Biological Sciences Postgraduate Research - 2024 Entry

The MSc by Research (MScRes) is a one-year full-time research programme that differs from a taught Masters programme by placing more emphasis on research, and by being examined much more like a PhD, by viva voce (oral) examination, rather than by grading of coursework and dissertation. This degree will equip you with confidence and competence in the latest research skills (including generic skills such as literature searching, legal and ethical aspects, project planning, grant proposal writing, and statistical manipulation of data) and allow you to apply for further research training (PhD) programmes, or to directly apply for research positions in universities or research institutes.

The first three months will be spent refining your project proposal and conducting a thorough Literature review. You will also present your proposal to the rest of the cohort and supervisors. Feedback obtained will enable you to improve the final project and thesis. You will also be expected to take advantage of the training programme provided by the College of Natural Sciences Graduate School and the University Doctoral School in both subject- specific and generic postgraduate-level skills.

Specific funded projects leading to this degree may be advertised from time to time, but you are welcome to discuss options at any time with potential supervisors. Details of research specialisms and contact details for staff can be found on the School Research pages. As well as offering strong support for research activities, the School offers unique opportunities for students to conduct project work under internationally recognised supervisors. Students also benefit from our extensive local, national and international links with state and private sector organisations. 

Research Opportunities

Extensive national and international staff contacts mean that you are often able to carry out their research projects in association with commercial consultancies, local councils, environmental organisations (e.g. the Environment Agency, Countryside Council for Wales, RSPB, British Trust for Ornithology, many of whom have regional offices based in Bangor), and government research institutes (e.g. Centre for Ecology and Hydrology) in the UK, and abroad (past projects have involved fieldwork in the West Indies, Africa, Maldives, and various European countries).

Currently Available Projects

Entry requires a good first degree (2.ii or above) in a relevant biological subject from a university, or a similar qualification from any other institution. Alternatively, possession of a suitable professional qualification and relevant practical experience may also be accepted.

As well as finding specific employment based on the specialist knowledge acquired during postgraduate training, your general employability will be enhanced by evidence of your ability to work independently, to think analytically and innovatively, and to conceptualise and question. During your studies, you will also have the chance to develop essential professional skills such as good communication, teamwork and leadership skills and enhance your practical experience. Our past graduates have gone on to careers in research (both in academia and research institutes) as well as in commercial environmental consultancies, DEFRA, water authorities, scientific publishing, landscape architects and many others.

The first step is to identify a project you are interested in then and contact the member of staff who is advertising it. They will then advise you if and how you should make a formal application to the University. When contacting potential supervisors, you should briefly outline your academic background and explain your interest in the project you are contacting them about, as well as attach a CV.

Do not submit a direct application for a postgraduate research degree to Bangor University without first identifying a potential supervisor and discussing your research interests and application with them first.