Learning Objectives
The MSc in Radiobiology is scheduled to run over one academic year as a full-time course consisting of eight compulsory taught modules and a research-based dissertation. The course aims to provide a broad training in the scientific and clinical disciplines involved in radiobiology.
Learning objectives
The overall learning objective for the course is to provide you with the multidisciplinary skill set and knowledge required to design, conduct and lead radiobiology research, and to deliver radiobiology in the health service.
On completion of the course, students will be able to demonstrate the ability to:
- Explain the underpinning physics which governs the interactions between ionising radiation and biological tissues
- Critically analyse the effects of ionising radiation on DNA and the associated DNA damage response, with respect to their effects on cell survival.
- Critically appraise the irradiation response of cells and tissues, including the factors that modify this response, with respect to how this may affect clinical practice.
- Apply the scientific method to address research questions within the field of radiobiology or medical physics.
- Evaluate the relationship between the characteristics of the tumour microenvironment and the response of that tumour to irradiation.
- Critically discuss the risks associated with radiation exposure, at the whole body and population level, and precautions which can be taken to mitigate these risks.
- Explain and evaluate the research approaches used in applied and translational research within the field of radiobiology.
- Explain the rationale and mechanisms of action of common treatments used as alternatives to, or in combination with, external beam radiotherapy for the treatment of cancer.
- Critically appraise the use of novel external beam radiotherapy techniques for the treatment of cancer.
Students will also demonstrate the transferable skills of:
- Critical assessment, including sourcing, appraisal, and evaluation of published material
- Scientific writing, including the development of reasoned and well-supported arguments
- Data handling and interpretation, including use of statistical methods
- Use of information technology to support scientific research and the production of academic reports
- Time and resource management
- Familiarity with laboratory safety and health and safety at work
- Written and oral communication and presentation skills