New MSc in Pandemic Sciences open for applications

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The University of Liverpool’s School of Life Sciences has launched a new MSc programme in Pandemic Sciences, with its first intake starting this autumn.

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a massive impact on public health, mental health, national economies, social behaviours and the way we work, and has highlighted the major challenges of controlling infectious disease spread in today’s highly interconnected world. The current pandemic revealed a lack of global preparedness, and we must do better next time.

Led by researchers from the Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, the new MSc Pandemic Sciences programme will develop students’ understanding and skills in statistical analyses, infection biology and disease surveillance, providing students with the interdisciplinary expertise required to prevent, monitor and control medical and veterinary infectious disease outbreaks.

A founding partner in the recently launched Pandemic Institute, the University's academics advised Government during the Covid-19 pandemic and are leading experts in areas such as epidemiology, zoonotic infections, HIV and Ebola. The MSc programme will use a ‘One Health’ approach, which will equip students with the necessary skills for careers in future disease control and public health across the medical and veterinary sectors.

Programme Director Professor Ben Makepeace said: “For too long, the necessary skills to tackle the spread of infectious diseases haven’t been taught in an integrated and effective manner. This very timely MSc programme will produce graduates who will excel not only in their understanding of the biological basis for outbreak control, but also in science communication to the public and shaping government policies in the midst of misinformation and pseudoscience.”

Professor Matthew Baylis, Executive Dean of the Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences said: “I am delighted to see the launch of this new MSc. Liverpool is a global city with expertise in many fields relevant to pandemics, including medical, tropical and veterinary research. This is an exciting opportunity to learn from leading academics on the front line of research.”

Professor Tom Solomon, Director of The Pandemic Institute said: “The University of Liverpool has a long-established history of research and teaching in areas relating to pandemics and emerging infections. It’s fantastic to see all of this now brought together in this new MSc which I know will prove very popular.”

Applications are now open for the inaugural autumn 2022 intake. Further information regarding the programme content, fees and entry requirements can be found on the MSc Pandemic Sciences study page.