The course leading to the degree of MPhil is essentially research-based and does not involve assessed instructional courses. Students are based in a research group and undertake research on a topic agreed with the principal investigator (Supervisor). MPhil students also have an Advisor and a Graduate Thesis Panel (GTP), as in the PhD student programme. Students write a MPhil thesis, which is examined via an oral examination involving an Internal and External Examiner. A successful student gains a pass and there are no grades. There is no examined course work. However, as part of the course candidates must complete a short lecture-based course in Michaelmas Term called the "Postgraduate Course in Biochemistry". The educational aim of the MPhil is to give candidates a solid grounding in modern biochemical and biomedical research techniques and practical experience of a year-long, full-time experimental research project. The course also aims to give experience working as part of a team in an academic environment and gaining skills in scientific communication through both oral presentations and writing. This course involves a series of lectures covering a variety of useful experimental techniques used in biochemistry and molecular biology. The aim is to familiarize students with a wide range of techniques extending well beyond those that they will immediately encounter in their own research project. Students must also attend a weekly seminar series throughout the year and present their work to the group at least once during this series. We encourage students to take part in a wide range of skills training opportunities available to both Masters and PhD research students. The successful completion of the highly regarded MPhil in Biochemistry by research prepares the graduate for a wide range of future career opportunities ranging from PhD studies, to industrial research and ancillary work such as intellectual property and patents. The graduate will have attained a high level of expertise in biochemical methodology and research strategy.