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Hear from some of our students about their experience of studying on our MSc/ MRes Experimental and Translational Immunology:
"The Experimental and Translational Immunology course at UCL was a really formative experience for me.
Through undertaking a 9 month research project, focusing on CRISPR gene editing, I became confident performing various wet lab techniques and testing my own hypotheses. With such extended periods of practical work, I was able to produce data that thoroughly answered my research questions in a similar manner to PhD students. I found members of my laboratory and course organisers very supportive and I got the impression they had my best interests at heart.
As someone who took biomedical sciences as my undergraduate degree, I found the fundamental and applied immunology module extremely helpful. The lecture series was delivered by world class academics who love their subject and as such the material was very engaging. Overall the module provided the background information necessary for understanding the research of both my own lab and others within the IIT. The research skills and data interpretation module was equally useful. I was able to apply theory taugh in workshops, such as the rationale for choosing certain statistical tests, to real data during my project. By participating in journal clubs I developed the ability to critically analyse primary literature - an essential skill for a career in research.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Experimental and Translational Immunology course to anyone looking to do a PhD or another lab-based role within academic research."
Tooki Chu MRes 2021-22
This course is fantastic for anyone who is interested in immunology. In terms of teaching, the core module provides a solid foundation on the key concepts of immunology, which was helpful as a refresher and also very easy to follow for students that did not have a background in immunology. There is a great selection of optional modules that allow students the opportunity to learn about cutting edge research in the immunological basis and immune-based therapeutic approaches for autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiencies and cancer. The weekly journal clubs were particularly helpful in teaching us how to read and critically analyse research papers.
For me, the highlight of this programme was the 9 month research project. The Pears building is a great hub of immunology research and all the PIs, postdocs and staff here were very approachable and supportive. I really enjoyed the opportunity to undertake original research and definitely learned a lot in terms of practical lab skills and experimental design. Overall, this MRes programme was very well organised and I would recommend it to anyone who intends to pursue a career in research.
Anna Vallduriola Martin MSc ETI
"I applied to the MSc Experimental and Translational Immunology Program because it was specific to my interests in the field of immunology. Through the optional modules I was able to study these subjects deeper, as well as discover new fields of research. Being taught by leading scientists passionate about their research was really inspiring and motivating.
Through the research project I was able to widen my skill set, and dive into my desired research area, as well as understand the every day work of a research lab. Ultimately this experience gave me the knowledge and skills to continue with my academic career as a PhD candidate.
I am deeply grateful for the support recieved by everyone involved in the program, and recommend this course to anyone interested in a career in immunology"
"Undertaking the MSc in Experimental and Translational Immunology at UCL has provided me with an insight to the forefront of immunological research. The taught content in the first two semesters involved teaching from pioneers in the field to provide the initial foundations and further extended knowledge on various topics within immunology. Furthermore, the research project facilitated the application of this knowledge in a cutting edge research facility. I would highly recommend this course to anybody with a keen interest in immunology"
"I applied for the MSc in Experimental and Translational Immunology since I wanted to learn more about the translational aspect of immunology research. I undertook modules regarding cellular pathology, cancer biology, research skills and data interpretation, fundamentals of immunology, and biological therapies. Throughout the year, we had weekly journal club sessions that helped us to interpret and critique scientific papers and evaluate novel findings in the context of current understanding. Furthermore, I had the chance to learn how to write a grant proposal, which has challenged me to think outside the box while attempting to answer a major scientific question. I thoroughly enjoyed our group discussions regarding current literature and different experimental methods in order to devise and justify our approach. The course directors, administrators, lecturers and supervisors have been incredibly supportive and approachable, and help was always available throughout the course.
At the end of my MSc, I completed a 4-month research project in the Pears building. This experience has been incredible opportunity for me since I had no prior research experience. I was able to immerse myself in the inner workings of a lab and learn first-hand from world-leading researchers. Working in the brand-new Pears building has also been a delight; it is a fantastic working environment. Everyone in the IIT has been incredibly welcoming and helpful throughout my project.
Ultimately, I believe this course has taught me how to integrate immunological aspects of different diseases into experimental medicine, all while equipping me with essential laboratory skills and knowledge that has enabled me to transform into a research scientist. I can whole-heartedly recommend this course to anyone who is interested in immunology research.”