Cancer Research (with specialism) MSc
Emerging Technologies in Cancer Research BIOL5408
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Cancer Sciences
- Credits: 20
- Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
- Typically Offered: Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: No
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
This course will equip students with an overview of emerging technologies and their principles and use in cancer research. It will introduce cutting-edge concepts such as omics and spatial technologies and will feature contributions from industrial leaders in the field.
Timetable
Teaching takes place over 5 weeks in Semester 2 with students attending lectures, seminars and tutorials.
Excluded Courses
None
Co-requisites
None
Assessment
Mock grant proposal (75% weighting) 2000 words
Data Interpretation Exercise (25% weighting)
Course Aims
This course introduces students to advanced experimental and analytical technologies shaping modern cancer research, including spatial profiling, organoid models, and single-cell approaches. It aims to develop understanding of their applications, limitations, and potential for translational impact.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
1. Critically evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., spatial, organoid, single-cell) for their suitability in addressing specific cancer research questions.
2. Analyse the opportunities and limitations of these technologies in studying tumour heterogeneity and the microenvironment.
3. Integrate knowledge of emerging technologies into the design of a coherent research strategy.
4. Justify methodological choices in the context of a grant proposal, considering feasibility, innovation, and impact.
5. Synthesize multi-modal approaches to address complex biological questions in oncology.