Integrative Neuroscience MScR

Level: Postgraduate research

Subject: Biological, Biomedical and Life Sciences

Year of entry: 2027

Study options

Full-time
  • MScR | 1 year | Start date: September 2027

Key facts

School

Edinburgh Medical School

College

College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine

School location

Multiple campuses

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About the degree programme

The MSc by Research in Integrative Neuroscience is an intensive, research-focused programme designed for students preparing for a PhD or research-facing career in neuroscience. The programme offers broad training across the major disciplines of modern neuroscience, from molecular and cellular mechanisms to development, neural systems, behaviour, cognition, computation and neurodegenerative disease.

Students begin with a taught component that combines neuroscience training, specialist option courses and research skills development. This is followed by either two 12-week research projects or one extended 24-week project within Edinburgh’s neuroscience research community. Through these projects, students work within active research groups and gain experience in formulating research questions, applying experimental or analytical approaches, interpreting data and communicating their findings.

A distinctive strength of the programme is its engagement with the wider Edinburgh Neuroscience community, which includes research groups working across diverse areas of neuroscience, model systems and methodological approaches. Depending on project availability and student interests, students may gain experience with experimental, computational and analytical methods, including different model systems, imaging techniques, behavioural assays and disease-relevant research.

Throughout the programme, students develop skills that are central to a research career, including:

  • critical evaluation of the literature
  • scientific writing
  • data analysis
  • poster and oral presentation
  • preparation of research proposals and dissertations 

This combination of broad neuroscience training and substantial project-based research experience makes the programme particularly suitable for students aiming to progress to doctoral study or other research-focused careers.

Rankings

  • 20th in the world for Life Sciences and Medicine (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2027).
  • Edinburgh is ranked the 7th best student city in Europe and 15th in the world.
  • Top 10 in the UK for the employability of our graduates (Times Higher Education, Global Employability University Rankings 2026).
  • 4th in the UK for research power (2021 Research Excellence Framework).

Why choose this programme

  • Gain first-hand experience in pioneering research areas such as neurodegeneration and cognitive neuroscience. Work alongside leading scientists in state-of-the-art facilities, using the latest technologies and methodologies that define today’s neuroscience landscape.
  • Benefit from close mentorship and supervision by internationally acclaimed experts in neuroscience. Our faculty members are not only educators but also active researchers who contribute significantly to their fields, offering you insights and guidance based on the latest scientific discoveries.
  • ​Designed to seamlessly transition you into doctoral studies or research-centric careers, the programme’s rigorous training and comprehensive research opportunities equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in academia or industry.
  • ​Conduct your studies and research within the University of Edinburgh’s renowned research facilities. The University provides a vibrant research community and access to cutting-edge resources, enhancing your learning and research activities.
  • Earn a qualification that is respected worldwide. Graduates from the University of Edinburgh are highly sought after due to the institution's reputation for academic excellence and its rigorous, research-oriented programmes. This recognition opens doors to international career opportunities and collaborations in the neuroscience field.

Thinking about a PhD but not sure you're ready to commit? Our Masters by Research students explain how the programme helped them build the skills, independence and confidence to take the next step.

I  knew  I  was  interested in  getting  more  research  experience. I  also  knew  that  I didn't  have  much  to  start  with. I  wasn't  ready  for  a  PhD  yet, so  I  wasn't  ready  to tie  myself  down  like  that. When  I  did  my  undergraduate, there  were  some  skills  which I  had  not  developed  as  much. The  Master's  by  Research is  very  much  focused  on  undertaking cutting  edge  research  within  a  research  group that's  doing  world  leading research  here  in  Edinburgh, and  that  gives  a  student  the opportunity  to  really  see how  small  parts  of a  project  build  towards a  much  bigger  picture. The  cohort  has  been  really  awesome, especially  considering  we're all  doing  different  projects, and  our  experiences  are incredibly  unique  to  each  other. So  I  really  liked  the  availability of  choice  and  adaptability. These  are  different  kinds  of projects.  They're  a  little  bit  longer. They  might  be  a  bit  riskier, but  that's  what  real  science  is  like. But  the  masters  gives  them a  flavour  of  different  research  areas, different  research  approaches, different  research  topics. From  day  one,  I  really felt  like  I  was  a  part  of  the  group, and  my  work  mattered. I  was  given  very  good  guidance  starting  out, but  I  also  managed  to gain  independence  throughout  each  project. Throughout  this  degree,  I've become  more  of  a  researcher  or investigator  than  I  felt  as  a  student when  you  start  in  the  lab and  you  work  with  your  supervisor, coming  up  with  the  project  was more  of  a  collaborative  experience. You're  learning  a  lot  and you're  taking  in  a  lot  of  information, but  you're  also  being  asked to  ask  the  questions. There  is  more  freedom  to think  about  how  things  were  planned, but  also  more  responsibility associated  with  that. All  of  a  sudden, I  started  to  think  back  at  all  the  work I  had  done  and  all  the  learning  I  had  done, and  I  realised,  Wow,  actually, I  can  apply  for  a  PhD and  I  can  take  on  that  challenge. It's  honestly  the  best  city  to  move  to. I  was  not  expecting  it  to be  so  inclusive  and  warm, and  Edinburgh  itself, the  university  just  provides a  lot  of  opportunities  to  meet  people. So  this  is  the  opportunity  to decide  whether  it's  the  right  thing  for  you, because  a  PhD  is  a  big  step. The  masters  is  a  good  time, maybe  to  give  yourself the  confidence  to  think, yes,  I  can  do  that,  two  different  projects, and  that  builds  towards the  idea  that  in  your  PhD, you're  going  to  need  that  resilience, but  it's  a  great  thing  to  do.

This Integrative Neuroscience MScR has been a highly enjoyable experience in an amazing city with some of the best researchers. The taught element gives an overview of everything neuroscience has to offer and is followed by 6 months of research, so you can fully immerse yourself in the world of a research scientist. It has given me new skills and experiences I will take forward for my future career and has confirmed my passion for research. I would highly recommend this course and it has helped me to gain a PhD studentship for the coming year.

Emma Green MScR Integrative Neuroscience, graduated 2020

How to apply

You apply online for this programme. After you read the application guidance, select your preferred programme, then choose 'Start your application' to begin.

If you need help with submitting an application online, you can access a series of walkthrough videos along with further support.

Submitting your online application

What to do if you are unable to apply online

When to apply

Due to high demand, we operate a number of selection deadlines for this programme.

Applicants who are not made an offer at a specific selection deadline will either be notified that they have been unsuccessful in securing a place on the programme, or that their application will be carried forward to the next selection deadline for further consideration at that time.

Selection deadlines for 2027/28

RoundApplication deadlineDecision date
11 February 202726 February 2027
22 April 202730 April 2027
32 June 202730 June 2027

If you require a visa, we recommend that you apply in the first two rounds.

We encourage you to apply as soon as possible so that we have enough time to process your application. This is particularly important if you are also applying for funding or will require a visa. Applications may close earlier than published deadlines if there is exceptionally high demand.

For an application to be reviewed, it must be a complete application by the application deadline with all supporting documentation uploaded, including references and transcripts.

If you already have evidence that you meet the English language entry requirements, such as via an approved English language test, please upload this evidence at the time of your application. If you have not already met your English language requirements, please upload that evidence as soon as you have it.

Application fee

There is no fee to apply to this programme.

What you need to apply

As part of your online application, you will need to provide: 

When completing the online application form, you are not required to complete a research proposal or supervisor at this stage. Please enter 'Not Applicable' in this section on the application form.

You will also need to provide some or all of the following supporting information and documents:

When you start your application, you will be able to see the full list of documents you need to provide.

You will select your first research project after the programme starts. Please ignore any automatically generated emails requesting this information from you during the application process.

References

You must submit two references with your application.

Apply

Select the award, duration and delivery mode you want to study. Then select the start date you want to apply for.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme

If you need to apply for a student visa, you may need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme clearance certificate in order to study this programme.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme

Funding

Funding for postgraduate study is different to undergraduate study, and many students need to combine funding sources to pay for their studies.

Most students use a combination of the following funding to pay their tuition fees and living costs:

  • borrowing money
    • taking out a loan
    • family support
  • personal savings
  • income from work
  • employer sponsorship
  • scholarships

Explore sources of funding for postgraduate study

If you live in the UK, you may be eligible for a postgraduate loan for study from one of the UK’s governments.

You should check that your chosen programme is eligible for the funding you want to apply for.

View details: UK government loans

Search for other funding opportunities

You can find scholarships, bursaries and other funding you might be eligible for on our Scholarships and Student Funding site.

Postgraduate funding opportunities

Tuition fees

Tuition fees by award and duration

Tuition fees for full-time and part-time options are listed for one academic year.

Full-time

Graduate discount

If you are a University of Edinburgh graduate, you will be eligible for a 10% discount on your tuition fees for this programme. You may also be eligible if you were a visiting undergraduate student.

Find out how to receive your graduate discount

Costs

Additional programme costs

In addition to tuition fees, your programme is subject to additional programme costs of £3,000.

This contributes to fund a wide variety of costs associated with conducting your research projects, which could include aspects such as:

  • research consumables and model systems 
  • data access/linkage 
  • facility access charges 
  • fieldwork costs
  • computing resources

You will need to confirm the source of funding or arrange payment for these costs along with tuition fees as part of the student registration process. 

More information on student academic fees

Accommodation and living costs

You will need to pay for your accommodation and living costs (such as rent, food and utility bills) for the duration of your programme.

For 2026-2027, we estimate that it will cost an average of £18,504 each year (£1,542 each month) to live in Edinburgh as a postgraduate.

The exact amount you spend will depend on different factors, especially the accommodation you choose.

Living costs: estimates explained 

These entry requirements are for the 2027-28 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2028-29 academic year will be published in early Oct 2027.

Qualifications

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in biological or biomedical sciences (including neuroscience or psychology) or a medical, dental or veterinary degree. 

Students from China

A minimum of 80% awarded by a university on our Priority List or a minimum of 85% from any recognised university. 

Your degree must be in a subject specified under 'Qualifications' (if any). 

Priority List of Chinese universities 

Some of our masters degree programmes receive high volumes of applications and therefore admission is very competitive. We may consider a degree awarded by an institution on our Priority List as more competitive in these circumstances. 

Degrees jointly awarded by Chinese and UK universities 

If your degree was taught in China and jointly awarded by a Chinese and a UK university, you must meet our entry requirements with the grades that you achieve from each institution. 

If you have studied on a 2+2 programme and transferred to a UK university to complete the second half of your degree, your final grades must meet our entry requirements for UK qualifications.

International equivalent qualifications

To find international equivalent qualifications, select where you studied from the country or region list.

English language requirements

You must prove that your English language abilities are at a high enough level to study this degree programme.

This is the case for all applicants, including UK nationals.

You can meet our English language requirements with one of the following:

  • an English language test (restrictions apply)
  • a degree that was taught and assessed in English (restrictions apply)
  • certain professional qualifications

English language tests we accept

We accept any of the following English language tests, at the specified grade or higher:

  • IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
  • TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition) before 21 January 2026: total 92 with 23 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
  • TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition) from 21 January 2026: total 4.5 with at least 4.5 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
  • C1 Advanced (CAE) / C2 Proficiency (CPE): total 176 with at least 169 in each component.
  • Oxford ELLT: total 7 with at least 6 in each component. We do not accept Oxford ELLT Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
  • Oxford Test of English Advanced: total 145 with at least 135 in each component.
How old your English language tests can be
Tests no more than two years old

The following English language tests must be no more than two years old on the 1st of the month in which your programme starts, regardless of your nationality:

  • IELTS Academic
  • TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition)
  • Oxford ELLT
  • Oxford Test of English Advanced
Tests no more than three and a half years old

All other English language tests must be no more than three and a half years old on the 1st of the month in which your programme starts, regardless of your nationality.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English-speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration.

UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English-speaking countries (non-MESC).

Approved universities in non-MESC

How old your degree can be

If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old on the 1st of the month in which your programme starts.

This time limit does not apply to your degree if you are a national of a majority English-speaking country.

Find out more about our English language requirements

Find out about other English language qualifications we accept, including professional qualifications.

English language requirements

Programme structure

This MScR programme is a full-time, 12-month programme, beginning in September and ending in August the following year. Successful MScR candidates graduate in November/December of the following year.

You are required to be on campus from the Thursday on Welcome Week of Semester 1 (the week before Week 1). 

Our MScR includes:

  • A taught component from September to December, which includes lectures on many different areas of neuroscience, specialist option courses, and generic skills training.
  • Two 12-week research projects between January and August, or one 24-week research project.

Semester 1, Taught (September – December)

This MScR has a taught component with a compulsory 'Review of Neuroscience' course (themed weeks) running in parallel with option courses. 

You will also develop general/core skills that support your research training, including scientific presentation, writing, data analysis and research design.

Review of Neuroscience course

This compulsory course, which runs across Semester 1, covers topics in many different areas of neuroscience, such as:

  • neural development
  • neurodegeneration and regeneration
  • synaptic physiology
  • C. elegans as a model in neuroscience
  • neural circuits for cognition
  • motor disorders
  • neuroscience of pain and touch
  • cognitive neurology
  • neuroimaging
  • neuroinformatics
Option courses

You will take one of four option courses, allowing you to specialise in a particular area of interest.

Option courses run on two half days a week. These courses provide a deeper insight into the concepts and methodology of a specific field of interest.

Option courses may include:

  • neural dynamics
  • neurobiology of behaviour
  • neurodegeneration and regeneration
  • neurodevelopment disorders

Option course availability will be subject to student numbers. While every attempt will be made to allocate you to your preferred course choice, we cannot guarantee this if demand is high.

We encourage you to check the course details for timetabling and location information, as courses are taught at a number of sites across the University.

General/core skills training

You will take part in skills sessions or workshops to support your assessments and research training. Topics normally include poster presentation, scientific writing, research ethics and the legal frameworks for animal research in the UK, experimental design, data analysis, and/or statistics.

Semester 2 and Summer, Research projects (January - August)

Between January and August, you will conduct either two 12-week or one 24-week neuroscience research project. 

You may choose from the available projects or contact principal investigators from the Edinburgh Neuroscience community to arrange a project. The Edinburgh Neuroscience community comprises more than 150 world-leading neuroscience groups covering interests spanning different levels of analysis, from genes to cognition, across the life course, in health and disease. 

There is no need to arrange projects in advance, as projects will be advertised after the programme starts.

Find out more about the Edinburgh Neuroscience community

Research Project 1 (January – April)

By the end of Semester 1, you will have arranged your first 12-week project. This project may continue as Project 2, effectively making it a 24-week project. Alternatively, you can start a new project for Project 2.

There are two assessments related to Project 1:

  • research proposal: developing a proposal in a research area related to Project 1
  • poster presentation: summarising the research conducted during Project 1
Research Project 2 (May to August)

During the Summer period, you will start a second project or continue with Project 1. 

There are two assessments related to Project 2:

  • dissertation
  • oral presentation summarising your research project
Neuroscience Conference

During the programme, students normally have the opportunity to attend a neuroscience conference such as Edinburgh Neuroscience Day and/or a national neuroscience conference, depending on timing and availability.

Field trip

Semester 1 normally includes a trip to foster team building and help students to get to know one another early in the program. The trip also provides an opportunity to develop group-working and presentation skills.

Lake and mountains
Previous students have attended a field trip in Firbush Outdoor Centre.

Assessment

Learning objectives and assessments are structured so that you are encouraged to produce everything a working scientist would be asked for in their research, including:

  • group poster presentation
  • short review of a topical research paper in neuroscience
  • poster and oral presentations
  • research proposal
  • oral presentation
  • dissertation

Learning outcomes

  • To gain an overview of neuroscience as a discipline.
  • To gain experience and exposure to contemporary methods and techniques used in neuroscience research.
  • To gain instruction in good laboratory practice.
  • To gain training in a quantitative approach to the investigation of problems in neuroscience.
  • To be trained and practice in analysis and oral presentation of scientific data and research papers.
  • To be able to design, execute and report original research.

Our academic staff

Teaching is delivered by academic staff who provide an outstanding research-led learning experience and encourage individual academic development.

Find out the aims and structure for each year of study on this programme.

Full-time

We link to the latest information available. This may be for a previous academic year and should be considered indicative.

Taught courses

Semester 1 features the taught component of the programme, comprising lectures on different areas of neuroscience such as the Review of Neuroscience course, specialist option courses, and generic skills training.

The rest of the programme from January to August will focus on your research training, where you undertake either one 24-week research project or two 12-week projects.

Support

You will have access to a range of support services if you need them throughout your degree.  

We will assign you to a student adviser, and this should be the first person to contact if you need help. They can guide you to other University service teams depending on what support you need.  

How we support you

Facilities

You will conduct your studies and research within the University of Edinburgh’s renowned research facilities, with access to cutting-edge resources and a vibrant research community.

Career opportunities

This programme is designed to help you develop a career in research. Many graduates proceed to study PhDs in Edinburgh and elsewhere. Positive next destinations also include medical study, teaching and research assistant posts or science communication roles.

Graduates from the University of Edinburgh are highly sought after due to our reputation for academic excellence and our rigorous, research-oriented programmes. This recognition opens doors to international career opportunities and collaborations in the neuroscience field.

Graduate profiles

The Integrative Neuroscience MScR is an incredible programme that immerses you in the impressive Edinburgh Neuroscience community through both taught elements and your own research. The taught component allows you to learn about the vast range of research areas, models, and techniques used in Edinburgh's cutting-edge neuroscience research, while also giving you the chance to collaborate with your peers. 

The 6-month research project enables you to develop practical skills across a variety of techniques and to grow into a more independent researcher. I highly recommend this programme — it confirmed my desire to continue in research, and the connections I made within the research community have directly helped me take the next step in my career by finding my PhD.

Britt Van De Gevel MScR Integrative Neuroscience, graduated 2023

Careers Service

Our Careers Service can help you to fully develop your potential and achieve your future goals. 

The Careers Service supports you not only while you are studying at the University, but also for up to two years after you finish your studies. 

With the Careers Service, you can: 

  • access digital resources to help you understand your skills and strengths
  • try different types of experiences and reflect on how and what you develop
  • get help finding work, including part-time jobs, vacation work, internships and graduate jobs
  • attend careers events and practice interviews
  • get information and advice to help you make informed decisions 

Visit the Careers Service website 

Accommodation

We guarantee an offer of University accommodation for all new, single postgraduate taught students from outside the UK and new, single postgraduate research (typically PhD) students who:

  • apply for accommodation by 31 July in the year when you start your programme
  • accept an unconditional firm offer to study at the University by 31 July
  • study at the University for the whole of the academic year starting in September

University accommodation website

Accommodation guarantee criteria

We also offer accommodation options for couples and families.

Accommodation for couples and families

If you prefer to live elsewhere, we can offer you advice on finding accommodation in Edinburgh.

Accommodation information from the Edinburgh University Students' Association Advice Place

Societies and clubs

Our societies and sports clubs will help you develop your interests, meet like-minded people, find a new hobby or simply socialise.

Societies

Sport Clubs

The city of Edinburgh

Scotland's inspiring capital will form the background to your studies — a city with an irresistible blend of history, natural beauty and modern city life. 

Find out more about living in Edinburgh

Health and wellbeing support

You will have access to free health and wellbeing services throughout your time at university if you need them.

The support services we offer include: 

  • a student counselling service
  • a health centre (doctor's surgery)
  • support if you're living in University accommodation
  • dedicated help and support if you have a disability or need adjustments

Health and wellbeing support services 

Disability and Learning Support

General enquiries

For general enquiries about the programme, please contact the Programme Administrator:

Debbie Grahames

Doorway 3, Old Medical School, Teviot Place

University of Edinburgh

Neuroscience.MSc@ed.ac.uk

Academic contact

Dr Szu-Han Wang

Programme Joint Director

  • Institute for Neuroscience and Cardiovascular Research
  • College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine
  • University of Edinburgh

Contact details

Dr Maria Doitsidou

Programme Joint Director

  • Institute for Neuroscience and Cardiovascular Research
  • College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine
  • University of Edinburgh

Contact details

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