Great life sciences careers start at Manchester Metropolitan University
Promoted by Manchester Metropolitan University

Great life sciences careers start at Manchester Metropolitan University

The life sciences are at the forefront of addressing global challenges, from combating infectious diseases to advancing public health. For example, the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines have been crucial in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic, while advancements in genetic molecular markers for cancer can lead to targeted therapies.

If you seek a future making a difference through the study of living things and life processes, the Manchester Metropolitan University is a great place to get an international education that can launch your career. With international students from over 100 countries, the university welcomes aspiring scientists and healthcare professionals to excel through its rigorous curriculum and practical experience.

Dr. Daniel Moreno Martinez achieved just that with a PhD from the Department of Biomedical Sciences. Here, he focused on his interest in endothelial dysfunction and developing an understanding on vascular biology. As he expanded his technical skills, he mastered a whole suite of soft skills too, such as project management, strategic planning, understanding ethical regulatory considerations, adaptability, resilience and much more — all of which he uses in his role today as Head of Innovation.

“In my current role, I consolidate a flagship innovation programme, develop bottom-up innovation processes, and manage European projects to ensure high standards in hospital innovation,” he says. “I also oversee stakeholder management, strategic alliances, and the introduction of new technologies while representing the institution at conferences and events.”

Although Martinez graduated in 2017, he still remembers great things about his time here. “What I loved most about my Manchester Met education was the perfect blend of a rigorous academic environment and a warm, supportive community that felt like a family,” he says. “The university fostered an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity and excellence while also providing a nurturing and inclusive space where I felt valued and supported by both peers and faculty.”

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 rates 30% of Manchester Metropolitan University’s research as world-leading. Source: Manchester Metropolitan University

World-class education, real-world impact

Since 1824, Manchester Metropolitan University has driven innovation and progress through education and research, leaving its impact on Manchester and beyond. At the university’s Department of Life Sciences, students learn from various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience and cutting-edge research.

The BSc and MSc Biomedical Science programmes are accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science. Based in the Dalton Building, this is where students can develop essential practical skills with advanced laboratories and equipment. Upon graduation, biomedical science alumni have pursued rewarding careers across different industries, including the National Health Service (NHS), pharmaceutical industry, research, and education. Notable achievements of Manchester Metropolitan graduates include securing roles such as Lead Specialist for Technical and Scientific Development and Head of Centre for Manchester Blood Centre, as well as other leadership positions within the NHS.

Meanwhile, students interested in the human body can join the BSc and MSc programmes in Human Physiology. Practical classes, workshops, and research projects provide students with many opportunities to apply their knowledge and develop transferable skills. As Margaret Poloamina, an MSc Human Physiology graduate from Nigeria, says, “In my course, I have learned how to use specialist laboratory equipment to diagnose and treat medical disorders. The facilities are important because they aid learning and understanding.”

These practical skills, coupled with theoretical knowledge, equip graduates for various roles. BSc graduates have found jobs in laboratory research, the pharmaceutical industry, and medical communications, while MSc graduates pursue roles in graduate entry medicine, physician associate, etc. Graduate Oluwadamilola Oguntoye went to medical school to pursue a career in medicine. Today, she’s a junior resident doctor tasked to care for surgical patients admitted to the hospital, whether in emergency or elective cases. “I also collaborate with fantastic teams to improve patient outcomes across various medical and surgical specialities,” she says.

She credits the MSc for preparing her well for this role. “Completing the research project component of my course helped me enhance my attention to detail, as this skill was assessed on a daily basis,” she says. “Additionally, I developed strong networking skills by liaising with different departments within the university and with external speakers throughout the course.”

But that’s not all. Manchester Metropolitan University supports its students throughout their academic journey and beyond. The Department of Life Sciences and the University Careers Service have various services that provide guidance and support tailored to individual ambitions. “Manchester Metropolitan University really ensures the well-being of students and provides plenty of support. I feel supported, and I fit right in. There are plenty of career development workshops, extra-curricular activities, and study support with personal tutors,” says Shaheen Hajira, a student from Singapore.

Manchester Metropolitan University has more than 330,000 graduates in 170 countries. Source: Manchester Metropolitan University

Building a community of global scholars

As a modern university in England, Manchester Metropolitan University quickly makes international students feel at home in its welcoming environment. Recognised as an “outstanding” university, it ranks among the top 15 in England and is the second-best in the North West for delivering exceptional student experience. The university is committed to making higher education accessible to all with the passion and ability to succeed.

In its inclusive and accessible campus, everyone is treated with dignity and respect. You are supported by a community that values diversity, enables students to achieve their full potential, and removes barriers to participation and belonging. “As a non-native English-speaking graduate, I was first very timid in class,” says Dexin Yang, an MSc Biomedical Science student. “But with help from my tutors, I completed the course presentation in English for the first time and answered the questions of the teachers and classmates smoothly. When I finished speaking, they all encouraged me, and I not only felt my progress but also felt happy to be in such a friendly and positive environment.”

Understanding that leaving one’s home country can be lonely, the university embraces its Inclusive and Diverse Culture strategy, celebrating diverse communities while fostering unity and respect. “My most precious memory was Eid of 2019,” recalls Manar Shibi, a BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science graduate from Saudi Arabia. “As an international student celebrating Eid away from family for the first time, Manchester Met’s celebratory event made me feel truly at home.”

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