International PhD Academy: Medical Research

Year 1 of the Bespoke 4-Year PhD Programme 

The foundation year is designed to build your core scientific knowledge and research skills through a combination of taught modules and hands-on lab experience. You’ll complete: 

• 4 taught modules (2 compulsory + 2 optional) 

• 2 research projects (each 3 months long) 

This structure ensures you gain both theoretical understanding and practical experience before starting your main PhD project. 

Compulsory modules 

Methods in Biomedical Research - MEDM5161M

Gain a comprehensive understanding of scientific research principles in biomedical sciences. Learn how to formulate research questions, design projects, and navigate ethical considerations. Explore diverse research approaches including imaging, immunology, organotypic systems, and clinical trials. Hands-on analysis of real research data and interpretation will be included.

Paper Criticism in Medicine - MEDS5020M

Develop critical thinking and analytical skills through group discussions and debates. Learn about the publication process, peer review, and scientific methods. You'll critique real scientific papers, focusing on methodology rather than content. Assessment includes an exam based on an unseen paper.

Research Project 1 – MEDR5410M and Research Project 2 – MEDR5420M

Each project lasts 3 months, giving you 6 months of full-time lab experience. You’ll work in your PhD supervisor’s lab, gaining familiarity with the team and techniques relevant to your future research. Deliverables include: 

• 2 literature reviews 

• 2 project reports (in research paper format) 

• 1 poster presentation 

• 1 oral presentation 

These projects help you build deep subject knowledge and refine your scientific writing and presentation skills.

Optional modules

Choose two 15-credit modules to complement your foundation year. These modules allow you to tailor your learning to your interests and future research goals. Additional modules may be selected from the University of Leeds Taught Postgraduate Catalogue  with approval from the programme and module leads. 

Big Data for Rare and Common Disorders - MEDM5151M

Introduces students to the transformative role of large-scale data in understanding human disease and developing therapies. The module spans a range of conditions, from rare Mendelian disorders to complex diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Through case studies, students explore how big data informs the development of treatments, including gene replacement therapy, pharmacogenetics, and CRISPR-mediated gene editing. By the end of the module, students will appreciate both the opportunities and limitations of big data in modern medical research. 

Cancer Biology and Molecular Oncology - MEDM5221M

Provides an in-depth understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cancer. Students examine key cancer-related pathways, how these are deregulated, and how such insights are used to develop targeted therapies. The module is taught by researchers actively engaged in cutting-edge cancer research, ensuring that students are exposed to the latest developments in the field.

Cancer Drug Development - MEDM5231M

Focuses on the pharmacological challenges involved in translating cancer research into effective clinical treatments. Students gain insight into the drug development pipeline, from laboratory discovery through to clinical trials, and explore the complexities of improving patient outcomes through innovative therapeutic strategies.

Introduction to Genetic Epidemiology - EPIB5032M

Offers a comprehensive overview of the statistical and epidemiological methods used to study the genetic basis of human diseases. While the module includes an introduction to human genetics, its primary emphasis is on understanding how genetic data is analysed and interpreted in population studies. This module is particularly valuable for students interested in public health, genetic risk modelling, or epidemiological research.

High throughput Technologies - BIOL5178M

Equips students with knowledge of advanced biomolecular data generation techniques. The module covers next-generation DNA sequencing, RNA-seq, proteomics, metabolomics, and structural biology. Students learn how these technologies are applied in genome analysis, epigenetics, and drug screening, gaining practical experience in interpreting complex datasets generated by high-throughput methods.

Human Molecular Genetics – MEDM5111M

Explores the principles of inheritance and the molecular mechanisms by which mutations lead to disease. Students study the Human Genome Project and its relevance to both single-gene and complex disorders. The module also examines how genetic knowledge influences clinical decision-making, making it highly relevant for students interested in genomics and personalised medicine.

Immunity and Disease - MEDM5121M

Advances students’ understanding of the immune system in the context of human disease. The module covers immune responses to infection, autoimmunity, and cancer, and explores how the immune system is harnessed in the prevention and treatment of major diseases. This module is ideal for students pursuing research in immunology, infectious disease, or cancer immunotherapy. 

Models of Human Disease for Translational Research - MEDM5134M

Provides insight into the use of both animal and non-animal models in biomedical research. Students learn about the types of models used, their advantages and limitations, and the ethical and legislative frameworks governing their use in the UK. The module also introduces alternatives such as cell lines, organoids, and organ-on-a-chip technologies, with a focus on the principles of the 3Rs (Replacement, Refinement, Reduction) and the work of the NC3Rs.

The Molecular Biology of Cancer - MEDM5141

Delivers essential knowledge of cancer biology, focusing on the dysregulation of cellular processes and signalling pathways that contribute to disease progression. Students explore the classical hallmarks of cancer and how molecular insights are driving the development of personalised therapies. The module is taught by experts in the field and provides a strong foundation for further study in oncology..

Stem Cell Biology - MEDM5211M

Introduces students to the fundamental principles of stem cell biology, using the haematopoietic system as a model. The module explores how stem cells differentiate into various cell types and how dysregulation can lead to cancer. Students also study current experimental approaches such as microarray, ChIP-seq, and shRNA, as well as emerging areas including cancer stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS), and regenerative medicine.