Interview for Life Sciences Masters by Research MSc (Res)

When you complete your application form, you must upload three extra documents.

• Two letters of reference. These should be from two academics or employers who know your skills. These can speak to your suitability for the Masters by Research course, your academic progress and your work ethic.
• One letter of motivation. This should be a document written by you. It should detail the following:
  • why you are interested in this MSc by Research course
  • which three projects and supervisors you are interested in
  • a short explanation of why you are interested in these projects.

Your letter of motivation should have an 800-word limit.

These documents help our panel assess your application. Please upload the files under 'Other Information' > 'Supporting documents' on the application portal.

Shortlisting and interview

After you submit your application, our panel will review it and your supporting documents. If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited to take part in an interview. This may be online or in person.

The deadline for shortlisting outcomes is 1 March 2024.

If you are invited to interview, this will normally take place within two months of the application deadline. We would hope that interviews will take place starting in mid-March through to the end of March.

The interview itself will be with a panel of academics, including supervisors of the projects you have stated your interest in. This interview will normally consist of two to five people. You will be asked to give a short presentation on a scientific project you have previously worked on. The panel will then ask you questions about your presentation and your application. This will include your previous experience and more about your motivation for undertaking the course. You will also be asked to confirm how you intend to fund your degree.