MRes Bioinformatics with Systems Biology

The course has a modular structure and operates under the Birkbeck Common Awards Scheme. In order to gain an MRes Bioinformatics with Systems Biology students must earn 180 credits through course work and a research project.

Students attend lectures, practical courses, assessments, and examinations from the MSc in Bioinformatics with Systems Biology.

Computational/ statistical areas (Group A)

Students must select 2 x 15-credit modules from a choice of 4:

• Biocomputing I, Biocomputing II, Data Management, Statistics

Biological areas (Group B)

Students must select 2 x 15-credit modules from a choice of 4:

• Molecular Structure, Sequence Analysis and Genomics, Structural Bioinformatics, Systems Biology

Other requirements

MRes students also participate in the Graduate Studies programme which includes such topics as how to present a talk, write a CV, write a paper, use library resources, time management and record keeping and applying for grants and jobs. A course on "the culture of science" including discussions of ethics, intellectual property rights, and career opportunities is also offered.

Literature review and oral presentation
[20% of the 120 credits available for this module]

The literature review and oral presentation are assessed together in term 2. Marking will be done according to the following criteria:

Please note that not all categories will apply to all dissertations

• Overall organisation and clarity of presentation
• Breadth and depth of background review - does the writing indicate a good understanding of the subject material?
• Clarity of explanation of methods
• Relevance and quality of illustrations - do they enhance the presentation?

Thesis and viva
[80% of the 120 credits available for this module]

The thesis and viva are assessed together in term 3 (September). Marking will be done according to the following criteria:

Please note that not all categories will apply to all theses

• Overall organisation and clarity of presentation
• Breadth and depth of background review - does the writing indicate a good understanding of the subject material?
• Clarity of explanation of methods
• Originality and thoroughness of research and/or analysis
• Relevance and quality of illustrations - do they enhance the presentation?
• Originality of discussion - are significant issues considered and are points well substantiated?

Students are required to pass the literature review and oral presentation component of the MRes in order to progress to the remainder of the research project and viva. Candidates who do not satisfy the Examiners will be required to re-submit the literature review and redo the oral presentation at the next suitable meeting of the Board of Examiners, and will not be able to complete the degree until the following year. Only one resubmission of each component is allowed.

Late submission of written work may result in the student having to wait until the following year to be examined and to complete the MRes degree. Late submissions may also incur a penalty with marks deducted.

• Pass: 50%
• Merit: 60%
• Distinction: 70%