Develop research expertise and cutting-edge skills to address global challenges including infectious diseases, AMR, and the rapidly evolving field of microbiomes, which is crucial for human, animal, and environmental health within the Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences.
Equip yourself for a range of careers in academia, biotechnology, healthcare, and public health. Leverage Liverpool’s strength in One Health to play a pivotal role in shaping solutions for the future of global health and beyond.
This programme offers a unique opportunity to gain expertise to address and communicate complex global issues. Explore infection, microbiology and the role of microbiomes in health, disease and the environment. Benefit from world-class facilities, expert supervision, and a vibrant scientific community.
The programme includes Research Foundations, a 90-credit research project and specialized modules (60 credits). Choose a research project that aligns with your interests and collaborate with internationally recognized scientists, gaining hands-on experience with access to the Centre for Genomic Research (CGR) and the NERC Environmental Omics Facility (NEOF) and join the Microbiome Innovation Centre (MIC) and its active community of researchers.
Specialized modules can complement your research, allowing you to dive deeper into a range of topics and develop interdisciplinary skills in high demand across sectors. Graduates will be well-positioned to pursue competitive careers in biomedical and biological research, in academia, public sector agencies and leading pharmaceutical/biotech companies.
This master’s in research is for graduates from a Biomedical Sciences, Biological Sciences or Bioveterinary Sciences background who want to develop understanding and research skills across the fields of infection and disease, microbiology in health and the environment, microbiomes and their interplay from a One Health perspective. This MRes will equip students with the knowledge, experience and transferable skills necessary for them to transition to and be competitive in a number of careers. Individuals with interdisciplinary skills in infection, health and environmental microbiology, phage biology, bioinformatics and microbiomes, translation, communication and application of such research for societal good are in demand.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| RESEARCH FOUNDATIONS (IVES703) | 30 |
| MICROBIOMES (IVES729) | 15 |
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| INFORMATICS FOR LIFE SCIENCES (LIFE721) | 15 |
| CODING FOR LIFE SCIENCES (LIFE733) | 15 |
| EMERGING INFECTIONS AND PANDEMICS (IVES711) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| IVES MRES RESEARCH PROJECT (IVES704) | 90 |
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| IMMUNOLOGY (IVES721) | 15 |
| DIAGNOSTICS, THERAPEUTICS AND VACCINES (IVES722) | 15 |
| UNDERSTANDING MODELS AND DATA (IVES724) | 15 |
| GLOBAL OUTBREAK SURVEILLANCE AND CONTROL (IVES717) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| IVES MRES RESEARCH PROJECT (IVES704) | 90 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Throughout this on campus programme, you will engage in a diverse range of teaching and learning methods designed to foster both individual and collaborative learning. Time-tabled teaching activities will include lectures, seminars, interactive workshops, group discussions, and case-based learning. The modules are structured to encourage active participation, enabling you to develop ideas, formulate hypotheses, and design strategies to address complex problems.
You will work both individually and in groups, tackling real-world challenges by applying critical thinking and problem-solving techniques. As part of your development, you will co-create a research proposal and engage in public outreach activities, with the opportunity to implement these.
Learning is supported by a range of resources available 24/7 on Canvas, our online learning platform, ensuring you have constant access to course materials. Additionally, you will have regular one-on-one meetings with your research supervisor, providing tailored support and ongoing feedback. These sessions will help refine your critical thinking, creativity, and scientific communication skills in a collaborative and supportive environment.
Your research project will be the cornerstone of the programme, offering you a comprehensive academic research experience. From planning and identifying training needs to executing and communicating your research findings, this project will provide hands-on experience in scientific inquiry. You will gain invaluable skills in research methodology, data analysis, and scientific writing, while also having the opportunity to present your findings to peers and professionals.
The assessments within this programme aim to simulate real world challenges, reflecting tasks students will encounter within their professional careers. Students are assessed through a blended mix of coursework that includes scientific reports, conference presentations, developing public engagement resources, research grant proposals, data handling sessions and poster presentations, culminating in a research project report in the style of an academic paper which will include a visual abstract and an oral viva at the end of semester 3.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
Intercalation allows you take a break from your degree, usually after year 3 or 4, and study an additional qualification. Most intercalating students choose to study a master's degree. This gives you the opportunity to explore a subject of interest at an advanced level and acquire new skills and knowledge that will enhance and/or complement your degree.
This course is led by the Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences. The Institute integrates cutting-edge research in infectious diseases, veterinary science, ecology and evolution to benefit people, animals and ecosystems, nationally and globally. Their work addresses major societal One Health challenges, including emerging infectious diseases, food security, antimicrobial resistance and the impacts of environmental change. Research-led teaching provides exciting opportunities for students, who will form the next generation of researchers.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Graduates of the MRes in Infection, Microbiology, and Microbiomes will gain cutting-edge research expertise and specialized knowledge, unlocking exciting career opportunities. Beyond PhD training in academia or industry, you’ll be primed to become a sought-after candidate for roles in public sector agencies like the UK Health Security Agency, Animal and Plant Health Agency, and National Institute for Health Research, as well as non-governmental organizations and leading pharmaceutical and biotech companies.
Whether you’re pioneering groundbreaking scientific discoveries or shaping global health policy, this programme provides a solid foundation to propel you into a career dedicated to tackling the world’s most pressing global challenges.
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £5,238
Part-time place, per year - £2,619
Full-time place, per year - £32,200
Part-time place, per year - £16,100
The fees shown are for the academic year 2026/27. The University may administer inflationary rises to international fees in subsequent academic years as you progress through the course.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £13,206 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. You can find information on the general and subject-specific costs you could expect to incur on our study costs webpage.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
This award support students from socioeconomically underrepresented backgrounds with their master's studies.
Are you a UK or Republic of Ireland student who completed your undergraduate degree at the University of Liverpool? You could receive a £1,500 tuition fee discount, subject to the full eligibility criteria. This scholarship will be awarded to all eligible students.
The scholarship will be open to two UK students in the 2026/27 academic year and is worth £5,000. Students must be studying a postgraduate course at the University of Liverpool. Those on data science or coding courses may be given priority.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in a relevant subject, such as Microbiology, Biological Sciences or Biomedical Sciences. Third or fourth year intercalating medical, veterinary or dental students who have passed all assessed components of their programme to date equivalent to a 2:2 will be considered for the programme. A maximum of 10 intercalating student places will be available. |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with writing at 6.0 and no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with writing at 5.5 and no component below 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component at 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component at 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience, living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 6 July 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions