MSc Synthetic Biology & Biotechnology Handbook

On behalf of the School of the School of Biological Sciences, I’d like to welcome you to Edinburgh and to this Taught Masters Programme.

The MSc in Synthetic Biology & Biotechnology represents a unique opportunity to train in some of the newest and leading edge areas in Biology. Synthetic biology tools provide a central enabling set of technologies ready to be used by the biotechnology industry. By combining systems biology with engineering principles to design and build new biomolecular networks, synthetic biology has become one of the ‘eight great technologies’ of the future, with goals ranging from modifying microbes in order to digest industrial waste to the creation of artificial cells.

Our MSc offers training that reflects the diversity of synthetic biology and biotechnology from experimental lab work, to modelling of biological circuits, to the social implications of designed cells. We offer flexibility in the structure of the programme, allowing you to select courses from other programmes to suit your background and area of interest. You will see that the MSc comprises 2 components in Semester 1 and Semester 2 (taught courses, seminars etc.), and then a research project and dissertation due in August. This three-month research project could be carried out in a University research laboratory or could be industry-based (either in the laboratory of a more established company in the biotech industry or in a start-up company).

The MSc programme will equip you with the skills and knowledge that are attractive to prospective employers in the rapidly expanding biotechnology industry, as well as providing thorough training for further research at PhD level and beyond.

You are encouraged to get to know and enjoy working with the other members of the programme, and so build up your own network of colleagues for the future. I want to emphasise that you are not in competition with one another, as there is no limit on the number of merits/distinctions available.

If you are experiencing any problems with your work during your time at Edinburgh, you should first discuss them with the Course Organiser, but you can always contact your Student Adviser or Programme Director (and we will discuss them with the Course Organiser). If you have personal or domestic difficulties, please contact your Student Adviser and they will do what they can to help. The University has a comprehensive student welfare system to which you will have access. Let me remind you that problems should be solved as soon as possible, even if they appear minor to you.

Finally, let me, on behalf of everyone associated with the programme, wish you every success and an enjoyable time here, and I look forward to meeting you.

Dr Elise Cachat 

The Degree Programme Table (DPT) lists the compulsory and optional courses for your programme. 

Synthetic Biology & Biotechnology DPT

Students are not allowed to take more than a total of 30 credits below level 11. 

An alternative appropriate course may be substituted with the permission of the Programme Director. 

Information relating to assessments and their deadlines are detailed in the associated Course Learn Ultra page. Note that access to our Learn Ultra Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is restricted to current students only.

Personalised Timetables 

Information on your timetable can be accessed via MyEd.  

• This includes a personalised timetable service called MyTimetable. 
• Your personalised timetable also appears on Office 365 calendars, which you can view on your smartphone or other device. 

 Access your timetable on MyEd

Timetable information for students

As a member of the School of Biological Sciences, you are warmly welcome to visit the office or contact staff if you have a query. The exam board for the MSc in Synthetic Biology & Biotechnology is held jointly with that for the MSc in Systems and Synthetic Biology.