BSc Cancer Biology

The new Cancer Biology degree (UCAS B130) starts in September 2008 and offers initially 25 students the opportunity to work with researchers and clinicians based at the North West Cancer Research Fund Institute and at hospitals in North Wales.

The degree is unique in Wales and related courses are only offered by two UK Universities.

It aims to allow undergraduates to pursue careers in the pharmaceutical industry and academic cancer research.

"Every week in the UK over 5,000 people are diagnosed with cancer," said Professor Nick Stuart, consultant medical oncologist at North West Wales NHS Trust.

"Added to this, the incidence of cancer in Wales tends to be higher than European average."

"We need to understand the fundamental mechanisms underlying this group of diseases in order to improve the treatments available for cancer sufferers and their survival," he added.

The students will learn key skills to help their future careers, said course director Dr Thomas Caspari.

"In addition to careers within the health service and cancer charities, cancer biologists are sought by a wide range of employers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries and in the fields of intellectual property management, business development, project management, public relations, fundraising and marketing," he said.

"The pharmaceutical industry spends around £9m a day on cancer research and development, and there are a cluster of such companies in this region, so it's vital that we produce graduates with the skills necessary for this industry."

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