MRes Biodiversity, Evolution and Conservation

A one year research-based postgraduate course based at University College London and run in collaboration with the Natural History Museum and the Institute of Zoology.

Course description

This is an ideal degree for highly motivated students interested in the breadth of evolutionary, ecological, and conservation science and seeking a programme to provide a foundation in both pure and applied research in biodiversity.

The one-year full-time programme comprises:

• three taught modules during the first term (October to December)
• two 18-week research projects (January to April and May to September).

Aims and objectives

After completing the MRes course in Biodiversity, Evolution and Conservation, students will have:

• a rigorous training in quantitative methods used in evolutionary, ecological, environmental, and conservation science.
• a broad introduction to the range of research concerned with biodiversity, from its past evolutionary roots to its future preservation.
• research experience in pure and applied science in the diverse settings of a world-leading multidisciplinary university and two globally-renowned research organisations.
• transferable skills in quantitative data handling, oral and poster presentation, essay writing, reasoned argument, and critical thinking.

Course content

Taught courses

Each course will have required coursework, ranging from practicals to essays and presentations.

Topics focus on cutting-edge quantitative tools in:

• ecology
• biogeography
• evolutionary biology
• genetics
• bioinformatics
• systematics
• palaeobiology
• conservation
• environmental biology

The taught portion that comprises the first term of the programme is divided into three courses:

1. Analytical tools in biodiversity and evolutionary research (30 credits)

An intensive methods course which will provide students with practical training in the variety of analytical tools using in pure and applied research in biodiversity, evolution, and conservation

2. Science communication for biologists (15 credits)

3. Computational methods in biodiversity research (15 credits)

Fieldwork

Students undertake a field trip to Blakeney Point, Norfolk. Taking place towards the beginning of term one, students are introduced to field techniques and experimental design. Data collected at Blakeney Point will be used for a scientific report and poster assessment.

Research projects

The two research projects (60 credits each) will be marked based on a written dissertation and poster or oral presentation for each project.

Students will be required to choose projects based at two different institutions (out of the three partner institutions) to ensure that they gain experience in a range of methods and topics.