Our Students and Alumni
Each pathway in the MPhil in Biological Sciences brings together approximately 8 - 16 students every year, from a range of career and academic backgrounds. Our talented student cohort enrich the learning environment, while fostering a collaborative and supportive research community.
Our students come from a range of backgrounds and nationalities from all around the world. We have had over 200 students on the course from 36 different countries.
Our alumni pursue diverse and successful career paths. While many choose to continue their academic journeys by undertaking a PhD, our alumni also pursue successful careers in fields such as industry, teaching, research support roles, medicine, and even law!
As part of your experience at Cambridge, we will invite you to join our MPhil in Biological Sciences Alumni network. This network provides an excellent platform to stay connected with out community, share your career journey, and expand your professional network.
What our students say
The MPhil in Biological Sciences (Developmental Biology) has been a truly enriching experience. I highly recommend this programme to undergraduate students who are uncertain about committing to a PhD but have been considering it. The blend of theoretical discussions on developmental biology, lectures introducing most up-to-date methodologies, and a lab-based project offers well-rounded training. It sharpens your analytical thinking and critical evaluation skills, helping you understand how and when to apply different techniques. Importantly, it provides a valuable insight into what it's like to work independently in this scientific field.
I also recommend this programme to students like me, who may not have a background in developmental biology but are deeply interested in it. The core course, combined with opportunities to attend conferences, makes learning about various aspects of developmental biology both accessible and engaging.
Sofia Beltrame, Developmental Biology Pathway, 2023-2024
The Biomolecular Science pathway has offered an exceptional experience from beginning to end, so far surpassing my expectations for the MPhil. It provided a broad array of research projects to select from, alongside numerous opportunities for exploring and enhancing my scientific skills and interests. The sessions covered critical fields in fundamental biology, including gene expressions, bioactive lipids, and cutting-edge areas such as AI-driven innovations in drug discovery. Thought leaders from both Cambridge and beyond were invited to share insights into the latest developments and challenges. Additionally, we benefited immensely from sessions focussed on research methods, including gene editing, advanced imaging, and the application of 'omics' technologies. These experiences have equipped me with a comprehensive understanding and broad perspective on the current landscape of molecular biology and its latest innovations.
I felt exceptionally supported in my personal and professional growth. One of the highlights for me was the interactive nature of the sessions, which moved away from the traditional undergraduate lecture format. Working in groups was particularly engaging, and I learned a lot from the peers on my cohort. I would highly recommend this MPhil to anyone looking to advance their career in the biological sciences!
Roy Kurtzbard, Biomolecular Science Pathway, 2023-2024
My journey through this course has been incredibly enriching. Immersed in a lab for most of the time, I delved into the mechanisms of how bacterial lipopeptides induce inflammasome activation. The lab offers abundant opportunities to engage with cutting-edge techniques such as confocal microscopy and mass spectrometry. Collaboration with fellow postdocs in the lab and regular discussions with my supervisor is always a great joy.
Moreover, the weekly workshops and journal clubs are invaluable, broadening my understanding of diverse topics such as structural biology, biophysics and organoids, and sharpening my presentation skills. The bioinformatics sessions also provide a helpful refresher on core statistics analysis applied to research.
Amidst Cambridge's tranquil surroundings, I often find solace in the libraries, perfect places for focused study. Overall, I am grateful for the comprehensive learning experience and supportive community here.
Zhenyi Gu, Infection Biology and Molecular Immunology Pathway, 2023-2024
Going into the programme, I did not expect it to be as multidisciplinary as it is. The taught material ranged from content on crop improvement and sustainable agriculture to statistics and programming. Exposure to such a curriculum has not only broadened my skillset, but also my idea of what a crop scientist is, or can be. Moreover, I was surprised by the diverse range of research projects available to choose from. I found a project that suited my interests while also aligning with where I hope to take my career.
Although the workload has been challenging at time, there have been many avenues of support available to keep it manageable. I have thoroughly enjoyed the combination of working both in the lab and the greenhouse, and feel adequately prepared for the next stage of my career.
Claire Matsika, Crop Science Pathway, 2024-2025
I have really loved studying on the Cell Science course. The content is really interesting and the multi-departmental teaching helps cover cell biology as a whole. The taught sessions are great - the classes are interactive and drive collaboration with other students. Getting to learn about fascinating topics and techniques beyond what you are working on in the lab, direct from those at the forefront of such research, has been key in creating a well-rounded approach to cell biology. Getting to be a part of the research community and the opportunities both within and beyond the course here at Cambridge truly make this an exceptional opportunity. I pursued this course hoping to continue onto a career in academia but first wanting to explore exactly where my interests lie and to build my confidence in the lab, and this MPhil has helped me do just that!
Hannah Baker, Cell Science Pathway, 2023-2024
