MSci Biochemistry with Integrated Master's

This is how students on Keele's Biochemistry with Integrated Master's (MSci) gain hands-on, practical experience and real-world skills through outstanding facilities, state-of-the-art equipment, and intensive learning opportunities:

• Students begin using techniques from Day 1 in Keele's Central Science Laboratories, which contain research-grade equipment—such as state-of-the-art spectrometers and chromatography systems—for molecular biology, protein chemistry, and enzyme kinetics. They are thoroughly trained in digital technology, including bioinformatics software and data analysis suites, readying them for data-intensive experimental pipelines.
• In your third and fourth years, you will Organize and undertake an individual MSci research project—from hypothesis and grant application to experimentation and reporting final results—supervised by, and in collaboration with, staff and faculty research teams.
• Participate in research-grade seminars from world-leading scientists, refining your ability to critically read primary literature.
• Give presentation of project results both in written (research article style) and verbally/poster formats at an MSci Research Conference.
• Proceeding on to specific experiential learning highlights:
• Laboratories & Equipment: Have state‑of‑the‑art laboratories with fluorescence microscopes, centrifuges, HPLC, mass spectrometers, PCR and gel‑electrophoresis rigs for protein and genetic research.
• Digital & Computational Tools: Learn bioinformatics software for DNA/protein sequence comparison, structure modelling and statistical data tools like R or Python.
• Group Projects & Workshops: Complete small‑group, problem‑based project and wet‑lab experiment work during Years 1 and 2, gaining teamwork and communication skills.
• Internships & Placement Opportunities: The option to take a placement year—organized by Keele Careers—during which you can apply for work in biotech, pharma, NHS labs, or academic research between Years 3 and 4.
• Research Seminars & Networking: Regular attendance at high-level seminars from visiting professionals in the fields of biotech, healthcare and academia, widening your professional network.
• Field & Site Visits: Regular educational site visits—e.g., to pharmaceutical manufacturing plants or research institutions—offered by staff (underpinning prior courses in related Life Sciences).
• Dedicated Research Facilities: Laboratory work within School of Life Sciences research laboratories, with dedicated access to state-of-the-art suites of molecular biology equipment and instrumentation areas—ideal for your MSci project.
• Library & Institute Facilities: Utilization of the 600-acre campus library, web-based journal collections (e.g. PubMed, Web of Science), and support by Keele's research institutes for inter-disciplinary expertise.

Graduates from this program leave with a strong foundation in biological sciences, ready to step into careers in research, healthcare, conservation, or biotechnology. Many find roles as laboratory scientists, ecological consultants, or science educators:

• University support for employment: The Careers and Employability Service at Manchester Metropolitan offers tailored advice, CV workshops, internship placements, and networking events to help students secure jobs in their field.

• Employment stats and salaries: A significant proportion of graduates move directly into professional roles, with starting salaries typically ranging from £22,000 to £30,000, depending on the sector.

• University–industry partnerships: The program benefits from strong links with local hospitals, research labs, and environmental organisations, providing students with real-world experience and work placements.

• Long-term accreditation value: The degree is recognised for its rigorous scientific training, giving credibility for professional roles in research, environmental management, and healthcare-related sectors.

• Graduation outcomes: Graduates often progress into roles such as laboratory technicians, ecological surveyors, conservation officers, or continue in scientific research.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can pursue postgraduate study, including Master’s degrees or professional qualifications in areas like molecular biology, ecology, biomedical sciences, or environmental management. This opens doors to research roles, higher-level consultancy, or teaching positions.