Cancer Technology (MRes)

Program Overview

The MRes in Cancer Technology will equip you with skills to address tomorrow’s challenges in cancer using state-of-the-art technologies and physical sciences/mathematical approaches.

This course embodies a multi-disciplinary approach that:

Provides a critical understanding of the fundamentals of cancer progression and current challenges in cancer management

Enables students to apply their knowledge of engineering, physics, and mathematics to solving challenges in cancer through a nine-month cross-disciplinary research project

Develops research and analytical skills related to bioengineering in cancer and effectively communicate results through oral and written scientific formats

Trains students to effectively communicate with oncologists, cancer biologists, clinicians, and researchers

Prepare students for demanding careers or Ph.D. programs at the interface of cancer and bioengineering

What will you study?

The 12-month MRes Cancer Technology programme incorporates taught components primarily delivered in the first term followed by the Cancer Technology Research Project in the remaining terms. 

Taught element

Four taught modules to contribute approximately 17% to the overall degree:

Bioengineering Approaches to Cancer (33%)

Provides a foundation in cancer biology from an engineering standpoint. Clinical challenges and future research opportunities that involve biophysical, mathematical, and technological approaches will be highlighted. 

Frontiers in Cancer Technology Research (33%)

Introduces students to diverse engineering and physical sciences strategies that can be used to advance our clinical management of cancer and our understanding of the disease. Students will also be involved in hands-on practical laboratory training. 

Computational and Statistical Methods for Research (33%)

Covers the basics of python programming and statistical methods for the analysis of experimental findings. 

Topics in Cancer Engineering (Pass/Fail)

Students choose level 7 modules offered by the department to attend based on relevance and interests. 

Research element

The Cancer Technology Research Project is the core component of the MRes and provides an opportunity for students to advance cutting-edge research through projects co-supervised by two academics - one from a cancer specialty and another from an engineering/mathematics/physical sciences background. These intensive multi-disciplinary research projects will exceptionally prepare students for demanding careers. 

There are four assessed components:

Planning for Research (14%, submitted at the start of spring term)

Research project:

Poster presentation (13%, due end of summer term)

Thesis (60%, due early September)

Oral exam (13%, due mid-late September)