Course overview

Advance your scientific career with the MRes Biosciences at Aston University, UK - a research-intensive master’s degree that prepares you for academic, clinical, or industrial careers in biological sciences.

This programme offers a wide range of research specialisms, including:

Cellular and molecular biology
Ageing and age-related disease
Immunology
Biotechnology
Stem cells and tissue engineering
Microbiology

This course equips you with both the theoretical foundation and practical laboratory skills needed for a career in scientific research. Whether your goal is to pursue a PhD, work in biotechnology, or contribute to a research-intensive organisation, you’ll gain the expertise to succeed.

You’ll explore the core principles, recent developments, and emerging trends within your chosen field of specialisation, alongside a substantial independent research project, giving you the opportunity to:

Deepen your understanding of cutting-edge scientific developments.
Build advanced skills in laboratory research, data analysis, and critical thinking.
Design and carry out experiments, and critically evaluate scientific literature.

Please note: as part of your application to the MRes Biosciences programme at Aston University, you’ll need to choose an extended research project that aligns with your interests, a full list can be viewed below.

Explore the full list of available research projects

A biosciences-related degree is a mandatory entry requirement for this programme. Your application must also include a detailed research proposal to be considered.

Please see our How to Apply section below

If you’re unsure whether your qualifications meet our entry requirements, please contact out Postgraduate Admissions team.

"Having undertaken my undergraduate degree in biology here, I knew Aston well, and I really liked the modules taught and that we get a lot of contact time with our lecturers. I then chose the MRes as I found I really enjoyed working in a laboratory setting where I could apply the knowledge I learned into my research."

Jaspreet Bansal

Biosciences MRes graduate, MIBTP PhD student

Why Biosciences at Aston University?

Internationally recognise research

100% of the Health and Life Sciences research environment has been ranked as being at least internationally excellent, with 50% being world-leading

Research active staff

Study alongside active researcher staff from a broad range of specialist biosciences areas.

Independent research project

Hands-on research experience via the completion of an extended dissertation project on a specific topic within biosciences.

Biosciences MRes at Aston University

Ross Worledge shares his experience of the Biosciences MRes course at MSc at Aston University

Course description

Biosciences MRes

Our Biosciences MRes at Aston will equip you with the skills, insights, and confidence required to become an outstanding bioscientist, well-equipped to advance research in the field.

What we will provide
First-class teaching in the UK's second-largest city, delivered by a diverse array of staff who will inspire and excite you,; fantastic facilities that will bring your course to life through hands-on, practical experience; and years of close industry collaboration that is harnessed to provide you with learning based on real-world needs.

What you will provide
It is important you learn how to adapt a growth mindset to your studies - understanding that intelligence and success come from applying yourself. You must be able to demonstrate critical thinking and have ambition and drive to excel.

What skills we teach
From the start of the Biosciences MRes at Aston you will receive training in essential laboratory skills, and develop your research and communication skills. You will also study a series of 15 credit modules that will assist in the development of essential skills for planning, implementing and communicating research.

Career prospects
Our Biosciences MRes is valued by some of the best-known companies in the world. Recent graduates have successfully secured careers in a research-focused role in the industry, or undertaken further research in the form of a PhD at Aston or another leading university.

How you will learn

Our teaching is modern, practical, and research-led, bridging theory with real-world application. Throughout the course, you’ll apply your knowledge in laboratory and project settings, building the skills and confidence needed for a successful career in research or industry.

Learning is delivered through a blend of:
Lectures, seminars, and tutorials
Laboratory work and practical sessions
Online learning activities
Independent study and guided reflection on feedback

This mix of teaching methods supports both your academic development and your professional growth.

What you will learn

From the very start of the MRes Biosciences at Aston University, you will develop essential laboratory techniques alongside core skills in research design and scientific communication. The taught modules provide a solid foundation to prepare you for the 120-credit extended research project, which is the central focus of the programme and your year of study.

Facilities

State-of-the-art facilities for biosciences research

As an MRes Biosciences student at Aston University, you’ll benefit from access to specialist laboratories and advanced equipment that reflect the hands-on nature of the course. Guided by academic experts, technicians, and industry professionals, you’ll gain practical experience in an environment designed to prepare you for real-world research. Our facilities include:

Extensive laboratories - equipped with industry-standard technologies to support your learning and research.
Advanced microscopy - including light, electron, confocal, and fluorescence microscopes for detailed cell, tissue, and organism analysis.
Tissue culture facilities - with biosafety cabinets, CO₂ incubators, and sterile workspaces for advanced cell maintenance and experimentation.
Bioreactor cell culture systems - enabling controlled growth of cells, microorganisms, and biomolecule production.
Flow cytometry instruments - for analysing and sorting individual cells by size, shape, and fluorescence.

These facilities ensure you gain the practical expertise and technical confidence needed for a successful career in bioscience research, healthcare, or industry.

Aston University learning resources

Refurbished lecture theatres, seminar rooms, and computer labs, providing an excellent environment for interactive learning and research.
Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) - your hub for study, revision, and assessment, with access to a wide range of study materials, scientific journals, e-journals, and specialist databases.
Aston University Library - a fully refurbished, digitally enabled space, open 24/7 at key times of the year. The library offers a variety of study spaces, access to academic support advisors, and an extensive collection of course texts in both print and electronic formats.

These facilities ensure you have the tools, resources, and support needed to succeed in your studies and research.

Bioscientists looks at red coloured petri dish wearing purple lab gloves

Biology for a Better Tomorrow

Biology for a Better Tomorrow at Aston University highlights the vital role of biosciences in tackling sustainability challenges through stories of innovative research and real-world solutions.

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Course objectives

Provide you with the opportunities to realise your academic potential through a range of learning experiences.
Encourages you, through a practical approach, to have a passion for biosciences and an enthusiasm for learning.
Provide you with the means to carry out an extensive laboratory-based project on a specific topic within the biosciences.
Provide advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in a particular area within the field of biosciences research
Provide training in biosciences laboratory skills.
Provide awareness of good laboratory practise and safety issues in a modern research laboratory.
Provide an opportunity to develop a range of transferable skills (written and oral communication, time management, project management, team working, data collection and analysis).
Enable you to develop an informed and critical appreciation of the scientific developments within a particular area of biosciences research.
Produce graduates with the necessary skills to proceed to a more specialist higher degree at PhD level or a career in biosciences research.

Modules

Taught stage modules

In the taught stage, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Essential Laboratory Skills - Develop practical laboratory skills, including aseptic techniques, sample preparation, data collection, and analysis. Gain hands-on experience with a wide range of laboratory methodologies, instrumentation, and experimental protocols relevant to your field of study, ensuring you are proficient in conducting experiments and generating reliable data in a laboratory setting.	15
Professional Development and Research Communication Skills - Hone your written and oral communication skills, enabling you to articulate research findings, present complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences, as well as interacting with professionals from industry, academia and health care providers.	15
Research Competency Assessment - Undergo a comprehensive evaluation of your research competencies, including literature review skills, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. This module will provide you with valuable feedback and guidance to ensure you are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in your research project.	15
Postgraduate Research Skills - Acquire the essential skills required for conducting advanced research in biosciences. This module covers a wide range of topics, including research ethics, project planning, data management, statistical analysis, and scientific writing. You will explore best practices for conducting literature reviews, formulating research questions, designing experiments, and analysing and interpreting data. Through practical exercises and workshops, you will gain hands-on experience in research tools, software, and methodologies commonly used in the field of biosciences. This module serves as a vital stepping stone towards independent and impactful research.	15
Total	60

Dissertation stage modules

In the dissertation stage, you will study the following core module:

Module Title	Credits
Research Project - The Research Project module represents the pinnacle of the MRes Biosciences programme. Under the guidance of a supervisor, you will engage in an original research project that aligns with your interests and chosen specialisation within the field of biosciences. This module provides you with an opportunity to apply the knowledge, skills, and techniques acquired throughout the programme, in order to address a specific research question or problem. You will design and execute experiments, collect and analyse data, interpret results, and draw meaningful conclusions. You will also critically evaluate existing literature, identify gaps in knowledge, and contribute new insights into your field of study. Through regular progress reports, presentations, and written documentation, you will showcase your research findings, and demonstrate your ability to conduct independent, rigorous, and impactful scientific research.	120
Total	120

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

Student holding laptop in student study space

Gain the advantage

The Aston Global Advantage (AGA) is fully embedded into all postgraduate Health & Life Sciences programmes (of 180 credits), meaning you develop professional skills, teamwork abilities and real‑world experience as an integral part of your course.

Because each programme tailors the AGA to its discipline, you learn through authentic activities relevant to your field. This integrated approach enhances your readiness for a rapidly changing global workplace by helping you apply knowledge in practice, build confidence, and develop the competencies employers value most.

Aston Global Advantage

Entry requirements

A UK upper second-class (2:1) honours degree or recognised international equivalent from a recognised university in a biological, biomedical or biochemistry-based subject, or a related field. See international student information below for international equivalent information.

The information contained on this web page details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications. Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with our admissions team at pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with our academic admissions tutor.

How to apply

Project selection

As part of your application to the MRes Biosciences programme at Aston University, you’ll need to choose an extended research project that aligns with your interests. Please include your preferred project in the personal statement section of your application.

Explore the full list of available research projects

We’re looking for applicants who can demonstrate a good fundamental knowledge of the area they wish to study within their written application and during the interview process.

Interviews

Successful applicants will be required to attend an online interview as part of the application process.

Apply now

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students to many of our postgraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

For details of equivalent qualifications in your country, use our area pages below:

English language requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

How to apply

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Pathway Programmes

If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.

Masters foundation programmes

If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.

Speak to our Admissions Team

If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:

Email: pgadmissions@aston.ac.uk

Call: 0121 204 3200 (Please note this line is open Monday-Friday between 9.30am-4.30pm)

Fees

Course fees

UK students
(2026/27)

Annual tuition fees:

£11,200

International students
(2026/27)

Annual tuition fees:

£24,800

The duration of this programme is set out at the top of this course page and you will be responsible for the payment of an annual tuition fee in each of these years. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees annually in accordance with its Terms and Conditions. This means that your total tuition fee may be higher than stated above, but your total tuition fee will never increase by more than 6% year on year. An increase in fees will allow the University to cover the increased costs of delivering the course and ensure it is able to maintain high standards of education and facilities.

More information on fees

The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.

Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.

More information on fees

Assessment

The Biosciences MRes curriculum uses a variety of assessment methods aligned with national educational standards (FHEQ). You will be assessed through a balanced mix of class tests, individual and group coursework, projects, presentations, and practical assessments. This approach ensures you can demonstrate your knowledge, research abilities, and communication skills in ways that reflect real-world scientific practice.

Career prospects

On graduation, you will leave with a strong portfolio of practical laboratory techniques, gained through extensive hands-on research. You’ll also develop transferable skills in teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific communication - all highly valued by employers and research organisations.

These experiences prepare you for research-focused careers in industry, healthcare, or biotechnology, as well as further study such as a PhD at Aston University or other leading institutions.

Throughout the programme, you will benefit from specialist guidance from Aston’s expert biosciences academics and dedicated careers service, helping you plan and take the next step in your research journey.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni services

Frequently asked questions

Why study Biosciences MRes at Aston?

You’ll learn from leading academics, train in specialist facilities, and complete an extended research project that develops both your expertise and independence. This combination ensures you graduate ready for a research-focused career in industry or to progress to a PhD at Aston or another leading university.

How does the extended research project work?

Your extended research project is the central focus of the MRes Biosciences, worth 120 credits and forming the majority of your year of study. This is supported by a series of 15-credit taught modules designed to strengthen your laboratory expertise and research communication skills.

Each year, a wide variety of research projects are available. As part of your application, you will need to indicate which project you would like to pursue and explain your choice in the personal statement section of the form.

What facilities will be available?

Aston University is home to an extensive bioscience department that includes a combination of student practical and research laboratories. All spaces are well-appointed and furnished with a variety of relevant equipment designed to ensure our students receive the very best training experience.

Why should international students choose Aston University?

Study at Aston University and you will be part of a multi-cultural community located at the heart of the dynamic city of Birmingham. Our courses are practical, inspired by industry and many have internationally recognised accreditations. Renowned for our employability prospects and connections to business and industry, we provide outstanding career support, advice and placement opportunities.

For those interested in working in the UK after they have graduated, the UK Government has created a new post-study work visa.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham