The MPhil in Computational Biology course is aimed at introducing students in the biological, mathematical and physical sciences to quantitative aspects of modern biology and medicine, including bioinformatics. The course was developed by the Cambridge Computational Biology Institute (now C2D3 Computational Biology ) and is run by the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics .
The course is intended for mathematicians, computer scientists and others wishing to learn about the subject in preparation for a PhD course or a career in industry. It is also suitable for students with a first degree in biosciences as long as they have strong quantitative skills (which should be documented in the application).
Core modules include bioinformatics, scientific programming with R and genomics. All students joining this course are required to attend an introductory course in molecular biology (usually scheduled at the start of the academic year, just before formal lectures commence). Courses are delivered in association with several departments from across the University and neighbouring institutes. The course concludes with a three-month research project in a university or industrial laboratory.
The course combines taught lectures (October-April), followed by a research project (April-July). There are typically three full taught modules per term, each full module consists of 24 hours of lectures / labs.
Students undertake a mandatory research project (April to July) in either a university or industrial laboratory. The Department will compile a list of possible opportunities which students can discuss directly with the host laboratory. Where appropriate, students may request they organise their own placement for their research project, subject to the approval of the Course Directors.
The Course Directors submit a termly report on each student's progress following a short one-on-one meeting held towards the end of the first two terms and will receive termly reports. Students may be provided with feedback as an indication of progress.
A 15,000-word (maximum) report must be written to summarise the student's research project. An assessed oral presentation on this report must also be given.
Modules are typically assessed through individual or group coursework. Assignments may involve significant computational elements. Presentations on candidates’ work may be required as part of the assessment of submitted coursework.
Applicants for this course should have achieved a High II.i Honours Degree .
If your degree is not from the UK, please check International Qualifications to find the equivalent in your country.
The minimum requirement is a high II.i honours degree in biology, mathematics, physics, computer science or a related subject, or its equivalent
University Minimum Academic Requirements
Score : Grade A & B (overall score of 193, with no element lower than 185 plus a Language Centre assessment)
Score : Grade A, B, or C (with at least 200 with no element lower than 185).