Overview

Cellular and Molecular Biology

Introduction

Molecular Biology is the field of biology that studies the structure and function of genes at a molecular level. The study of chromosomes and gene expression of an organism can give insight into heredity, genetic variation, and mutations.

Genetics is at the heart of the cellular and molecular biology. It is the science of heredity. Genetics provides a platform for the development of new drugs to combat diseases, methodology for the conservation of endangered species, and understanding evolutionary patterns and processes. Furthermore, it helps us to understand who we are and what we are, enhance our biosecurity, and even catch criminals. Genetics is a rapidly advancing field that creates challenges and opportunities for society.

Cellular and Molecular Biology and Genetics are strongly represented at UC. This area overlaps with other majors such as Biochemistry, Microbiology, and increasingly, Ecology and Environmental Science.

Cellular and Molecular Biology

What will my study involve?

Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora | School of Biological Sciences has modern, well-equipped teaching and research laboratories with excellent technical support.
There is a full suite of molecular biology and biochemistry equipment including real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) machines, DNA sequencing facility, confocal microscopy, and tissue culture and image processing facilities.
Our broad School of Biological Sciences makes access to expert staff and equipment across the discipline easy.

Cellular and Molecular Biology

Courses

See all postgraduate courses in Cellular and Molecular Biology

UC offers the following postgraduate programmes in Cellular and Molecular Biology:

See the individual qualification pages for more information on degree requirements.

Bachelor of Science with Honours majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology

Complete CEMB480 Research Project, as well as BIOL411 Research Preparation and BIOL412 Research Proposal.

Another 45 points are selected from BIOL455, BIOL456, BIOL496, and BIOL 459–462.

The remaining points may be selected from other courses as approved by the Programme Coordinator.

Postgraduate Certificate in Science majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology

Complete at least 45 points in 400-level BIOL courses for the major. In total 60 points must be completed for the PGCertSc from Biological Sciences and/or other Science courses.

Postgraduate Diploma in Science majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology

At least 120 points of courses, including BIOL411 Research Preparation and BIOL412 Research Proposal, is required for the major.

At least 45 points are chosen from BIOL455, BIOL456, BIOL496, and BIOL 459–462, with the remaining points selected from other courses approved by the Programme Coordinator.

Master of Science majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology

Part I of the MSc in Cellular and Molecular Biology is 120 points of courses, including BIOL411 Research Preparation and BIOL412 Research Proposal.

At least 45 points selected from BIOL455, BIOL456, BIOL496, and BIOL 459–462, and the remaining points selected from other courses approved by the Programme Coordinator.

You will need a B+ Grade Point Average to proceed to Part II of the degree.

Part II requires CEMB690 MSc Thesis.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cellular and Molecular Biology

In the PhD, you will complete a thesis of original research in the Cellular and Molecular Biology field (CEMB790 Cellular and Molecular Biology PhD).

Cellular and Molecular Biology

Career opportunities

Our graduates work in civil society organisations and for government agencies providing expertise to maximise the benefits of genetic technologies while minimising risk.

The broad and transferable skills gained from following this pathway open up many career options, many of which may include some component of laboratory work such as culturing micro-organisms, sequencing DNA, identifying species.

Graduates who specialise in Molecular/Micro Biology and Systematics may take up careers like: