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Qualification type
MRes

Infection, Microbiology and Microbiomes

Study mode
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Start date and application deadlines
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We've set the country or region your qualifications are from as United Kingdom.

How to apply
UK students

Apply for this course by:

There is no fee to apply for our courses.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions

Our application process

  1. Sign into the University of Liverpool Application Portal and start your application
  2. Submit your application
  3. We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  4. We'll email you when a decision has been made

Already a University of Liverpool student?

Apply faster with the quick apply form for current University of Liverpool students.

Need help applying?

Our how to apply pages provide further information about applying online for our taught postgraduate courses.

If you are unable to apply via our online form, or need further support, please contact the postgraduate enquiries team.

International students

Apply for this course by:

There is no fee to apply for our courses. However, once you’ve been made an offer to study with us you are required to pay a fee deposit.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Evidence of English Language proficiency (EU and international applicants only)
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions.

Our application process

  1. Sign into the University of Liverpool Application Portal and start your application
  2. Submit your application
  3. We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  4. We'll email you when a decision has been made

Already a University of Liverpool student?

Apply faster with the quick apply form for current University of Liverpool students.

Need help applying?

We provide further information about applying online.

If you are unable to apply via our online form, or need further support, please contact the postgraduate enquiries team.

Intercalating students

How you apply for an intercalated degree depends on whether you are studying medicine at the University of Liverpool, or at another institution. Follow the steps below to apply whichever way is right for you.

University of Liverpool students

  • Declare your interest in the course to the Intercalation Team by emailing intercal.mbchb@liverpool.ac.uk. The team will guide you through the internal application process.
  • Submit your application via email to the intercalation contact for your chosen course.

External applicants

What you'll need:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Evidence of English Language proficiency (EU and international applicants only)
  • Personal statement (500 word limit) including why you want to study on this course and evidence of experience in this field.

Our application process:

  1. Contact your own university team to start the steps to suspend your studies for your intercalation year
  2. Sign into our online application portal and fill out the application form
  3. We'll email you to confirm your application has been submitted.
Combine this subject

With a combined degree, you can study two subjects as part of the same degree programme.

  • Choose from 30 subjects and over 300 combinations
  • Choose joint or major minor subjects
  • Adjust the weight of your subjects at the end of your first year
  • Same number of credits as single honours students
  • Same classes as single honours students
  • Appeal to a wide range of employers

Explore combined degrees for Biological and Biomedical Sciences courses

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About this course

Develop research expertise and cutting-edge skills to address global challenges including infectious diseases, AMR, and the rapidly evolving field of microbiomes, which is crucial for human, animal, and environmental health within the Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences.


Introduction

Equip yourself for a range of careers in academia, biotechnology, healthcare, and public health. Leverage Liverpool’s strength in One Health to play a pivotal role in shaping solutions for the future of global health and beyond.

This programme offers a unique opportunity to gain expertise to address and communicate complex global issues. Explore infection, microbiology and the role of microbiomes in health, disease and the environment. Benefit from world-class facilities, expert supervision, and a vibrant scientific community.

The programme includes Research Foundations, a 90-credit research project and specialized modules (60 credits). Choose a research project that aligns with your interests and collaborate with internationally recognized scientists, gaining hands-on experience with access to the Centre for Genomic Research (CGR) and the NERC Environmental Omics Facility (NEOF) and join the Microbiome Innovation Centre (MIC) and its active community of researchers.

Specialized modules can complement your research, allowing you to dive deeper into a range of topics and develop interdisciplinary skills in high demand across sectors. Graduates will be well-positioned to pursue competitive careers in biomedical and biological research, in academia, public sector agencies and leading pharmaceutical/biotech companies.


Who is this course for?

This master’s in research is for graduates from a Biomedical Sciences, Biological Sciences or Bioveterinary Sciences background who want to develop understanding and research skills across the fields of infection and disease, microbiology in health and the environment, microbiomes and their interplay from a One Health perspective. This MRes will equip students with the knowledge, experience and transferable skills necessary for them to transition to and be competitive in a number of careers. Individuals with interdisciplinary skills in infection, health and environmental microbiology, phage biology, bioinformatics and microbiomes, translation, communication and application of such research for societal good are in demand.


What you'll learn

  • Develop core skills in study design, research ethics and governance, and develop a research funding proposal
  • Develop communication strategies to engage different audiences in your research and gain practical experience in translating complex scientific ideas to non-expert audiences
  • Develop core principles of microbial diversity, community assembly and interactions, and microbiome function from a One Health perspective
  • Develop skills in critically evaluating issues associated with emerging infectious disease and pandemics
  • Develop skills in critically evaluating design and implementation of diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines
  • Theoretical and technical knowledge in sequence analysis, phylogenetics, and the modelling of proteins, and others
  • Coding skills to perform tasks in the biological sciences
  • Develop principal skills in presenting immunological interactions and responses
  • Knowledge, skills, and techniques for investigating and controlling global human and animal disease outbreaks
  • Develop understanding of models and data results
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Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Semester one

Compulsory:

  • Research Foundations (IVES703)
  • Microbiomes (IVES729)

Modules

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Semester two

Compulsory: IVES MRes Research Project (IVES704)

Modules

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Final project

Compulsory: IVES MRes Research Project (IVES704)

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Teaching and assessment

How you'll learn

Throughout this on campus programme, you will engage in a diverse range of teaching and learning methods designed to foster both individual and collaborative learning. Time-tabled teaching activities will include lectures, seminars, interactive workshops, group discussions, and case-based learning. The modules are structured to encourage active participation, enabling you to develop ideas, formulate hypotheses, and design strategies to address complex problems.

You will work both individually and in groups, tackling real-world challenges by applying critical thinking and problem-solving techniques. As part of your development, you will co-create a research proposal and engage in public outreach activities, with the opportunity to implement these.

Learning is supported by a range of resources available 24/7 on Canvas, our online learning platform, ensuring you have constant access to course materials. Additionally, you will have regular one-on-one meetings with your research supervisor, providing tailored support and ongoing feedback. These sessions will help refine your critical thinking, creativity, and scientific communication skills in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Your research project will be the cornerstone of the programme, offering you a comprehensive academic research experience. From planning and identifying training needs to executing and communicating your research findings, this project will provide hands-on experience in scientific inquiry. You will gain invaluable skills in research methodology, data analysis, and scientific writing, while also having the opportunity to present your findings to peers and professionals.

How you're assessed

The assessments within this programme aim to simulate real world challenges, reflecting tasks students will encounter within their professional careers. Students are assessed through a blended mix of coursework that includes scientific reports, conference presentations, developing public engagement resources, research grant proposals, data handling sessions and poster presentations, culminating in a research project report in the style of an academic paper which will include a visual abstract and an oral viva at the end of semester 3.

Liverpool Hallmarks

We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

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Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Study as an intercalated degree

Intercalation allows you take a break from your medical degree, usually after year 3 or 4, and study an additional qualification. Most intercalating students choose to study a master's degree. This gives you the opportunity to explore a subject of interest at an advanced level and acquire new skills and knowledge that will enhance and/or complement your medical degree.

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Your experience

This course is led by the Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences. The Institute integrates cutting-edge research in infectious diseases, veterinary science, ecology and evolution to benefit people, animals and ecosystems, nationally and globally. Their work addresses major societal One Health challenges, including emerging infectious diseases, food security, antimicrobial resistance and the impacts of environmental change. Research-led teaching provides exciting opportunities for students, who will form the next generation of researchers.

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Careers and employability

Graduates of the MRes in Infection, Microbiology, and Microbiomes will gain cutting-edge research expertise and specialized knowledge, unlocking exciting career opportunities. Beyond PhD training in academia or industry, you’ll be primed to become a sought-after candidate for roles in public sector agencies like the UK Health Security Agency, Animal and Plant Health Agency, and National Institute for Health Research, as well as non-governmental organizations and leading pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

Whether you’re pioneering groundbreaking scientific discoveries or shaping global health policy, this programme provides a solid foundation to propel you into a career dedicated to tackling the world’s most pressing global challenges.


Career support from day one to graduation and beyond

Career planning

Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.

From education to employment

We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.

Networking events

You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.

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My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)

Full-time place, per year - £5,006

International fees

Full-time place, per year - £31,250

Fees stated are for the academic year 2025/26. Research support fees: £3000 for a laboratory-based research projects and £1000 for computational-based research projects.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.


Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.


Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

Graduate Loyalty Advancement Scholarship

If you’re a University of Liverpool graduate starting this master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive a loyalty discount of up to £2,500 off your master’s tuition fees.

John Lennon Memorial Scholarship

If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.

Postgraduate Opportunity Bursary

If you’re a UK University of Liverpool graduate joining a master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive £3,000 off your tuition fees. You must have graduated in the last two years and received a widening access scholarship during your undergraduate studies.

Sport Liverpool Performance Programme

Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.

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My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

Qualification Details
Postgraduate entry requirements

We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in a relevant subject, such as Microbiology, Biological Sciences or Biomedical Sciences.

Third or fourth year intercalating medical, veterinary or dental students who have passed all assessed components of their programme to date equivalent to a 2:2 will be considered for the programme. A maximum of 10 intercalating student places will be available.

International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.


English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

Qualification Details
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0

Pre-sessional English

Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Pre-sessional English in detail

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.

Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.

Your most recent IELTS score Pre-sessional English course length On campus or online
6.0 overall, with no component below 6.0 6 weeks On campus
6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 10 weeks On campus and online options available
6.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 12 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 20 weeks On campus
5.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.0, and no component below 4.5 30 weeks On campus
4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 40 weeks On campus

If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.

Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.


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Entry requirements: which qualifications do you need?

More about life in Liverpool

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Why study at Liverpool?

Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.

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Accommodation

To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.

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Fees and Finance

Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.


Contact us

Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.

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Last updated 3 April 2025 / / Programme terms and conditions

Changes to Infection, Microbiology and Microbiomes MRes

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.