Medical Biochemistry with Research Placement BSc(Hons)

On this course, you won’t just be sitting in lectures — you’ll be in the lab, working with real samples, learning modern techniques, and building the kind of research skills that employers and postgraduate programmes look for. From the very start, you’ll get hands-on with specialist equipment in brand-new science facilities, and by the time you graduate, you’ll have completed a full research placement, giving you the confidence and experience to step into the professional world.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Cutting-edge labs and facilities

  • Learn in the University’s £18.2 million purpose-built science building, equipped with specialist labs for biochemistry, molecular biology, and clinical science.

  • Access refurbished research spaces like the Joseph Priestley Building and the Page Labs, where students and staff carry out industry-level projects.

  • Use professional-standard instruments for spectroscopy, DNA/RNA analysis, and pathology testing.

• Practical learning built into your modules

  • Explore real clinical case studies in Practical Skills in Clinical Pathology and Biochemistry.

  • Get hands-on experience with PCR, gel electrophoresis, bacterial transformation, and microscopy in molecular biology labs.

  • Develop your confidence with scientific data, using spreadsheets, statistics packages, and the University’s research databases.

• Working as part of a team

  • In Year 2, you’ll take on a group project, analysing and presenting real data with your classmates — a great way to sharpen your teamwork and communication skills.

  • In your final year, you’ll design and carry out your own independent research project, from forming a hypothesis right through to presenting your findings.

• The Research Placement Year

  • A standout feature of this course is the compulsory research placement after Year 2. You’ll spend a year working in a real research environment, either within the University’s own labs or at an external organisation in the UK or overseas.

  • Previous students have gained experience at hospitals, biotech companies, and international universities — a fantastic way to build your CV and professional network before you even graduate.

• Support and professional recognition

  • The course is advanced accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, adding extra weight to your degree.

  • You’ll have full access to the University library, digital resources, and the Global Professional Award programme, which develops your wider career skills alongside your science training.

Graduates from this course leave ready to step straight into the world of healthcare, research, and biotechnology. With your hands-on experience and research skills, you could find yourself in roles such as:

• Clinical Biochemist – analysing patient samples and contributing to healthcare diagnostics.

• Pharmaceutical Researcher – developing new drugs and treatments in the lab.

• Medical Laboratory Technician – working in hospitals or private labs, running key tests.

• Healthcare Data Analyst – using scientific data to improve patient care and medical research.

Here’s how the University supports you in making these opportunities a reality:

• Career Support: The University’s career services help with CVs, interview prep, job applications, and networking, so you’re ready to land your first role after graduation.

• Industry Partnerships: Work experience and placements are offered through links with hospitals, research labs, and pharmaceutical companies, helping you gain real-world insight and contacts.

• Professional Recognition: The degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, which adds weight to your qualification and opens doors to professional memberships.

• Graduate Success: Around 90% of bioscience graduates from Huddersfield are either working or pursuing further study within 15 months of finishing, giving you confidence in your future prospects.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, you have plenty of ways to keep learning and advancing:

• Postgraduate Study: Go on to a Master’s or PhD in areas like Clinical Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine, or Pharmaceutical Sciences.

• Professional Development: Take advantage of courses and training offered by professional bodies such as the Royal Society of Biology.

• Teaching or Research: Explore careers in academia or education, combining research with teaching roles.

With the University’s strong industry links and excellent academic support, you’ll leave well-prepared to shape a successful career or continue your studies.