Courses

A good first degree (2:1 or better) from a UK university or non-UK equivalent.

Applicants should indicate in the first line of their Personal Statement that they are applying for the MHD stream.  More details and how to apply can be found here.

The programme is aimed at: 

• Students with a biochemical, microbiological or biological background interested in pursuing further education in microbiome and nutrition in health and disease.
• Students with a biochemical, microbiological or biological background interested in understanding fundamental mechanisms behind disease processes and developing therapeutic targets. 
• Students with a clinical background interested in understanding microbiome in clinical research. 

Students will gain experience in applying technologically advanced approaches to biomedical questions. Individuals who successfully complete the course will have developed the ability to:

• Perform novel laboratory-based research and exercise critical scientific thought in the interpretation of results
• Undertake two research projects in line with the multidisciplinary culture of the Centre
• Demonstrate practical and intellectual dexterity in the research project elements
• Develop an appreciation of cutting-edge technologies discovering host-microbial communication and current understanding of this association in human health and disease by attending the taught course elements
• Be able to interpret and present scientific data
• Be able to interrogate relevant scientific literature and develop research plans
• Be able to write a grant application, through the taught grant-writing exercise common to all MRes streams
• Be able to write and defend research reports through writing, poster presentations and seminars
• Exercise a range of transferable skills by taking a minimum number of short courses taught through the Graduate School

A wide range of research projects is made available to students twice a year. The range of projects available to each student is determined by their stream. Students may have access from other streams, but have priority only on projects offered by their own stream.

“This stream offers a wide range of projects at the forefront of the exciting field of microbiome. Whether you’d prefer wet lab-based projects or computer-based projects, there is something for you. The course is well organised and is structured in a way for students to gain experience of real research in action with an appropriate dose of very useful lectures. The course organisers take students' welfare seriously and are very approachable whenever help is needed. I’d definitely recommend this course to anyone who is interested in this fascinating and expanding field of microbiome.” 
Abellona U (MHD stream 2015)

“My experience in the MHD stream had been challenging yet rewarding. The research projects not only taught me a variety of skills and techniques, it gave me the opportunity to be a part of leading research groups at Imperial College. While my supervisors gave me the support and guidance I needed, my opinions were respected and I was given enough freedom to develop myself as a scientist and direct the research towards my own interest. The lectures were conducted in small classes which made the sessions very interactive. The lecture topics were also well chosen and gave me a strong background to support my research. ”
Jessica Lin (MHD stream 2015)