Infectious and tropical diseases remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and continue to present significant health, economic and societal challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. There is a critical need for researchers with the skills, insight and commitment to design and deliver innovative work that addresses these challenges and reduces the global burden of disease.

This Master of Research (MRes) is a research-focused degree designed to train the next generation of researchers in infectious and tropical diseases. At the centre of the programme is a substantial research project of 9-10 months’ duration, through which you will become embedded within the research environment of LSHTM’s Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases.

The Faculty operates across laboratory- and field-based science, clinical medicine and population health. Its portfolio spans fundamental biology, clinical investigation and the translation of evidence into policy and practice. A wide range of MRes projects will be offered, drawing on this multidisciplinary expertise. Projects may also be undertaken, wholly or in part, with UK-based and international collaborators.

Alongside project work, you will develop your theoretical understanding through selected taught modules and participation in LSHTM’s research seminar programmes.

Key features

• Exceptional research training within a vibrant and world-leading research environment, providing strong preparation for PhD progression and research-led careers
• Research projects that address real-world health challenges to deliver global health impact
• Ability to undertake research with external partners in the UK and overseas
• Integration into a global community of scholars, practitioners and alumni, that enriches the programme and provides invaluable opportunities for networking and future employment

What you will learn

• Demonstrate a systematic and critical understanding of a subdiscipline of infectious and tropical diseases, with the ability to define and critically assess key challenges and current priorities.
• Understand the role of research in shaping policy and practice for the control, prevention and surveillance of infectious diseases.
• Develop the skills to design, conduct and communicate a rigorous research project that advances knowledge and understanding within the field of infectious diseases.

The research project that forms the core of this MRes provides direct experience of conducting original scientific investigation, alongside advanced training in research communication, study design, scientific integrity, research ethics, and the management and analysis of scientific data. You will be supported by a dedicated supervisory team of academic staff with recognised expertise in their respective disciplines.

This training is complemented by taught components that strengthen your theoretical understanding. Through engagement with LSHTM’s seminar programmes, you will gain exposure to the wider research community and develop an appreciation of multidisciplinary approaches to improving global health.

The research project

The research project is the defining component of this MRes. You will undertake an original piece of work within the Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases or with one of its national or international collaborators. A broad selection of projects will be offered, including projects related to:

• Molecular and cellular biology of infectious agents
• Host–pathogen interactions
• Clinical infectious diseases research and translational studies
• Infectious disease epidemiology and modelling
• Antimicrobial resistance and drug discovery
• Vaccinology
• Data science and quantitative analysis
• Implementation science and health systems research
• Translation of evidence into policy and practice

The portfolio of projects is available on the "MRes project" tab.

Who is it for?

This programme is designed for graduates with a strong interest in infectious diseases who wish to build a career in research, policy or practice. It is particularly suited to those from biomedical sciences, life sciences, medicine or related disciplines who want intensive, project-based training across the full research process - from ethical design and implementation through to analysis and reporting.

Students who enjoy interdisciplinary work and wish to apply advanced quantitative and/or qualitative methods to real-world health challenges will benefit most from this programme, equipping them with the skills to contribute to future strategies for the control of global infectious diseases.

Duration

One year full-time or two years part-time. Ways to study explained.

Please note: The part-time mode of study will influence the type of project work that is possible within the MRes. Any student wishing to enquire about part-time study and the potential research projects available should contact the Programme Director.

Intercalating study 

This programme is also ideal for medical students seeking to intercalate and gain a clear advantage in academic medicine. It provides a strong bridge between undergraduate medical training and clinical research through intensive, project-based research training and close mentorship from leading academics, building a solid foundation for future PhD study and/or a career as a research-active academic clinician.