Molecular Microbiology
Develop specialist molecular microbiology expertise to tackle global infectious disease challenges.
You can choose to study this course part-time, and start in September or January. The course durations vary slightly: 2 years (September starts) or 28 months (January starts). Course content and modules remain the same.
in the region for postgraduates progressing into senior roles.
Source: Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026
Deepen your expertise in molecular microbiology with a strong focus on medical applications, infectious disease, and antimicrobial resistance. This research-led course will equip you with the advanced lab skills and scientific knowledge needed to tackle health challenges.
You’ll study with internationally recognised researchers and complete an independent project in an authentic microbiology lab setting. Gain experience in molecular diagnostics, the development of novel treatments, and the translation of lab research into clinical and commercial solutions.
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Course Director Dr Grisha Pirianov introduces our Master's courses in Advanced Biomedical Science, Applied Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Molecular Microbiology.
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![Dr Grisha Pirianov and two students using electronic equipment in the biomedical sciences lab]()
Course Director Dr Grisha Pirianov introduces our Master's courses in Advanced Biomedical Science, Applied Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Molecular Microbiology.
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Study in Cambridge, a global hub for life sciences innovation and research
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Train in tissue culture and molecular labs and a specialist Category 2 lab
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Develop expertise in infectious disease, antimicrobial resistance and molecular diagnostics
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Get experience of translating lab research into clinical and commercial solutions
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Learn microbiology techniques from internationally-recognised researchers
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Prepare for careers in healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals or doctoral research
Study at an award-winning university
We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.
Careers
Gain specialist expertise for careers in microbiology research, healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and public health.
After graduation, you can pursue roles including microbiologist, research scientist, laboratory specialist or infection control professional, applying molecular approaches to understand microorganisms, investigate disease, and develop new diagnostics, treatments and preventative strategies.
You’ll also build key transferable skills like critical thinking, scientific writing, teamwork, and presenting that will boost your employability across science, product development, marketing and more.
You’ll benefit from guest speakers from public and private bioscience sectors' real-world career insights, helping you explore diverse opportunities in the field.
Teaching and modules
Explore the field of medical diagnostics, focusing on current techniques and issues such as antimicrobial resistance, drug delivery, and translational medicine.
Through lectures, seminars and critical discussions you’ll develop a strong knowledge base and critical appraisal skills, with flexibility to tailor topics to your interests.
You'll deepen your understanding of microbial pathogenicity, studying how microbes cause disease, their virulence mechanisms, and antibiotic resistance, supported by lab sessions, case studies and presentations that prepare you for careers in pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.
You’ll gain practical laboratory experience in molecular biology, microbiology, and bioinformatics, learning essential techniques such as DNA and protein analysis, cell culture, and data interpretation.
Your course culminates in a major independent research project, developing your ability to design experiments, analyse data, and communicate your findings to scientific and wider audiences.
Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.
- Contemporary Medical Diagnostics (30 credits)
- Microbial Pathogenicity (30 credits)
- Laboratory Techniques in Applied Bioscience (30 credits)
- Professional and Ethical Practice (15 credits)
- Research Methods and Preparation (15 credits)
- Masters Research Project (60 credits)
You can choose to study with us over two years (full-time), and take Professional Experience modules (2x project modules or 2x placement modules) in Year 2, with a Preparation for Professional Experience module in Year 1. You'll also complete your Postgraduate Major Project (60 credits) in Year 2.
- Professional Experience Biosciences Project 1 (60 credits) *
- Professional Experience Biosciences Project 2 (60 credits) *
- Professional Placement 1 (Life Sciences) (60 credits) *
- Professional Placement 2 (Life Sciences) (60 credits) *
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as MSc/MA students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students. For example if the MSc/MA course takes one year, you can expect to study over two years, though for some courses this may vary.
Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.
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Dr Grisha PirianovSenior Lecturer
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Professor Havovi ChichgerProfessor in Biomedical Science
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Dr Clett ErridgeSenior Lecturer
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Dr Caray A WalkerSenior Lecturer
Facilities
Enjoy a range of facilities designed to support your studies and career development.
Our Science Centre features four floors of labs and teaching space, with facilities for specialist tissue culture and microbiology laboratories and a modern, 300-seat lecture theatre.
You'll have extensive library and IT resources, and careers support through our Employability Service. After you graduate, you’ll have lifelong access to our Alumni Career Centre.
You can also access support, should you need it, with study skills, health and wellbeing, and more.