Course description

Among the many lessons learned from the global COVID 19 pandemic, we now recognize a critical shortfall in highly trained research scientists and technical experts with core expertise in immunology, infection and chronic disease. This requirement is shifting from those with a focus on acute viral infection and immunity to those with a more holistic understanding of the relationship between immunity, infectious disease and chronic inflammation. This requirement is especially evident in the growing number of long covid patients which includes people with preexisting chronic conditions arising from other infection(s) or because of physiological dysfunction. Examples of these complex pathologies involving long covid include tuberculosis, kidney disease, diabetes and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD].

The University of Leicester meets this evolving need for highly trained research scientists with a comprehensive range of specialist knowledge-rich graduate taught education. We deliver exciting, fast-paced training by internationally-recognised experts in immunity, infectious disease and chronic inflammatory conditions. Our intent is to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide research skills in support of the populations whose healthcare needs vary by global region.

Our MSc in Immunity, Infection and Chronic Disease delivers detailed treatment of a significant range of infections and diseases, alongside the human immune response. It provides training in the latest theoretical and technical advances which can be readily applied to tackling the problems of infectious disease or chronic health conditions:

• High-value hands-on training. We provide in-depth practical training on modern laboratory equipment in the first term.
• In-depth focus on immunology, infection and chronic disease. Our theory module provides you with a detailed and systematic examination of immunity with a particular focus on the link between infectious and chronic inflammatory diseases with immune mechanisms.  
• Extended laboratory dissertation research. In term 2, you will undertake a lab research dissertation project. Our research dissertation projects span a range of disciplines across multiple departments within the College of Life Sciences and encompass projects that address basic biological function through applied clinical interventions 

Our pedagogic approach emphasises critical analysis of literature, experimental design and hypothesis testing with exposure to a wide variety of analytic techniques. We provide you with the opportunity to participate in novel research, to make discoveries and to persuade your colleagues that your scientific arguments are sound. During your research dissertation placements, you will apply your critical analysis skills and hone your capacity to communicate your scientific results.   

Previous graduates from this MSc course have successfully applied these laboratory-based skills learned in Leicester to tackle formidable challenges, including clinical management of intractable infections, like tuberculosis, hospital and diagnostic service management and other leadership roles within their communities. Our graduates can provide essential on-the-ground expertise. This is especially important as misinformation competes with fact- and evidence-based science. You will be well-positioned to act as trusted experts who can influence their communities, their hospitals, and their social networks.  

Entry requirements