MRes Biotechnology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Nottingham Trent University

Program Overview

The MRes in Biotechnology at NTU gives you advanced, hands-on research training, helping you develop both professional laboratory skills and a strong understanding of modern molecular techniques. It’s perfect for graduates aiming to work in biotech companies, gain a competitive edge in research, or prepare for a PhD.

Curriculum Structure

You’ll spend your time balancing taught learning with real laboratory research:

In the first part of the course, Research Methods & Bioethics teaches you how to design experiments, analyse data critically, and navigate ethical issues in biotechnology. Alongside this, Special Topics in Biotechnology introduces you to the latest developments in the field, from molecular innovations to emerging commercial applications.
The core of your experience is your Research Project, where you’ll work closely with academic supervisors to design and execute an original research study in a professional lab environment, gaining practical skills and independent problem-solving experience.
To tailor the course to your interests, you can select an optional module such as Cell Culture & Antibody Technology, Molecular Biology, or Techniques in Macromolecular Analysis, giving you specialised hands-on experience in your chosen area.

Focus Areas: molecular biology, cell culture, antibody technology, macromolecular analysis, biotechnology research
Learning Outcomes: develop advanced research skills in biotech; design and carry out molecular biology research; analyse and interpret experimental data; understand biotechnological techniques and ethical considerations
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): prepares you for both industry roles and academic research, providing the skills to work in biotech companies or pursue a PhD
Reputation (Employability & Rankings): NTU’s science courses are research-informed, with graduates going on to careers as research scientists, lab technicians, and educators

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From the very start, you’ll be immersed in hands-on research, giving you the chance to design experiments, run them in professional laboratories, and gain practical experience with the same tools used in real biotech workplaces. You’ll build a portfolio of skills that demonstrates your ability to work independently, solve problems, and produce results — so you graduate not just with knowledge, but with evidence of your abilities. Practical learning is a central part of the course, including:

Laboratories & Facilities
- Access to state-of-the-art labs for immunology, cell-based therapy, biomaterials science, pharmacology, and toxicology.
- Large teaching labs equipped for supervised research projects, allowing for collaborative experiments.
- Full computing and library facilities to support research and data analysis.
Software & Digital Tools
- Training in data analysis and bioinformatics software to manage and interpret your experimental results.
- Support through digital platforms to help with experimental planning and scientific reporting.
Major Research Project & Skills Portfolio
- Undertake an extensive Research Project, designing and executing experiments, analysing data, and preparing your thesis.
- Maintain a Skills Portfolio to showcase all laboratory techniques and research skills developed during the course, giving you tangible evidence for future employers.
Teamwork, Professional Development & Entrepreneurship
- Engage in workshops, presentations, and discussion groups, sharing ideas with peers and tutors.
- Optional modules introduce enterprise and commercial aspects of biotechnology, showing how research translates into real-world applications.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the MRes in Biotechnology at NTU equips you with hands-on research experience and professional laboratory skills, making you highly attractive to employers and academic programmes alike. You could step directly into roles such as Research Scientist, Lab Technician, Biotech R&D Associate, or even pursue an academic path as a PhD candidate. The course prepares you to confidently contribute to both industrial and research environments.

Here’s how NTU supports your career journey and what you can expect after graduation:

University Careers Support
- Personalized guidance from NTU’s Careers Service, including CV advice, interview preparation, and networking support.
- Opportunities to connect with industry professionals and gain insight into real-world biotech roles.
Industry & Research Opportunities
- Graduates are well-positioned for work in biotechnology companies, research institutes, and laboratories focused on applied biotechnology.
- Professional-level research training ensures you stand out when applying for competitive positions.
Long-Term Value
- The research-based nature of the course provides publishable experience and a strong skills portfolio, making you attractive to employers and PhD programmes alike.
- Hands-on lab techniques and independent project management demonstrate your ability to deliver results in professional settings.
Graduation Outcomes
- Alumni commonly move into research scientist roles, laboratory technician positions, or pursue academic careers.
- Many also continue onto PhD programmes, using their MRes research project as a strong foundation for further study.

Further Academic Progression:

You could continue to a PhD in biotechnology, molecular biology, or a related field, leveraging the experience and skills gained during your MRes research project.
Alternatively, the course equips you for further professional development in industrial R&D, science consultancy, or teaching, giving you flexible pathways in both academia and industry.