Reproductive Sciences MScR

Level: Postgraduate research

Subject: Biological, Biomedical and Life Sciences

Year of entry: 2026

Study options

Full-time
  • MScR | 1 year | Start date: September 2026

Key facts

Programme website
PhD by Distance

Not available

School location

Edinburgh BioQuarter

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About the degree programme

The programme delivers cross-disciplinary training in a vibrant research environment to train skilled researchers uniquely equipped to capitalise on reproductive sciences to advance human health.

The programme is structured around:

  • two research projects, and
  • a research project proposal writing component

Successful advancement of reproductive health improvement relies on combining fundamental and translational research expertise in areas of:

  • reproductive sciences
  • cancer research
  • inflammation
  • developmental biology

You will study in a stimulating, multi-disciplinary and vibrant research environment., at the interface of fundamental  science and clinical research.

Who is this programme for?

This masters programme prepares you for a career in academia or industry, whether you have recently completed an undergraduate degree or are a professional wanting to pursue a career in research.

Study options

Our MSc by Reproductive Sciences is a one-year, full-time, on-campus masters programme.

The Reproductive Sciences MScR programme provided me with opportunities to develop practical lab skills that I was interested in, along with important professional skills.

I feel more prepared now to start my PhD at The University of Edinburgh and continue working in science. I would highly recommend this MScR to anyone looking to grow as a scientist in a supportive and engaging programme.

Yuko Sperry MScR Reproductive Sciences graduate (2025) and PhD student, Petitprez lab, IRR, The University of Edinburgh (2025 start).
Yuko Sperry

How to apply

Apply online via EUCLID

Applications for admission to the MSc by Research in Reproductive Sciences programme are submitted through the University’s online student application and record service EUCLID.

You do not need to complete your application in one session, as you will be able to save your application at any point in the process and return to it when you are ready to continue.

Application process information

You can find out more about the various aspects of the application process for postgraduate programmes on the University website:

Applying for postgraduate studies at The University of Edinburgh

If you have any questions about applying for our programme, please contact the programme team. 

Email the programme team

International students

If you are applying from outside the UK, our International Office can help ensure that you follow all the necessary application procedures.

Information for international applicants for postgraduate studies

When to apply

Applications for academic year 2026/2027 are now open. 

The application deadline is 24 June 2026.

The research programme application process is highly competitive with a limited number of places, and we make decisions on a rolling basis. We encourage you to submit as early as possible to ensure we can consider your application fully.

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: 

  • a personal statement(detailing why you are interested in joining our programme)
  • relevant knowledge/training skills

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

Personal statement

Your personal statement is an important part of your application. It will help us to decide whether you are good match for our programme and, just as importantly, whether our programme is right for you. Information about writing a personal statement can be found on the University web page linked above.

References

You must submit two recent references with your application.

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

Supporting information

You do not need to provide a research proposal to apply for this programme.

The application system will ask for one; please add the following sentence when prompted: 'Research projects will be chosen once the student has joined the programme'.

You can ignore any automatically generated emails requesting this information.

The online application process also asks for details on your research topic. Please provide details about your current research interests. This will not limit your choice of research projects once you are on the programme.

You do not need to identify a suitable supervisor as part of your application. 

A list of projects will be provided at the start of your studies.

Interview

As part of the application process, we invite competitive candidates for interview. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis, and no later than early July 2026. 

Interviews will be held via online video call (typically Teams).

Apply

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

After you apply

Once you have applied for this programme, you will be able to track the progress of your application and accept or decline any offers.

Checking the status of your application

We will notify you by email once we have made a decision. Due to the large number of applications we receive, it might take a while until you hear from us.

Receiving our decision

What to do if you receive an offer:

Once you apply for the masters programme, you may be invited for an interview. Successful candidates will then receive a formal offer, but you may still need to submit evidence of previous studies or other documentation to secure your place (conditional offer).

The programme typically organises an online Q&A session for offer holders where they can talk to current students, programme directors or course organisers to find out a bit more about the programme, living in Edinburgh, induction events, and other relevant topics.

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

Accommodation and living costs

You need to cover your accommodation and living costs for the duration of your programme.

We estimate that you might spend £1,167 to £2,330 per month if you are a single student.

Living costs include:

  • food
  • utility bills
  • travel, clothes, books and stationery
  • recreational costs (for example, TV subscriptions and social events)

Living costs

Accommodation costs depend on where you live while studying and the type of accommodation you choose.

University postgraduate accommodation options and costs

These entry requirements are for the 2026-27 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2027-28 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2026.

Qualifications

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a relevant biological, medicine or veterinary medicine discipline.

International 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
  • a degree that was taught and assessed in English
  • 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): total 92 with at least 20 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.
  • Trinity ISE: ISE II with distinctions in all four components.
  • Oxford ELLT: total 7 with at least 6 in each component.
  • 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)
  • Trinity ISE
  • 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

Research profile

This Masters by Research programme trains the next generation of experts in reproductive health.

The main components of the programme are two 18-week research projects, performed on a wide range of research fields within reproductive sciences and a project writing course.

You will undertake the research projects in different laboratories at IRR or collaborative centres and organisations. During your research projects you will become a fully integrated member of your supervisor’s research group and participate in, and contribute to lab meetings and other activities.

Research projects align with current research at IRR and the wider University around reproductive health and disease, including:

  • Gonadal function
  • Translational gynaecology
  • Pregnancy and early life

Institute for Regeneration and Repair 

The programme is based at the Institute for Regeneration and Repair (IRR). Researchers at IRR seek to understand stem cell biology, inflammation and disease to develop new therapies to heal damaged tissues and improve reproductive outcomes. 

IRR incorporates three world-leading research centres with a focus on regenerative medicine, inflammation and reproductive health. It is located on the Edinburgh BioQuarter site.

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Centre for Reproductive Health

The CRH is an interdisciplinary research and teaching hub, bringing together internationally renowned scientists and clinicians to push the boundaries of knowledge in reproductive biology and its practical applications in medicine.

The Centre’s research themes are broadly captured under the following three themes:

  • Gonadal function, including prenatal gonad and germ cell development, spermatogenesis, oocyte maturation and competence and fertility preservation.
  • Translational gynaecology, including pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding; endometriosis, adenomyosis and fibroids; contraception and abortion care; and reproductive cancers and cancer screening.
  • Pregnancy and early life, including stillbirth and preterm birth; maternal metabolic disorders and their impact on adverse fetal outcomes; in-utero programming

World-leading university

The University of Edinburgh is consistently ranked as one of the best 50 universities in the world.

Our worldwide reputation for teaching and research helps attract some of the international research community’s sharpest minds, which in turn means world-class teaching for you.

Embracing innovation and entrepreneurialism, and encouraging our people to push the frontiers of knowledge today, helps ensure we make a positive sustainable mark on the world tomorrow.

Why choose Edinburgh

Our research community

You will be embedded in the postgraduate student community at the Institute and welcomed onto the programme during our student welcome events at the start of the academic year. You will also take part in Welcome Week activities organised by the College and the wider university.

IRR and other institutes on the campus and other University sites boast active seminar series. These provide excellent opportunities to attend talks on a wide range of topics to further your academic knowledge and reflect about personal research interests and your career direction.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

The Institute for Regeneration and Repair (IRR) is dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and supportive research culture that draws upon the diverse perspectives of all its members. We align our efforts with the University of Edinburgh's research culture action plans and policies to ensure that well-being, equality, diversity, and inclusion are at the forefront of our activities.

Our commitment involves supporting every colleague, recognising the unique contributions each individual brings to our community. We actively promote an environment where all voices are heard and valued, encouraging collaboration and innovation.

To achieve our goals, we uphold principles of integrity, consideration, and respect, following the University of Edinburgh’s Behaviour Charter. We believe that a respectful and principled approach fosters a positive and productive research environment, enhancing the overall impact of our work.

By prioritising these values, IRR not only aims to advance scientific research but also to create a workplace where everyone feels empowered and engaged. Through ongoing reflection and adaptation, we strive to continuously improve our practices and support a thriving academic community.

The University of Edinburgh’s Behaviour Charter

Programme structure

The programme provides a core grounding in fundamental science and interlinked clinical translational aspects of reproductive health.

The programme is structured around:

  • two research projects
  • a research project proposal writing component
  • programme-specific masterclasses and journal club 

Research projects

The research projects are core components of the programme.

The research projects will provide you with training and practical experience of a wide range of current research tools and techniques in:

  • cellular and molecular biology
  • genetics and bioinformatics relevant for stem cell biology
  • developmental biology
  • inflammation research
  • regenerative medicine and tissue repair

The projects will also provide you with:

  • good research practice skills
  • scientific writing skills
  • analytical skills

You will undertake two 18-week research projects in:

  • laboratories at the Institute for Regeneration and Repair (IRR)
  • laboratories, GMP facilities or research offices of collaborating centres or organisations

You will:

  • Choose your projects from a list submitted by group leaders and professional experts, based around their current research and projects. Each research project contributes 80 credits towards the programme total of 180 credits.
    • We encourage students to explore their own project ideas with group leaders too.
  • Present your findings at group meetings, a poster day and talks, including at the IRR MScR science retreat.
  • Write up your project results as a dissertation to be submitted for formal assessment towards your MSc by Research degree.

Pathways of study 

You can choose one of two pathways of study:

  • Discovery Science pathway
  • Clinical Development pathway

On the programme you will receive training from experts working across the life cycle of cell and gene therapy development and production, ranging from discovery science and phase I/II clinical trials to manufacturing of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs).

Discovery Science pathway

If you choose the Discovery Science pathway, you will undertake both research projects in an academic research lab. 

Clinical Development pathway

If you choose the Clinical Development pathway, your second project will focus on real-life development and manufacturing scenarios for ATMPs to enhance your practical understanding of the cell and gene therapy production pipeline. This pathway was designed for IRR’s MScR Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Repair programme and has a focus on regenerative medicine, but students on the MScR Reproductive Sciences programme can also explore this pathway.

Project examples for the Clinical Development pathway include:

  • working on the product journey from proof of concept to the GMP suite
  • product scalability
  • quality control of ATMPs
  • ethics
  • ATMP manufacturing

Such projects help you gain an understanding of topics related to the applied science, manufacturing, Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Quality Assurance, and ethics and regulatory frameworks and practices in ATMP delivery that are crucial for the advancement of these therapies to the clinic.

Masterclasses and Journal Club

You will participate in masterclasses and an IRR MScR Journal Club that run throughout the academic year, typically on Friday mornings, 11am to 12.30pm at IRR.

Seminars

Throughout the academic year students can attend seminars at the Institute for Regeneration and Repair, and wider University, delivered by internationally-recognised experts in the field of reproductive health and related biomedical fields.

Skills development

You will gain a wide range of generic professional and scientific skills such as developing effective communication skills, critical appraisal, and scientific writing through research dissertations and a grant application. 

Postgraduate transferable skills courses are offered for free by the University’s Institute for Academic Development and University-wide LinkedIn.

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.

Support

You will be supported by a team of Postgraduate Administrators, Course Organisers, Supervisors and Programme Directors.

Facilities

Throughout your studies you will have access to a wide range of state-of-the-art research facilities at the Institute for Regeneration and Repair (IRR) and the training and support provided by dedicated Facility Managers.

IRR core technologies

Bespoke training is provided by facility managers and support staff including, but not limited to, the following core technologies:

Career opportunities

This programme is the ideal route for those wishing to embark on a PhD, explore a PhD as a career option, or work in:

  • a technical laboratory role
  • the field of reproductive sciences and health,
  • roles spanning the biosciences, clinical and veterinary fields

The broad range of skills gained is also readily transferable into careers at the clinical-laboratory interface and in the broader biosciences industry opportunities.

This MScR programme does not provide the qualification required to become a fully qualified clinical embryologist.

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

IRR community and wellbeing initiatives

The Institute for Research and Research (IRR) is committed to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for its staff and students. By focusing on community building and enhancing workplace health and wellbeing, IRR aims to become the best place to work. 

Key initiatives include wellbeing walks, yoga sessions, sustainability efforts, and the People and Culture Forum.

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

Academic contact

Aga Wysocka

IRR Postgraduate Administrator CRH

  • School of Regeneration and Repair
  • Centre for Reproductive Health
  • Postgraduate Administration

Contact details

Address

Institute for Regeneration and Repair
Edinburgh BioQuarter
5 Little France Drive
Edinburgh
EH16 4UU

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