Human Embryology and Developmental Biology

Human Embryology and Developmental Biology is the modern synthesis of biological and medical sciences that looks at how our bodies are built. It investigates the remarkable process in humans and animals that turns a single fertilised egg into a whole new individual with many specialised cell types.

Why Aberdeen?

You will receive a broad and multifaceted training in modern biomedical sciences, ranging from traditional morphology and embryology to the latest molecular and bioinformatics approaches in genetics, cell biology and biotechnology. Research in Human Embryology and Developmental Biology is central to the search for cures for many human genetic diseases, including cancer, and is at the forefront of recent advances in modern medicine. You will be trained in embryology, reproductive biology (including fertility/IVF science), stem cell technology, tissue regeneration, and the causes of, and cures for, human birth defects.

• Excellent facilities and expert staff teaching a broad spectrum of subjects in modern biology
• Emphasis on medically-relevant developmental genetics and stem cell technology
• Hands-on laboratory training at the forefront of current research in developmental biology and stem cell technology
• Training provided in both specialist and transferable employment-related skills

Programmes

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

First Year

Students take courses in Chemistry and Medical Sciences (including a first taster of Developmental Biology and a closer look at the cell), plus additional courses selected from the wide range available.

Second Year

Courses introduce the broad foundation for Human Embryology and Developmental Biology, from the Biology of Molecules and Genes to the Biology of Cells and Whole Organisms. Core research skills are taught, and students complete a project on a developmental disease or embryological topic of their choice.  Students have a choice of other science courses ranging from Biochemistry and Anatomy & Physiology to Zoology and Environmental Biology.

Third Year

Students are provided with an in-depth study of Embryology, Birth Defects and Developmental Biology in courses that focus on the Principles of Developmental Biology, on Early Embryogenesis (Patterning the Embryo), on the Development of Organ Systems, Reproductive Biology and Developmental Genetics. Additionally, they will be trained in the Core Molecular Technologies for Biologists for the modern research laboratory.

Fourth Year (Honours)

The focus of taught courses is on special aspects of Developmental Biology, such as Stem Cell Technology and Regeneration (including IVF), the relationship between Evolution and Developmental Biology and the Development of the Nervous System alongside an advanced training in cell and molecular biology. The Honours course features a ten-week full-time research project, which provides the opportunity to carry out original research, using state-of-the-art technology alongside postgraduate and postdoctoral staff.

Teaching and Assessment

In the early years, teaching involves attendance at lectures, practicals and tutorials. In the later years, a rather greater proportion of students’ time is taken up in private study, laboratory or library work relating to particular projects.

Careers

The Human Embryology and Developmental Biology degree offers particularly good prospects for research careers in academia, industry and hospitals, because of its broad training in medically-relevant modern biology with many transferable skills. Many of our graduates follow their degree with PhD research in a wide range of laboratories. Others move into positions in hospital research, fertility sciences, diagnostic laboratories, research institutes, and in administrative capacities in the civil service or in the pharmaceutical and related industries. Alternatively, the degree may lead on to careers such as teaching, publishing and even marketing.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Human Embryology and Developmental Biology.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - BBBB*
A Levels - BBB*
IB - 30 points, 5 at HL*
ILC - BBBB*
*Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/Science subjects.

Advanced Entry - Advanced Highers ABB or A Levels ABB, or IB 34 points (6 at HL), including Biology and Chemistry, one of which musy be at A-grade.

For further details of entrance requirements click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide