About Mres Biosciences in Aberystwyth University

This course makes an ideal stepping-stone for those considering PhD or company-based research and provides an opportunity for you to explore your interest in the biosciences in depth while showing a commitment to a research-focused career. Our course is flexible, allowing you to explore and specialise in an area of biology that fascinates you with the personalised support of a supervisor. With over 200 members of staff, the breadth of research and expertise in the institute means that you can undertake research in any one of the many areas of specialisation including, zoology, plant breeding, microbiology, bioinformatics, animal or equine science, marine biology and ecology.

• IBERS has been judged world leading in areas such as zoology, grassland science, biochemistry, animal science, marine biology, microbiology, plant biology and ecology. 
• No matter which area of Biology you specialise in, you will be working alongside some of the world’s biggest names in their respective fields. 
• We have excellent research facilities including aquariums (marine, freshwater, tropical), a bioinformatics hub, ion-torrent sequencers, and extensive glass house facilities. 
• We operate several farms and own significant tracts of natural woodland, while our coastal location close to several nature reserves and national parks offers unique opportunities for a broad range of bioscience research. 
• Opportunity to work within research teams with your supervisor, research staff and other postgraduate students. 
• This course is suitable for students who are not yet ready or do not wish to begin a PhD but who would like to develop their research skills first. It is also suitable for students that would like to combine research with the support of a taught element of a postgraduate course. 
• In the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014) review of university achievement, 78% of our research was classed as world-leading or internationally excellent, and 76% of our work was recognised as having a practical applied impact on society at a world-class level. Aberystwyth is a safe, vibrant, and friendly town that comprises a multinational community.

Careers

This course is an ideal stepping-stone for those considering a PhD or company-based research.

Graduates of this course have gone on to work as research assistants or have progressed to doctoral study/PhDs.

Skills

Throughout this course you will:

• Develop strong data collection/analysis, fieldwork and laboratory skills

• Enhance your scientific communication and team work skills

• Write for a range of audiences including academics and the wider public

• Enhance your analytical abilities and problem solving skills 

• Develop study and research skills

• Develop and sustain a self-initiated programme of study underpinned by good time management skills

• Work effectively and independently

• Enhance your project management skills to deliver a demanding combination of research, analysis, communication and presentation

Academic qualification equivalents:

• We normally accept a minimum of 55% or GCPA 6.0 in a relevant Bachelors degree from a recognised institution. Non-graduates with at least 2 years of relevant full-time work experience are welcome to apply. In this case your application will be assessed on an individual basis.

English language requirements (one of the below):

• IELTS          :         6.5 with minimum 5.5 in each component 
• TOEFL         :        93 with minimum component scores:Reading 18, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 17.
• PTE             :        62 with minimum scores of 51 in each component 

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