MSc Analytical Science for the Biosciences Industries

Overview

Analytical science underpins crucial areas of the bioscience sector, such as biotechnology, brewing and distilling, food and drink, pharmaceuticals and bioengineering. 

Academics at Heriot-Watt University work closely with these industries and, in recent years, leaders from organisations such as the Scotch Whisky Research Institute (SWRI), Diageo, Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC), and the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service have highlighted the need for graduates who have strong applied analytical science skills. 

The MSc in Analytical Science for the Biosciences Industries has been developed in close collaboration with our industrial partners to fill this skills gap and is designed to provide training to accommodate applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, to equip them with the skills they need to thrive in the biosciences industry.  

Flexible study for professionals

This degree could also benefit professionals already working within industry. To help fit study around employment, study materials can be delivered flexibly online. The MSc can also be studied part-time over two years, with the option of a Postgraduate Diploma, which allows you to study in semesters one and two but does not require completion of a final dissertation project. 

Key courses and learning outcomes

The MSc Analytical Science for the Biosciences Industries will equip you with detailed knowledge of applied analytical science. You will have hands-on access to cutting-edge analytical equipment, learn how to acquire and process data effectively and draw appropriate conclusions. Modern lab regulatory issues, health and safety essentials and project management also form the core of our product.  All content will be delivered in the context of the biosciences industries, informed by our industrial partners.

These learning outcomes are devolved through the following core courses: 

• Introduction to Analytical Science for Bioscientists 
• Applications of Analytical Science
• Analysis of Colloids and Complex Fluids
• Laboratory Regulation and Project Management
• Research and Professional Practice

Teaching methods 

The MSc will be delivered through lectures, workshops and seminars supported by lab sessions. All material will be available in-person and online.  The MSc will also provide students with first-hand insights into the biosciences industry. This will include site visits to analytical laboratories and companies, presentations by invited specialists from across the sector and regular practical sessions with training in the use of specialist analytical equipment. The 3-month dissertation project can be taken on-campus or on placement with one of our industrial partners and will provide the opportunity to put advanced analytical techniques into practice.  

Facilities 

Heriot-Watt University's Edinburgh campus offers students access to world-class research facilities such as state-of-the-art HPLC, IR and UV spectroscopies, NMR spectroscopy, GC-MS and LC-MS, as well as powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction, all run under the guidance of expert technical staff.  

Research and staff expertise

Research in the areas of Chemical and Life Sciences are conducted by two dedicated Research Institutes:

• Institute of Chemical Sciences
• Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering

The international standing of Chemistry research at Heriot-Watt was reflected in the REF2014 exercise where over 94% of academic papers submitted were rated as 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent'.  

Across these two institutes staff expertise covers diverse applications of analytical science to materials science, gas-phase spectroscopy, chemical and biochemical analysis, complex fluids and interfacial science.

Staff also hold prominent positions in both IBioIC and the Scottish Bioeconomy Council.

September 2024 entry

The deadline for applications from UK students is 30 August 2024. For EU and overseas applicants, we guarantee to consider applications submitted by 2 August 2024.