The one-year MSc course in Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement provides training for students wishing to undertake a further degree in plant molecular genetics, or pursue a career in plant breeding and crop improvement with professional guidance.
Study
The course focuses on plant molecular genetics and potential applications to crop improvement in the context of the 21st century. This is a unique opportunity to study this field of science in an environment of academic and research excellence with great exposure to the latest plant science breakthroughs.
Structure
In addition to studying core modules, you will undertake a six-month laboratory-based research project under the supervision of either a member of the School of Biological Sciences or a Senior Scientist at the John Innes Centre. You will be required to submit a dissertation and present a seminar on your specific research project.
Teaching
The course is run jointly by supportive teaching staff from the School of Biological Sciences at UEA, scientists from the John Innes Centre, which includes The Sainsbury Laboratory, and a number of prominent plant breeding and plant biotechnology companies within the UK. The John Innes Centre is one of the world's leading research institutes in plant genetics and crop improvement.
Employability
In addition to core modules, training also includes developing a number of key transferable skills. In recent years the career prospects for students with a postgraduate degree in Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement have been extremely promising, frequently leading to a PhD or employment within the plant breeding industry.