Molecular Biology and Pathology of Viruses (Virology) - MSc
At a glance...
How to apply
For further information:
See the Virology World website.
This MSc course offers an integrated approach to the understanding of the nature of viruses and their role in disease pathogenesis, with an emphasis on the understanding of these processes at the molecular level.
Topics covered
- Introductory Core Lecture Programme
- Virus Architecture and Virus Interactions with Cells
- Virus Genomes, Gene Expression and Replication
- Host Responses to Virus Infection
- Diagnosis, Vaccines and Therapies
- Epidemiology, Transmission and Evolution of Viruses
Course Structure
The course is comprised of two parts, a taught component which is given over the first two terms (approximately 5 months) and a full-time laboratory based research project (7 months) which is carried out over the remainder of the session. The taught component is comprised of lectures, laboratory practical’s, tutorials and student presentations and covers the most important aspects of viruses and viral diseases under the 6 topic headings.
Career prospects
This course should provide excellent training for students who wish to pursue a career in academic or industrial research and in particular it will provide a solid foundation for those who intend to go on to study for a PhD.
Background information
Recent advances have led to the identification of a number of viruses which are important agents of disease e.g. human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Much of this progress has come about through the application of the techniques of molecular biology to the identification and characterisation of these viruses. This in turn, has led to the prospects of new therapies being developed against these and many other important pathogenic viruses. There is also a growing concern that viruses may play a role in a number of other (particularly chronic) diseases. In addition there is the threat of new diseases due to the emergence of novel viruses or virus-like agents.
Imperial College Faculty of Medicine has a number of first rate research groups with a wide range of expertise in human pathogenic viruses including: hepatitis viruses (especially HBV and HCV), retroviruses (including HIV and HTLV-1), respiratory syncytial virus, poxviruses, Epstein- Barr virus and human papilloma viruses. Most of the teaching on the MSc in The Molecular Biology and Pathology of Viruses is carried out by members of these research groups. In October 2000, a new Institute for Infectious Diseases (The Wright-Fleming Institute), was formed by these groups on the St Mary's Campus. This now provides an even greater focus for research on human viral pathogens at Imperial College and excellent opportunities for student research projects.
Imperial College works closely with employers and industry, including Industrial Advisory Panels to design Master’s courses which provide graduates with technical knowledge, expertise and transferable skills and to encourage students to take internships and placements. All Master’s courses are designed with employer needs in mind with some Master’s courses accredited by Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies. Most Master’s courses offer an opportunity to carry out research projects in industry.
