BSc Molecular and Cellular Biology

At Aberdeen, this isn’t just a degree you study from textbooks — you’ll actually get to live the science in the lab. From your very first year, you’ll be working hands-on with modern molecular biology equipment, running experiments, and learning the same techniques that professional researchers use. By the time you reach your final year, you’ll be ready to take on your own independent research project, spending 10 weeks working full-time in one of the University’s research labs.

To give you a sense of what that looks like in practice, here are some of the facilities and opportunities you’ll have access to:

• Institute of Medical Sciences labs – fully equipped teaching and research laboratories where you’ll learn core molecular and cellular biology techniques.

• qPCR Facility – get hands-on experience with cutting-edge DNA analysis and quantification methods.

• Centre for Genome-Enabled Biology and Medicine (CGEBM) – access to advanced genomics, sequencing, and bioinformatics resources.

• Iain Fraser Cytometry Centre (IFCC) – specialist equipment for single-cell analysis and sorting.

• Science Teaching Hub – a brand-new facility with flexible lab spaces and research-grade tools designed for teaching practical science.

• Final-year research project – a 10-week, full-time project in an active research lab or partner institute where you’ll tackle real scientific questions.

• Group projects and workshops – regular teamwork-based activities in modules like Molecular Biology of the Cell, helping you build collaboration and data interpretation skills.

• Computational tools and software – training in modern digital analysis methods for working with genome and sequence data.

Graduates from this programme often go on to exciting roles in research, healthcare, biotech, or diagnostics. Many find themselves working as Laboratory Technicians, Research Associates, Genetic Counsellors, or Diagnostic Laboratory Scientists. With hands-on experience from your labs and final-year project, you’ll leave Aberdeen ready to step straight into the workplace or continue your studies:

• Careers Support: Aberdeen’s Careers Service will help you from day one, offering guidance on CVs, interviews, networking opportunities, and employer connections — including links through your research project.

• Employment and Salary: Biosciences graduates from Aberdeen typically earn around £24,000 within the first 15 months after graduation, with potential to grow as you gain experience.

• Industry Partnerships: Your final-year project often takes place in University labs or partner research institutes, giving you hands-on experience and connections in the field.

• Accreditation and Recognition: While the degree itself isn’t tied to a specific professional registration, it’s highly regarded in the biomedical sciences sector and provides a strong foundation for further qualifications.

• Graduation Outcomes: Many students continue to PhD programmes, while others enter diagnostic labs, biotech companies, healthcare roles, government science departments, or regulatory bodies.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc, you can take your studies further with a Master’s (MSc) in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Bioinformatics, or Biomedical Sciences. If research excites you, a PhD is a natural next step — and your honours project will give you a solid foundation. Alternatively, you could specialise through professional or conversion courses in areas like genetic counselling, forensic science, or regulatory affairs.