Jalilah Idris is studying a PhD at the University of Bristol in novel gene regulatory pathways in Parkinson's and Huntington's disease. Her interest in Molecular Neuroscience stemmed from her BSc in Biological Sciences, after which she worked as a research assistant at the Brain Research Institute at Monash University, Malaysia.

“I chose the MSc in Molecular Neuroscience because I didn’t previously have an academic background in the subject, and I needed this before I could decide on any particular branch of neuroscience for my PhD programme,” she said. “I was also pleased to see that the syllabus offered connections between diseases in each unit, making it more attractive.”

The programme provides students with a balance between theoretical and practical work. The first six modules are lecture-based, which prepare the students for the following practical work. Module seven sees students doing a laboratory project linked to research taking place in the University’s School of Clinical Sciences.

 “The lab project comes at the end of the programme. At that stage in the Master's, we are in a strong position to apply the knowledge that we’ve learnt so far. This is  important as we are expected to do our research as independently as possible, after a phase of in-depth training in the techniques used,” she explained

The Master's is a one-year programme with much to cover. However, there is plenty of support available from the expert teaching staff, who encourage students to ask questions both during and after classes.

“I enjoyed the Master's thoroughly; I've learnt a lot. The staff provide an excellent support system, and students are thoroughly prepared for the future, whether working in industry or academia,” reflected Jalilah.

Jalilah is doing her PhD research in the same lab as her MSc project. “The best expression that I can use is that ‘the MSc opened many doors' for me. It helped me to identify which branch of neuroscience I was most interested in, as well as giving me time to get to know my supervisors and lecturers. It also enabled me to develop my skills before committing myself to either research or non-research work.”

As well as providing a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical sides of neuroscience, students also develop a wide range of desirable professional skills;  team working, time management, exposure to the research environment, using research-specific software, networking and developing ways of communicating their work.

 “For me, the master’s was a valuable and enjoyable experience. I learnt about fundamental principles in neuroscience and developed a wide range of professional skills that will surely help me in my future career.”