Cell & Molecular Biology is the study of cells and the molecules (DNA, RNA, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates) that combine to form them. This includes their physiological properties such as their structure, their interaction with the extracellular environment and other cells, their life cycle, division and function, and eventual death. You will learn about single-celled organisms such as bacteria, and more specialised cells in animals and plants. Experiential learning using microscopy and numerous cuttingedge molecular approaches will help you to understand how cells in organisms develop, how they respond to their environment and the molecular changes that underpin diseased cells. This training will equip you to tackle important global challenges, such as understanding the molecular basis of diseases and innovating novel therapeutic approaches to combat them. If you are looking to develop a broad knowledge of biomolecular sciences, encompassing the molecular biology, genetics and biochemistry of cells, then this is the degree for you.

This is a sample pathway for a degree in Cell & Molecular Biology. Topics include regulation of gene expression, cell biology of disease, developmental biology, principles of genetics, hot topics in cell and molecular biology, advanced cancer cell biology and genetics, and biomedical diagnostics.

First Year

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Mathematics
• Optional Science modules
• Elective module

Second Year

• Cell & Molecular Biology
• + 2 Other Science Subjects
• Elective Modules

Third Year

• Cell & Molecular Biology
• Elective modules

Fourth Year

• Cell and Molecular Biology (includes a research project in diverse areas such as cancer biology, drug delivery, genetic analysis and molecular imaging)

Timetables & Assessment

Each student will have their own timetable based on their individual module selection. This is a full time course and classes may include lectures, practicals and tutorials, depending on the subjects. Students will also be expected to study independently (autonomous student learning). Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.

For detailed information on subject content click here

Students in Cell & Molecular Biology have the option of participating in a three month summer internship at the National Science and Technology Development Agency, Bangkok, Thailand. Students in third year have spent time studying at the following universities:

• University of California, USA
• University of Melbourne, Australia

Graduates in Cell and Molecular Biology can find employment in:

• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries
• Biomedical research
• Hospital and university laboratories
• Forensic science laboratories
• Genetic counselling

Graduates can pursue MSc programmes in Biotechnology, Biotechnology with Business, Biotherapeutics, or apply for PhD programmes in cell signalling, membrane biology or genetics, in Ireland and abroad.

• A-Level/GCSE
• Other EU Applicants
• Non-EU Applicants
• QQI FET Entry Routes
  
• Level 6/7 Progression Routes
• Mature Entry Route
• HEAR
• DARE

Professor Antoinette Perry
UCD School of Biology & Environmental Science
Science Centre (West)
Belfield, Dublin 4

Email: antoinette.perry@ucd.ie