Medical Parasitology – (M.Sc.)

This course aims to provide core training in the theoretical and practical aspects of medical parasitology, covering the protozoan and metazoan parasites of humans and the vectors which transmit them, and equip students with specialised skills to enable them to pursue a career in research, control or teaching related to medical parasitology. Specialised study modules are chosen from a list of diverse topics.

Graduates enter a range of global health fields ranging from diagnostics through to applied basic research and operational control to higher degree studies and academic/teaching-related positions.

The Patrick Buxton Memorial Medal and Prize is awarded to the best student of the year. Founded by relatives of Patrick Alfred Buxton, Professor in Entomology, who died in 1955.

Objectives

By the end of this course students should be able to demonstrate: detailed knowledge and understanding of the biology, life cycles, pathogenesis, and diagnosis of parasitic infections in humans and their relevance for human health and control; detailed knowledge and understanding of the biology and strategies for control of the vectors and intermediate hosts of human parasites; carry out practical laboratory identification of parasite stages both free and in tissues and diagnose infections; specialised skills in: advanced diagnostic, molecular, immunological, genetic, chemotherapeutic, ecological and/or control aspects of the subject; the ability to design a laboratory or field-based research project, and apply relevant research skills; prepare a written report including a critical literature review of relevant scientific publications, and show competence in communicating scientific findings.