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Postgraduate Prospectus Entry 2010-2011

Lancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YW

Tel: +44(0) 1524 65201

www.lancs.ac.uk

www.lancs.ac.uk

Parts of this prospectus can be made available on audio cassette on request for peoplewith visual impairments. For more information please contact the Disabilities Service.

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www.lancs.ac.uk

Lancaster UniversityLancasterLA1 4YW

Tel +44(0)1524 65201Fax +44(0)1524 592065

www.lancs.ac.uk

POSTGRADUATEOPEN DAYWednesday 01 December 2010www.lancs.ac.uk/pg-openday

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Postgraduate Prospectus 2011-12

Parts of this prospectus can be made available on audio cassette on request for people with visual impairments. For more information please contact the Disabilities Service.

The Management School 129

Economics

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Professor Bradley is a specialist in EducationEconomics. In particular he focuses his work oneconomics of secondary schooling, including theinvestigation of the effects of quasi-market forcesin secondary education, and the educational gendergap.

“I look at issues related to the operation of theyouth labour market, like the causes of youthunemployment, employer selection and recruitmentand the econometric evaluation of youth trainingprogrammes. I have also analysed areas such as theeffects of introducing market forces into thesecondary education. My current research interestsfocus on skill formation in the youth labour market,the determinants of educational attainment and theanalysis of transitions in the adult labour market.”

“The Department of Economics has a diverse range ofresearch interests spanning a wide area of theoreticaland applied issues, looking at areas such as laboureconomics, financial economics and internationaltrade. Consequently our students have the opportunityto draw on a really strong research base.”

“We have a consistently strong reputation for highquality teaching and personal attention to studentsat all stages of their study.”

Research DegreesMPhil/PhD

Taught CoursesMSc/MRes/PgDip in Money,Banking and Finance MSc in Quantitative Finance

Number of Postgraduate Students58

Head of DepartmentProfessor Ian Walker

Enquiriestel: +44 (0)1524 510733fax: +44 (0)1524 510739e-mail: [email protected]

Professor Steve Bradley

The Management School

Websitewww.lums.lancs.ac.uk/departments/economics

LocationThe Management School

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The Department of Economics is one of the largestdepartments within the Management School andcomprises six professors, seven senior lecturers and tenlecturers. We have an established tradition of researchand teaching over a wide range of specialisms. Ourpostgraduate taught programme consists of theMSc/MRes in Money Banking and Finance and the MScin Quantitative Finance. MPhil and PhD research degreesmay be undertaken in the subject area of internationalbusiness, human resource economics, economic theory,macroeconomics, international economics and financialmarkets.

TAUGHT COURSES

MSc/MRes/PgDip in Money, Banking and Finance

Director of Studies: Dr Ivan Paya.Duration: 12 months full-time. Entry Requirements: An upper second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent. A good understanding ofeconomics and statistics is required. Overseas applicantsmay be required to take the Princeton Graduate RecordExamination in Economics (GRE) or GMAT. Assessment: Combination of coursework, examination and dissertation (research proposal for the MRes).IELTS: 7.0 min or TOEFL 600 (paper-based test), 250(computer-based test), 100 (internet-based test).Funding: Departmental Scholarships, LUMS Scholarships -see also page 213.Further Information:www.lums.lancs.ac.uk/departments/economics

This programme has been specially designed for graduatesin economics or related degrees to equip them with theskills, knowledge and technical capabilities to enter careersin the banking and financial sectors. In addition, theprogramme provides an excellent preparation for a PhDapplication. The programme blends economic theory,advanced quantitative methods with an analysis of financialmarkets and discussion of the institutional framework ofthe money and banking sectors. This programme isdelivered by a mix of highly-experienced and prominentacademics as well as professionals. The total number of

students admitted each year to the programme averages25. This enables us to maximise the benefits of relativelysmall group teaching and ensure a high level of staff-student interaction.

A variety of teaching methods are used including lecturesand discussion sessions, group work, class presentations,statistical computer lab sessions and case studies.

The programme aims to equip you with:• an understanding of key issues in banking, foreign

investment and financial markets • an ability to understand some of the models and

mathematic techniques used in monetary and financial economics

• an ability to work as a team member, to produce strong presentations and reports

• an ability to present oral and written work.

Course StructureYou are required to take the core modules listed below andtwo out of seven optional modules.

Michaelmas Term Core ModulesTopics in Economics Applied EconometricsFoundations of FinanceFinancial Markets and Securities

Lent TermCore ModulesEconomics for Money, Banking and FinanceInternational Banking and Risk Management

Optional ModulesIslamic BankingInternational Money and FinanceBehavioural FinanceAdvanced Corporate FinanceAdvanced Investment FinanceFinancial Statement AnalysisFinancial Econometrics

The schedule of optional modules may vary according to theavailability of teaching staff and the demand for the modules.

Economics, Associate Dean forPostgraduate Teaching

Employability

Our graduates havebecome establishedin multinationalbusinesses, financialinstitutions,governmentdepartments anduniversities.

Summer TermThis period is used by our MSc students for work on theirdissertation, and by our MRes students on their detailedresearch proposal. A research topic for the dissertation ischosen during the second term in consultation with theDirector of the MSc programme. Each individual student isassigned to a supervisor on the basis of their expertise onthe topic selected. The dissertation provides MSc studentswith an opportunity to analyse a research theme in depthand apply research techniques and relevant economic theory.The dissertation also includes a taught module consisting ofcomputer lab sessions dedicated to familiarising you withthe appropriate technical software.

MSc in Quantitative Finance

Director of Studies: Dr Jill Johnes.Duration: 12 months full-time.Entry requirements: An upper second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in a quantitative subject.Assessment: Combination of coursework, reports andexamination plus dissertation.IELTS: 7.0 or TOEFL 600 (paper-based test), 250 (computer-based test), 100 (internet-based test).Funding: Departmental Scholarships, LUMS Scholarships -see also page 213.Further information: www.lums.lancs.ac.uk/masters/

This programme has been specifically designed for graduatesfrom quantitative degrees, who have no background ineconomics or finance, but who would like to pursue a careerin the areas of banking or finance. On this programme youwill acquire, enhance and apply advanced analytical,problem-solving and technical skills to the analysis of riskand return in a range of financial institutions and specialistDepartments in large corporations. Through the corecourses, you will acquire and develop a number oftransferable skills. These skills include using computer-basedsources of financial information, and applying thisinformation in various contexts such as: data analysis andforecasting; computer programming; using statistical andeconometrics software; and financial analysis. The choice ofoptional courses provides you with the opportunity tospecialise in an area which is of specific interest or which isparticularly relevant for your career objectives.

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Management Schoolwww.lums.lancs.ac.uk


TAUGHT COURSES

MA in Management and Consulting

Director of Studies: Dr Kiran Trehan.Duration: 12 months full-time. Entry Requirements: An upper second class honoursdegree, or equivalent. Work experience in management,management education, consultancy, human resourcedevelopment or administration would be advantageous. Assessment: Combination of coursework assignments,group work and dissertation.IELTS: 7.0 or TOEFL 600 (paper-based test), 250 (computer-based test), 100 (internet-based test).Funding: ESRC, LUMS Scholarships, DepartmentalScholarships - see also page 213.Further Information: www.lums.lancs.ac.uk/masters/ma-management-consultancy/

Our established, international programme is specificallydesigned to help individuals convert to or strengthencareers in management consultancy, HRD, training,development and management education. It is also relevantfor those with experience wishing to review their practiceand deepen their knowledge.

For those who wish subsequently to continue to PhD, theprogramme provides exposure to both qualitative andquantitative research methods necessary for those seekingESRC PhD funding.

This programme investigates three central themes: HRDand Organisational Learning, which concentrates onknowledge management, organisational processes andstructures within which managers operate; ManagementLearning and Leadership, which focuses on the individual

development of managers and leadership development inboth education and work settings, and Consulting, whichdevelops the understanding and capabilities necessary forworking with individual and organisational change.

StructureThe first two terms are based on a series of core moduleswhich focus on distinct aspects of management, leadershipand organisational learning, such as:

Corporate Management Development Design and Dynamics for LearningEvaluationHRD and Management LearningInternational Management LearningLeadership DevelopmentNetworked LearningOrganisational Diagnosis and Consulting Organisational Learning and Knowledge ManagementResearch

The whole programme is learner-centred and the content ofeach module aims to take account of (a) your interests andexperiences, and (b) the broad range of knowledge andresearch in management, leadership and organisationallearning.

In addition, you are helped with your professional,academic and personal development needs through smalllearning groups, dedicated reading and writing time, andby giving formal and informal presentations on the findingsof your projects and dissertations. Specific time will also beallocated to developing those skills which enhanceprofessional practice (such as presentation andcommunication, research and consultancy, facilitation andinterviewing skills, and teamwork).

Management Learning and Leadership

Management Learning and Leadership - NetworkedManagement Learning

“My focus is on understanding how theoretical debatesthat exist around notions of critical management learningand constructionist approaches to learning together withchanges and advances in ICT impact on the nature andexperience of learning. I am particularly interested inexploring ideas about the way experiences of relationaldialogue contributes to the construction of a learner’sonline identity, including what we learn about ourselvesand how we view knowledge and our position in the world.”

“DMLL was the first department of its kind in UK/Europeand has been at the forefront in establishing the field ofManagement Learning as an international research areaand focus within Business and Management Studies. Ithas consistently contributed to work in the area throughits teaching and learning programmes as well as throughits research activities. The Department sees its researchand teaching as inter-related, with many of its staffpublications being on learning and pedagogy as well ason organisational learning. In addition it has recentlyadded research on Leadership to its interests, where itsprincipal strengths lie in critical sociological and actionresearch approaches to the nature of leadership and‘followership’, and leadership for sustainability.”

“The educational aim of its Masters programmes is todevelop critically reflective learning and developmentpractitioners. A key feature is the importance placed onincorporating students’ current concerns and experiences,whilst also drawing on developments in research. Itseducational approach is informed by experiential learningmethodology based on notions of self-development, self-managed learning and a mutually assisting andsupportive learning community.”


Taught CoursesMA in Management and ConsultingMA in Management Learning and LeadershipMA in Leadership for Sustainability


Head of DepartmentProfessor Vivien Hodgson

Enquiriestel: +44(0)1524 594019 or 01524 594016e-mail: [email protected]

Professor Vivien Hodgson


Websitewww.lums.lancs.ac.uk/departments/DML


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The Department of Management Learning and Leadershipis the leading academic centre in Europe solely committedto the critique and improvement of managementeducation, management development and leadershipdevelopment, which various government reports haveidentified as crucial to a nation’s economic needs for highcalibre managers and leaders. It was founded withfunding from the Foundation for Management Education(FME) and has very close links with industry andcommerce. It has played a leading role in defining anddeveloping the field of Management Learning at bothnational and international level.

The Department has a strong reputation amongstacademics around the world, which is maintained throughnumerous research publications, conferences, and anetwork of international contacts.

Our programmes are suitable for managers, managementdevelopers, trainers, teachers and consultants who areprofessionally concerned with two areas: the managementof learning (enabling individuals and organisations tolearn); and the learning of management/leadership(enabling individuals and organisations to learn betterways of managing and leading whatever they are inbusiness to do).

Participants on our suite of postgraduate programmes aresupported in setting their own priorities for learning andfocusing on topics of relevance to their current or futurepractice. They have choice about the issues they wish toexplore, the method of study and are encouraged tounderstand critically their own practice (through exposureto other practitioners and developers within a learningcommunity which facilitates its own learning). They alsolearn to take a critical perspective on the nature ofmanagement education and leadership development bothin ‘education’ and ‘work’ settings. In each of thesesettings consideration is given to policy and operationalconcerns.

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MSc in Finance

Director of Studies: Professor Steven Young.Duration: 12 months full-time. Entry Requirements: An upper second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in finance, accounting, economicsor other business related subject. Applications may also beconsidered from graduates in non-business areas with strong quantitative backgrounds or professionally qualifiedaccountants with good examination records. GraduateManagement Admissions Test (GMAT) score often requiredfor non-U.K. qualifications. Assessment: Combination of coursework, examination and dissertation.IELTS: 7.0 min or TOEFL 600 (paper-based test), 250(computer-based test), 100 (internet-based test).Funding: British Council Awards, LUMS Scholarships - see also page 213.Further Information:www.lums.lancs.ac.uk/departments/accounting

This programme provides advanced study of finance. Asthere is no generally recognised professional qualification infinance, it is particularly suitable for graduates inquantitative subjects who wish to prepare for careers in thefinancial sector, and it provides a suitable advancededucation in finance for good graduates from a wide rangeof disciplines. Many holders of the MSc are now employedin banks and financial institutions in the UK and worldwide.Others have entered careers in higher education andresearch.

Michaelmas TermYou take the following modules:

Introduction to Quantitative MethodsIntroduction to FinanceIntroduction to AccountingIntroduction to Financial MarketsQuantitative Methods for FinanceFoundations of FinancePrinciples of Financial ReportingFinancial Markets

Lent Term You take three or two from the following modules:

Financial EconometricsAdvanced Corporate FinanceAdvanced Investment Management

Plus one or two from:

Financial Statement AnalysisFinancial Reporting for Complex EntitiesManagement Control SystemsDerivatives PricingInternational Money and FinanceFixed Income Markets

Summer TermYou take Advanced Topics in Finance, which is assessed by adissertation.

MRes in Accounting and FinancialManagementMRes in Finance

Director of Studies: Dr Martin Widdicks.Duration: 12 months full-time. Entry Requirements: An upper second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in finance, accounting, economicsor other business related subject. Applications may also beconsidered from graduates in non-business areas with strongquantitative backgrounds or professionally qualifiedaccountants with good examination records. GraduateManagement Admissions Test (GMAT) score often requiredfor non-U.K. qualifications. Assessment: Combination of coursework, examination and dissertation.IELTS: 7.0 min or TOEFL 600 (paper-based test), 250(computer-based test), 100 (internet-based test).Funding: ESRC, British Council Awards, LUMS andDepartmental Scholarships - see also page 213.Further Information:www.lums.lancs.ac.uk/departments/accounting

The MRes is based on the respective MSc but includesadditional assessed quantitative research methods modules.All students who achieve a certain required standard will beallowed to register as PhD students in the following year.Please see our departmental webpages for further information.

PgDip in Accounting and FinancialManagement PgDip in Finance

Director of Studies: Professor Steven Young.Duration: 9 months full-time. Entry Requirements: An upper second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in finance, accounting, economicsor other business related subject. Applications may also beconsidered from graduates in non-business areas withstrong quantitative backgrounds or professionally qualifiedaccountants with good examination records. GraduateManagement Admissions Test (GMAT) score often requiredfor non-U.K. qualifications. Assessment: Combination of coursework, examination and assignment.IELTS: 7.0 min or TOEFL 600 (paper-based test), 250(computer-based test), 100 (internet-based test).Funding: British Council Awards, LUMS Scholarships - seealso page 213.Further Information:www.lums.lancs.ac.uk/departments/accounting

Please note that these Postgraduate Diplomas are notpreparatory programmes for the Masters.

These programmes are based on the taught components ofthe MSc in Accounting and Financial Management and MScin Finance respectively, as described above. Content differsfrom that of the Masters programmes in that PostgraduateDiploma candidates take only a part of the Summer Termmodule, and are required to submit an assignment insteadof a dissertation. Candidates registered for a Diploma donot have an automatic right to transfer to a Mastersprogramme. However, a candidate who obtains asufficiently high standard in the Michaelmas and Lent Termmodules may be permitted to transfer to a Masters degree,which will involve the preparation of a dissertation.

The Management School124

MSc in Money, Banking and FinanceMSc in Quantitative FinancePlease see entry under Economics.

RESEARCH DEGREESWe welcome suitably qualified candidates for MPhil/PhDinterested in conducting research in any of our main areas ofacademic specialisation. It may also be possible to arrangesupervision in topics outside these areas; where appropriate,this may involve registration on the Management School’sinter-disciplinary PhD in Management programme.

MPhil/PhD

Entry Requirements: Normally a relevant Masters degreegained at distinction level or with an overall score of at least70%. In rare cases, students possessing a ‘research-relevant’upper second or first class Bachelor’s degree may be entereddirectly into the research degree programme. GraduateManagement Admissions Test (GMAT) score often requiredfor non-U.K. qualifications. An interview may also berequired.Assessment: Original research and thesis.IELTS: Typically 7.0 or TOEFL 600 (paper-based test), 250(computer-based test), 100 (internet-based test).Funding: ICRA, ESRC and University Studentships - see also page 213.Further Informationwww.lums.lancs.ac.uk/departments/accounting

Both the MPhil and PhD degrees are awarded aftersuccessful completion of research training, directed studyand a thesis. The broad objective of the research trainingoffered is to develop researchers capable of taking uppositions as academic teachers and researchers in leadinguniversities, or intellectually and technically demandingpositions in business and the public sector. The programmesare designed to produce graduates with the specialist skillsand insights necessary to become productive researchers ofinternational standard. They are also aimed at providing asufficiently wide perspective on finance, accounting andother management areas to enable scholarly discourse acrossa range of areas beyond their immediate researchspecialisms. The communication and presentation skillsnecessary for effective dissemination of research andteaching are also emphasised in the programmes.

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Accounting and Finance

“Want a career in Finance and land the perfect job?The MSc in Finance at Lancaster UniversityManagement School is the right course for you. Youwill be taking all aspects of Finance, from FinancialMarkets to Financial Statement Analysis, while takinginto consideration how investment banks treat themarket. The course can be seen as a sort of ‘FinanceMilitary Service’ from day one till the end of thecourse. But once you start it, you’ll know that yourbrain is acquiring every single Finance subject andyour career is starting to build up. As for me, this isexactly what I wanted: to be an expert in Financewith a great career start.”

“Thanks to Lancaster University’s name and prestige,I got a job in New York City with accounting andconsulting firm Iridium Consulting. I worked as abusiness analyst with clients like HSBC, JP Morganand various hedge fund companies. Then I joinedRoyal Bank of Scotland in London as an analyst intheir Leveraged Finance team.”

“In my opinion, this course is a success because theprofessors are passionate about what they’re doing.At Lancaster University, the professors, teachers andlecturers are always ready to assist students, not onlywith the course materials but with career guidanceas well. A careers service is available for students. Ithelps you with CVs, cover letters, applications andinterviewing skills.”


Taught CoursesMSc in Accounting and FinancialManagement MSc in FinanceMSc in Money, Banking and FinanceMSc in Quantitative Finance MRes in Accounting and FinancialManagementMRes in FinancePgDip in Accounting and FinancialManagementPgDip in Finance


Head of DepartmentProfessor Mark Shackleton¡Postgraduate Enquiriestel: +44 (0)1524 510733fax: +44 (0)1524 510739e-mail: [email protected]

Rudy Saadi MSc FinanceCountry of origin: LebanonEmployer: Royal Bank of Scotland, London


Websitewww.lums.lancs.ac.uk/departments/accounting


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Many holders of the MSc have progressed to seniorpositions in the accounting profession and industry. Othersare now faculty members in universities in the UK andthroughout the world.

Michaelmas TermYou take the following modules:

Introduction to Quantitative MethodsIntroduction to FinanceIntroduction to AccountingIntroduction to Financial MarketsQuantitative Methods for FinanceFoundations of FinancePrinciples of Financial ReportingFinancial Markets

Lent TermYou take three or two from the following modules:

Financial Statement AnalysisFinancial Reporting for Complex EntitiesManagement Control Systems

Plus one or two from:

Financial EconometricsAdvanced Investment ManagementDerivatives PricingInternational Money and FinanceFixed Income MarketsAdvanced Corporate Finance

Summer TermYou take Advanced Topics in Accounting, which is assessedby a dissertation.

TAUGHT COURSES

MSc in Accounting and FinancialManagement

Director of Studies: Professor Steven Young.Duration: 12 months full-time. Entry Requirements: An upper second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in finance, accounting, economics,business studies, mathematics or another quantitativesubject. Applications may also be considered fromprofessionally qualified accountants with good examinationrecords. Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT)score often required for non-U.K. qualifications. Assessment: Combination of coursework, examination and dissertation.IELTS: 7.0 min or TOEFL 600 (paper-based test), 250(computer-based test), 100 (internet-based test).Funding: British Council Awards, LUMS Scholarships - see also page 213.Further Information:www.lums.lancs.ac.uk/departments/accounting

This programme provides advanced study of accountingand financial management. It enables professionallyqualified accountants to take stock of what they havelearnt in practice, and helps able graduates to extend theiracademic training to the frontiers of knowledge in thosedisciplines. It is aimed at providing the theoreticalframework and skills that accountants and financialmanagers need in order to cope with the increasinglycomplex and global nature of accounting and financialmanagement. It provides a valuable foundation for thosecontemplating careers in areas, such as investment bankingand financial analysis, which are likely to involve extensiveuse of accounting information.

Lancaster University’s Department of Accounting andFinance takes pride in its long-established reputation forexcellence in both teaching and in research. Staff in ourDepartment have high, international-level reputations bothin research and in teaching and include editors of severalmajor academic journals. Members of the Departmentpublish regularly in academic journals of internationalrenown and provide consultancy services to governmentand industry. Many faculty members also have internationalteaching experience and have established themselves asacademic leaders in their fields of expertise.

We offer a comprehensive and well-established portfolio ofpostgraduate programmes. The programmes include theMSc in Accounting and Financial Management, the MSc inFinance and the MPhil and PhD research degrees. Twopostgraduate diplomas are also offered. We also run theMSc in Money, Banking and Finance and the MSc inQuantitative Finance in conjunction with the Department ofEconomics.

In addition, we offer our MRes programmes which aredesigned specifically for aspiring PhD students. MResregistration is also available for MSc students who attain ahigh level of performance in Term 1.

Our research resources include a Financial ComputingLaboratory and access to major databases, including CRSP,Compustat, Datastream, LSPD, Global Access, and high-frequency FX, LSE and options prices.

We are closely associated with the International Centre forResearch in Accounting (ICRA), an independently fundedunit located next to the Department.

The Department is the co-ordinator of a major EU-fundedResearch Training Network, The European IFRS Revolution:Compliance, Consequences and Policy Lessons with ninepartner institutions across nine European countriesincluding the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, Germany andSpain.


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School of Health and Medicine 113

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RESEARCH AREAS

Within Health Research there are research clusters in the

following areas: end of life care, disability studies, mental

health, public health, organisational well-being and ageing.

End of life care research is hosted within the International

Observatory on End of Life Care, led by Professor Sheila

Payne. Established in 2003 the team of social scientists and

clinicians located here seek to impact the development of

hospice and palliative care in the following areas: Patient

and Carer Experiences (Professor Sheila Payne, Dr Iris

Fineberg, Dr Katherine Froggatt, Dr Anne Grinyer, Dr Sarah

Brearley) Clinical Interventions specifically pain management

(Professor Mike Bennett) Service evaluations (Professor

Sheila Payne, Dr Iris Fineberg) Public and Professional

Engagement (Dr Iris Fineberg, Dr Katherine Froggatt).

Disability studies are hosted within The Centre for

Disability Research (CeDR), a specialist research grouping

that promotes and conducts high quality interdisciplinary

research and research-led teaching about disability. CeDR

was formally established in January 2008 under the

direction of Professor Carol Thomas and co-directors

Professor Chris Hatton and Dr Bob Sapey (Applied Social

Studies). Key foci of research include disability studies

(Professor Carol Thomas) and learning disabilities (Professor

Eric Emerson, Professor Chris Hatton, Dr Janet Robertson).

Mental health research activity is focused within the

Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research which was set

up at Lancaster University in February 2008 to conduct

research to develop, test, disseminate and implement

clinically effective psychosocial interventions for mental

health problems. The Centre has a major focus on

translational research into psychosocial interventions to

improve clinical outcomes for people with bipolar disorder

(Professor Stephen Jones, Dr Fiona Lobban, Paul

Hammersley). Further mental health research focuses on

abnormal psychology, emotional and cognitive disorders (Dr

Jane Simpson, Dr Craig Murray, Dr Rachel Msetfi).

Health equity research focuses upon health inequalities

and equity issues looking specifically at macro-social

determinants of health and health inequity (Professor Jennie

Popay, Dr Sarah Mallinson, Dr Paula Holland).

Organisational health and wellbeing develops research

regarding the evidence base to consider workplace stress

and wellbeing (Professor Sue Cartwright).

Ageing studies currently address issues of older people and

new technologies, older people health and the environment,

mental health and mental wellbeing amongst older people

and preparing for a healthy old age (Professor Christine

Milligan, Dr Katherine Froggatt, Professor Sheila Payne).

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PhD in Palliative Care

Director of Studies: Dr Sarah Brearley.

Duration: 48-84 months part time (distance e-learning

with one residential per year).

Entry Requirements: Applicants must hold a first degree

or have equivalent experience.

Assessment: Combination of taught modules, original

research and thesis.

IELTS: 6.5

Funding: See page 213.

Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/

The PhD in Palliative Care provides opportunities for people

working in palliative, hospice and end of life care, in the UK

and internationally, to undertake advanced study. The aim is

to create leaders in palliative care, promote the

development of advanced knowledge and practice, develop

critical understanding of policy and practice and enhance

scholarship and research skills.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises 2 years of taught modules

delivered predominantly by distance e-learning, alongside 1

short residential per year at Lancaster University. The focus

includes research design, development and analysis

alongside policy, practice and organisational change and

development in a palliative care context. Years 3-5 are

spent undertaking a research project at the student’s own

location with supervision from Lancaster University staff.

PhD in Organisational Health and Well

Being

Director of Studies: Professor Susan Cartwright.


with one short residential per year).


in a relevant subject and have relevant work experience.

Assessment: Combination of taught models, original


IELTS: 6.5

Further information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/

Workplace Health and Well Being has increasingly been

recognised internationally to be a key driver in socio-

economic progress. The PhD in Organisational Health and

Well Being provides opportunities for individuals, in the UK

and internationally, who wish to gain a deeper and more

critical insight into the psychological, social and

organisational aspects of the dynamic relationship between

work and health and also to become autonomous

researchers in the development of new knowledge in this

field. The doctorate is likely to appeal to individuals with an

interest in the promotion and creation of healthy workplaces

including human resource professionals and managers,

occupational health/public health practitioners, health care

workers and applied/organisational psychologists. This part-

time, distance e-learning programme has been designed to

meet the needs of professionals wishing to enhance their

research skills, develop their understanding of policy and

practice and make an original contribution to knowledge

development within their field, whilst at the same time

fulfilling their existing responsibilities.

Programme Structure



short residential per year at Lancaster University. The taught

modules address the interaction between the work

environment and health, organisational change and

development and research methods. Years 3-5 are spent

undertaking a research project and thesis at the student’s

own location with supervision from Lancaster University staff.

PhD in Public Health

Director of Studies: Dr Paula Holland.


with 1 residential per year).


or have equivalent experience.

Assessment: Combination of taught modules, original


IELTS: 6.5

Funding: See page 213.

Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/

The PhD in Public Health provides opportunities for

professionals working within the field of public health, in

the UK and internationally, to gain a deeper and more

critical insight into their practice, whether they are based

within healthcare settings, within local government,

education, research or management. This part-time,

distance e-learning programme has been designed to meet

the needs of public health professionals wishing to enhance

their research skills, develop their understanding of policy

and practice and make an original contribution to

knowledge development within their field, whilst at the

same time fulfilling their existing responsibilities.

Programme Structure



short residential per year at Lancaster University. The taught

modules include both the theory and practice of public

health (health protection, health promotion and policy),

commissioning, research methods and epidemiology. Years

3-5 are spent undertaking a research project and thesis at

the student’s own location with supervision from Lancaster

University staff.

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School of Healthand Medicine

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School of Health and MedicineDean of SchoolProfessor Tony Gatrell

Associate Dean for PostgraduateStudiesDr Fiona Benson

Associate Dean for ResearchProfessor Peter Diggle

School of Health and Medicine

DivisionsBiomedical and Life SciencesHealth ResearchMedicineCETAD (Centre for Training andDevelopment)

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Over the last decade there has been a significant expansionin the area of health and medicine at Lancaster Universityleading to the establishment of the School in August 2008.Staff in the School have attracted over £12 million inresearch funding, and benefit from facilities range fromrecently refurbished laboratories and equipment inBiomedical and Life Sciences to the Clinical AnatomyLearning Centre in Medicine. Much of the research withinthe school is related to fundamental issues, with majorresearch topics including the study of end-of-life care,disability, cancer biology, mental health, ageing and neu-rodegenerative disease, public health and microbiology,biostatistics and epidemiology. Alongside this, the Schoolhas important partnerships with colleagues in otherfaculties of the University that carry out related research in,for example, medical ethics (Law), NHS leadership(Management School), disability studies (Applied SocialScience) and environment and health (LancasterEnvironment Centre). The School also has strong links withNHS partners, health-related industries and the voluntarysector, as well as many multi-disciplinary researchcollaborations worldwide.

The School currently has more than 400 postgraduatestudents enrolled for programmes that span the breadth ofour teaching and research interests.

The School is undergoing rapid growth and potentialapplicants for postgraduate study are strongly advised to

consult the website for current information:www.lancs.ac.uk/shm

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2008 RAE Staff in the School were entered into three units of assessment:Biomedicine rated 1st in the UK (UoA12, Allied Health Professions)Biostatistics/epidemiology rated 11th in the UK (UoA 22, Statistics)Health Research rated 13th in the UK (UoA 40 Social Work and Social Policy)

Lancaster University established the School ofHealth and Medicine in 2008. The Schoolcomprises the divisions of Medicine, Biomedicaland Life Sciences, Health Research, and CETAD(Centre for Training and Development). TheSchool provides a unique blend of biomedical,medical, and social science expertise, whichunderpins a portfolio of high quality, innovativeand flexible postgraduate programmes. Ourprogrammes provide opportunities forlife scientists, medically qualifiedgraduates and professionals working inhealth and medicine to undertake postgraduate study at all stages during their career development.


In addition to the MPhil/PhD, the Divisions of Medicine, andof Biomedical and Life Sciences, offer the Doctor ofMedicine Degree scheme. This provides opportunities forclinically qualified candidates to undertake a two-year(Doctoral Level) research project at Lancaster. Our linkswith Liverpool Medical School and many NHS trusts providea wide range of opportunities for medically-relatedresearch. Candidates are supervised by both an academicmember of staff in Medicine or Biomedical and LifeSciences, and a clinical supervisor. The School also offersprogrammes in Clinical Research and Medical Leadership formedically qualified graduates.

Areas of current research interest are described in theDivisional entries. Note that some of these areas span morethan one Division. Joint supervision across two Divisions isarranged as and when appropriate.

While preserving traditional disciplinary strengths we seeconsiderable advantages in bringing together researchersfrom different disciplinary backgrounds, since contemporaryapproaches to health and medicine typically demandexpertise from scientists with different perspectives. Thismeans that although postgraduate students in the Schoolare associated with a specific discipline, they also work withmultidisciplinary teams of researchers. This broadens theirbackground knowledge, puts the work they do intoperspective and ensures that they are well equipped to dealwith modern work environments in which teamwork iscritical. Our courses are delivered in several ways, includingcampus-based, distance/e-learning, blended, or workplace-based learning. Postgraduate students are also a vital partof our vibrant research culture and take part in seminarsand postgraduate symposia.

The School also provides undergraduate medical teaching(MBChB) in collaboration with the University of Liverpool,the Universities of Cumbria and Central Lancashire, and theUniversity Hospitals of Morecambe Bay Trust.

RESEARCH DEGREES

MPhil/PhD

Entry Requirements: Applicants should hold an uppersecond class honours degree, or its equivalent, in anappropriate subject. Assessment: Original research and thesis.IELTS: 6.5Funding: Research Councils, Lancaster University, Charities.Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/

Applications are welcomed for PhD and MPhil degrees inany of our main areas of research.

As a research student, you will be directly involved in themainstream research of the School. You will receivespecialised training relevant to your research topic andmethodology, and will be encouraged to take part in arange of more generic courses such as teaching skills,statistical methods, computing and languages. You will alsobe encouraged to attend and present lectures and posters atconferences both within the UK and overseas; recently,students have attended conferences in the USA andAustralia as well as various European countries.

Doctor of Medicine (MD)

Director of Studies: Dr Paul McKean.Duration: 24 months full-time.Entry Requirements: Applicants must (i) hold a medical or dental qualification which is recognised by the GeneralMedical/Dental Council for the United Kingdom, (ii) musthave held this qualification for at least three years by thedate of submission, and (iii) must be employed during theirperiod of registration in appropriate clinical or scientific work in hospitals or institutions associated with theuniversity, within the local NHS region.Assessment: Original research and thesis.IELTS: 6.5Funding: See page 213.Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/

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Biomedical and Life Sciences

Professor Allsop’s research and postgraduateteaching focuses on neurodegenerative diseasessuch as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease,Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, Huntington’s disease,motor neuron disease, and other relateddisorders.

“My research is concerned with the mechanism offormation and deposition of protein aggregatesin these various diseases, and on the potentialrelationship between protein aggregation, neu-rodegeneration and cell loss. I am very interestedin novel approaches to improved diagnosis andtherapy of these diseases, and have been able toestablish links with industrial collaborators inthese areas.“

“In the Biomedical and Life Sciences Division weare responsible for the co-ordination ofbiomedical research activities and strategy atLancaster University and research into a diverserange of topics such as cancer biology, neurode-generative disease, microbiology, cell biology andbiochemistry and reproductive immunology. Thisyear we look forward to making furtherimprovements to our excellent biomedicalresearch facilities and laboratories.”

Research DegreesMPhil/PhD MSc in Biomedical Science (byResearch)Doctor of Medicine (MD)

Taught CoursesMSc in Biomedicine MSc in Medical Biotechnology andLeadership


Head of DepartmentDr Jane Owen-Lynch

Postgraduate Enquiriestel: +44 (0)1524 593936e-mail: [email protected]

Professor David AllsopBiomedical and Life Sciences

School of Health and Medicine

Websitewww.lancs.ac.uk/shm/bls/

LocationBiological Sciences Building

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Research carried out by the Biomedical and Life SciencesDivision is world class and ranked in the top 5% of itsdiscipline in the 2008 RAE. It benefits greatly from linkswith many NHS trusts and receives financial support fromThe Alzheimer’s Disease Society, Arthritis ResearchCampaign, BBSRC, MRC, The Colt Foundation, DEFRA,DoH, EPSRC, International Association for Cancer Research,Leukaemia Research Fund, North West Cancer ResearchFund, Parkinson’s Disease Society, Pfizer, TFC Frost Trust,Research into Ageing, Royal Institute for Prevention ofBlindness, The Royal Society, The EU, and The WellcomeTrust. Total grant funding over the past 5 years hasexceeded £5M.

Research includes neurodegenerative disorders,carcinogenesis, leukaemogenesis, eye disease, biochemicaltoxicology, immunology, microbiology and molecularparasitology as well as fundamental cellular andphysiological processes underlying human disease.

TAUGHT COURSES

MSc in Biomedicine

Director of Studies: Dr Nigel Fullwood.Duration: 12 months full-time, 24 months part-time.Entry Requirements: At least a second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in an appropriate subject. Assessment: Combination of coursework, presentations,examinations and dissertation.IELTS: 6.5Funding: Please see page 213.Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/bls/

The MSc in Biomedicine at Lancaster provides theopportunity for you to acquire a greater understanding ofpractical and theoretical biomedical science in the leadinguniversity in this field of research. The course is intended toprovide the knowledge and skills for subsequentprogression to PhD study, a career inbiomedical/pharmaceutical research (industry or universitybased) or hospital-based employment. Our scheme isdesigned to provide focus and training within several ‘hot’topics in biomedicine whilst still retaining elements offlexibility and choice.

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The MSc consists of compulsory modules (ResearchTechniques, Immunology, Microbes and Disease, Diseases ofthe Brain, Molecular Basis of Cancer) plus a six monthsupervised research project. In addition you can chooseoptional modules from a variety of other biomedicalmodules offered within Biology, Health, Physics and Maths.Staff from the local NHS Trust contribute a clinicalperspective within our programme.

MSc in Medical Biotechnology andLeadership

Director of Studies: Dr Nigel Fullwood.Duration: 12 months full-time, 24 months part-time.Entry Requirements: At least a second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in an appropriate subject. Assessment: Combination of coursework, presentations,examinations and dissertation.IELTS: 6.5Funding: Please see page 213.Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/

Introducing an innovative and multidisciplinary MScprogramme, offering advanced knowledge of thebiomedical technologies that are essential for the discoveryand validation of the next generation of medicines,diagnostics and devices. This course is designed forstudents with enthusiasm to combine research skills andproject management with an understanding of thecommercial exploitation of research. Case studies fromindustrial and clinical experts along with advanced topics inemerging therapeutics will be applied to an extendedresearch project that will not only include practical skills butalso involve developing management and leadershipcompetencies important for careers in translationalbiomedicine.

This programme is delivered by the Division of Biomedicaland Life Sciences in partnership with CETAD, the workbased learning centre within the School of Health andMedicine. The MSc consists of compulsory modules(Research Techniques, Drug Discovery and Development,Leadership and Team Strategies, Project Management) andoptional biomedical modules, plus a six month researchproject.

RESEARCH DEGREES

MSc in Biomedical Science (by Research)

Director of Studies: Dr Paul McKean.Duration: 12 months full-time, 24 months part-time.Entry Requirements: Applicants should hold an uppersecond class honours degree, or its equivalent, in biology,biochemistry, molecular biology or related subject. Assessment: Coursework as appropriate, and dissertation.IELTS: 6.5Funding: Please see page 213.Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/bls/

This degree provides a means by which you can gain an indepth knowledge of a particular area of biomedical researchand become familiar with general and specific researchmethods and laboratory practice. This is achieved by 9months full-time work in a laboratory as part of anestablished research group and some direct learning ofresearch methods by participation in the graduate trainingprogramme. This is followed by a 3 month writing up period,when a thesis will be produced, which will be the means bywhich the degree is assessed.

MPhil/PhD


Applications are welcomed for PhD and MPhil degrees in anyof our main areas of research. As a research student, you willbe directly involved in the mainstream research of the School.You will receive specialised training relevant to your researchtopic and methodology, and will be encouraged to take partin a range of more generic courses such as teaching skills,statistical methods, computing and languages. You will alsobe encouraged to attend and present lectures and posters atconferences both within the UK and overseas; recently,students have attended conferences in the USA and Australiaas well as various European countries.

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Dr Mort’s research interests lie in the field of healthscience and technology. She was recently involvedin groundbreaking research conducted by theDivision of Health Research into the human cost ofthe foot and mouth epidemic which hit the UK in2001.

“The research carried out by myself and colleaguesinto the long term effects of the Foot and Mouthcrisis revealed the extent of the often untoldhuman story of the foot and mouth diseaseepidemic. As a result of our research we were ableto make suggestions as to how disaster planningshould be handled and improved in the future.”

“Staff and students working and studying in thisarea come from a variety of social sciencedisciplines, including: sociology; human geography;psychology; and social history. Staff work withstudents in the School to create a deeperunderstanding of health and illness by examining itthrough the social sciences.”

Research DegreesMPhil/PhD Doctor of Medicine (MD)

Taught CoursesPgCert in Clinical Research


Head of DepartmentProfessor Anne Garden

Director of Postgraduate StudiesProfessor Colin Ockleford


Dr Maggie MortSenior Lecturer in Medicine

Websitewww.lancs.ac.uk/shm/med/

LocationFaraday Building

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The Division of Medicine was established in 2006. It deliversthe undergraduate medical degree, and is developing arange of new postgraduate courses and researchopportunities for continuing professional development.

TAUGHT COURSE

PgCert in Clinical Research

Director of Studies: Professor John Goodacre.Duration: 18-36 months part-time.Entry Requirements: Medical degree or equivalentprofessional qualifications.Assessment: Coursework.IELTS: 6.5Funding: NHS Trusts and other employers may be willing to sponsor places. Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/

This part-time programme has been developed to meet theneeds of professionals working and training within NHSsettings who wish to develop their research competenceand experience whilst at the same time fulfilling otherresponsibilities for professional training and development,and service delivery. It has been developed in consultationwith local NHS partners to ensure its relevance and value toNHS health professionals. Its distinctiveness lies in its noveldesign to encompass the complete research cycle, in itsoverall emphasis on supporting interdisciplinary and inter-professional working in the context of NHS research, and inits delivery by members of a School which has achievedinternational renown and recognition across thesedisciplines. The programme is modular, with a tiered-exitdesign providing 1- or 2-module awards as appropriate forparticipants who do not complete all 3 modules for thePgCert.


professionalism in medicine, health policy and politics,and the use of qualitative methods in health research(Prof Anne Garden, Dr Maggie Mort, Dr Dawn Goodwin).Recent projects include studies of complexity, risk andresilience in animal disease strategies, the health andsocial consequences of the 2001 UK foot-and-mouthepidemic (acquired and archived by ESRC as a “classicstudy”), understanding expertise in anaesthesia and thesocial construction of evaluation in telemedicine and tele-health care.

Current biostatistical and epidemiological research topicsinclude spatial and longitudinal data analysis,environmental and tropical disease epidemiology (ProfPeter Diggle, Dr Tom Keegan, Mr Barry Rowlingson, DrIvonne Solis-Trapala, Dr Tom Fanshawe). Recent projectsinclude risk of childhood cancer from living near highvoltage power lines and effects on soldiers of taking partin chemical weapons tests; disease risk mapping for theAfrican Programme for Onchocerciasis Control (APOC),forecasting and control strategies for meningitis epidemicsin sub-Saharan Africa, exposure measurement andmodelling for studies of environmental determinants ofdisease, early detection of incipient kidney failure inprimary care patients, and the integration of statisticalmodels with geographical information systems for real-time epidemiological applications.

In the medical sciences, current areas of research includeparasitology, DNA damage and repair, cellular andimmuno-pathology of the materno-fetal interaction,immunology of reproduction and musculo-skeletal disease(Prof John Goodacre, Prof Colin Ockleford, Dr Gill Vince,Dr Tim Doubell, Dr Karen Grant, Dr Howard Lindsay).Recent projects include study of development of thecostamere in dystrophic muscle, novel drug targets fortreatment of medically important protozoan parasites,advances in understanding the important role of theinnate immune system’s CD56- positive NK cells inrecurrent miscarriage and pathology of pre-eclampsia, andhow childhood diseases affect auditory brain development.

RESEARCH DEGREESApplications are welcomed for PhD, MPhil and MD degreesin any of our main areas of research.

MPhil/PhD



Director of Studies: Dr Paul McKean.Duration: 24 months full-time.Entry Requirements: Applicants must (i) hold a medical or dental qualification which is recognised by the GeneralMedical/Dental Council for the United Kingdom, (ii) musthave held this qualification for at least three years by thedate of submission, and (iii) must be employed during theirperiod of registration in appropriate clinical or scientific workin hospitals or institutions associated with the university,within the local NHS region.Assessment: Original research and thesis.IELTS: 6.5Funding: See page 213.Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/

RESEARCH AREASResearch in the Division spans social, biostatistical/epidemiological and biomedical models of inquiry, much ofthis undertaken in collaboration with other Divisions in theSchool, other Lancaster Departments and a range of nationaland international research partners.

Within the social science area, research interests includesocial studies of science and technology in clinical practice,disaster and recovery studies, medical education,


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Professor David Allsop, Dr Fiona Benson, Dr Ed Parkin andDr Jane Owen-Lynch.

Prof Allsop has a long-standing interest in Alzheimer’sdisease, particularly studying unusual protein deposits thataccumulate in the brain. One aim of his research is todevelop methods to enable early diagnosis of Alzheimer’sdisease. Prof Allsop and Dr Benson are also studying themechanisms of protein aggregation and cytotoxicity,processes that are fundamental to understanding diseaseprogression in Parkinson’s disease and motor neurondisease. The aim of these studies is to develop methods toprevent protein aggregation which may alleviate symptomsof these devastating diseases. Dr Parkin’s interest inAlzheimer’s disease specifically lies in the role of copper andthe proteolytic processing of amyloid precursor protein inrelation to disease pathogenesis. Dr Owen-Lynch’s interestsare at the other end of the age spectrum looking atdisorders of brain development, for example hydrocephalus,focusing on the role of cerebrospinal fluid in normal andabnormal development of the cortex.

Cancer BiologyResearch groups at Lancaster are investigating a number ofdifferent aspects of the molecular and cellular biology ofcancer including: cellular effects of exposure to carcinogensand ultraviolet light, DNA repair mechanisms, cell cyclecontrol, and the molecular events behind leukaemia.

Professor Trevor McMillan, Dr Jane Owen-Lynch, Dr HowardLindsay, Dr Fiona Benson, Dr Sarah Allinson, Dr RachaelRigby, Dr Sue Broughton, Dr Karen Wright, Dr Ed Parkinand Dr Clive Price.

Staff are engaged in various aspects of cancer research,including carcinogenesis induced by UV, ionising radiationand chemicals, and the molecular mechanisms ofleukaemogenesis. Dr Benson and Dr Allinson’s research isfocused on studying the fundamental mechanisms ofhomologous recombination and base excision repairemployed by human cells for repairing DNA damage,pathways essential for maintaining genome stability. DrPrice and Dr Lindsay study cell cycle control in modelorganisms such as yeast and Xenopus cell free egg extracts.One focus of this research is to gain a greater

understanding of the relationship between DNA damageand cell division, termed checkpoint control. This workutilises genetic, biochemical and cell biology approaches tostudy the function of the relevant proteins.

Dr Karen Wright and Dr Rachel Rigby’s research is focusedon understanding the physiology of the gastrointestinalepithelium as well as pathological conditions such asinflammatory bowel disease and cancer. Dr Wright’sresearch interests span the cellular and molecularmechanisms of the cannabinoid system in gastrointestinalepithelium and the translational aspects of realising thetherapeutic potential of cannabinoids in diseases such asCrohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis and colorectal cancer. Sheis currently developing a new model of intestinal tissueculture in partnership with physicians, surgeons andpathologists at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary. Dr. Rigby’sresearch interests lie in understanding the mechanisms ofintestinal epithelial cell (IEC) renewal and repair, focusing onthe role of Suppressor of Cytokine Signalling 3 incontrolling IEC homeostasis. She is currently investigatinghow bacterial signals may be linked to the dysregulation ofIEC repair seen in inflammatory bowel disease and cancer. .In collaboration with Dr Sue Broughton, she is alsodeveloping models of IEC barrier regulation in Drosophila inorder to study age-related changes in IEC function in vivo.Dr Parkin also has an interest in the role of ADAMsproteases in relation to cell proliferation and differentiation.

MicrobiologyThe microbiological research activities of the Division areaimed at a better understanding of the cell biology ofprotozoan parasites and yeast. In addition to its applicationto medical parasitology our work also exploitsmicroorganisms as models for understanding humancellular function.

Professor Roger Pickup, Professor Paul Bates, Dr PaulMcKean, Dr Jackie Parry, Dr Michael Ginger, Dr SteveRoberts and Dr Karen Grant.

Professor Paul Bates, Dr Paul McKean, Dr Karen Grant andDr Michael Ginger are part of an expanding molecularparasitology group within BLS. Professor Bates’ researchconcerns haemoflagellate parasites responsible for the

neglected tropical diseases leishmaniasis (oriental sore, Kalaazar) and trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness and Chagasdisease). Professor Bates is particularly interested in thedevelopment of tools to control these diseases (drugs andvaccines), the life cycle biology of Leishmania including themechanism of transmission by the sand fly vector, and themolecular biology of phlebotomine sand flies. DrMcKean’s research primarily involves the Africantrypanosome T. brucei, which is a pathogen of majorveterinary and medical importance in Sub-Saharan Africa.His studies are principally focused upon gaining a greaterunderstanding of cell division processes in this flagellatedprotozoan parasite with the aim of indentifying newchemotherapeutic approaches for controlling sleepingsickness. However, T. brucei is also a good model forstudying the assembly of the eukaryotic cilium/flagellumand work in the McKean laboratory is providing new insightinto a range of inherited human diseases characterised bydefective cilia; the human ciliopathies. Dr Grant also workson T. brucei and, Leishmania and works at the interfacebetween biology and chemistry. The aim of research carriedout in Dr Grant’s laboratory is to translate advances in basicbiological knowledge into the development of novel drugsagainst these major pathogens. Dr Ginger also works ontrypanosmatid parasites and is interested in how theseorganisms modulate metabolic activities in order tocomplete their complex life cycle within the nutritionallydifferent environments encountered in the mammalian hostand the insect vector.

Other members of the microbiology grouping are engagedin various aspects of research involving both prokaryoticand eukaryotic microorganisms. Professor Pickup works inthe field of ‘Environment and Human Health’ and isinterested in the role of non-tubercular mycobacteria inhuman disease and environmental routes through whichhumans are exposed to these bacterial pathogens. Currentresearch is examining the role of Mycobacterium aviumsubspecies paratuberculosis in Crohn’s disease, and possiblyin irritable bowel syndrome, particularly with respect toenvironmental cycling and human exposure. Dr Parrystudies the interactions between bacteria and protozoa(particularly amoebae). She is examining the reasons whysome ingested bacteria are digested while others are not.Un-digested bacteria can either be excreted or they can use


Director of Studies: Dr Paul McKean.Duration: 24 months full-time.Entry Requirements: Applicants must (i) hold a medical ordental qualification which is recognised by the GeneralMedical/Dental Council for the United Kingdom, (ii) musthave held this qualification for at least three years by thedate of submission, and (iii) must be employed during theirperiod of registration in appropriate clinical or scientificwork in hospitals or institutions associated with theuniversity, within the local NHS region.Assessment: Original research and thesis.IELTS: 6.5Funding: See page 213.Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/bls/

The Doctor of Medicine Degree scheme providesopportunities for clinically qualified candidates to undertakea two-year (Doctoral Level) research project at Lancaster.Our links with the Division of Medicine at Lancaster,Liverpool Medical School and many NHS trusts provide awide range of opportunities for medically-related research.Candidates are supervised by both an academic member ofstaff in Biomedical and Life Sciences, or Medicine, and aclinical supervisor.

RESEARCH AREASResearch within Biomedical and Life Sciences focuses on thestudy of molecular and cellular aspects of human healthand disease, using a range of biochemical and cellularapproaches to complement studies in model organisms.

Key areas of research include the molecular pathology ofneurodegenerative disease, fundamental mechanismsunderlying carcinogenesis, molecular microbiology andmedical cell biology.

Neurodegenerative DiseaseProgressive degeneration of the nervous system is a featureof a number of human diseases characterised by impairedmovement or cognition. Researchers in the Division arestudying the underlying processes that lead to braindysfunction and degeneration in conditions such asAlzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and hydrocephalus.


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the protozoan cell as a host for multiplication. The latter isconsidered a possible mechanism by which bacteria haveevolved into pathogens in the environment i.e. by practicingon amoebae, which behave similarly to macrophages of theimmune system. Dr Roberts is interested in the roles of iontransport proteins in fungal cell biology. The aim is to findion channels that may serve as biocidal targets, and tofurther understand the contribution of plasma membraneion channel proteins to cell growth and development.

Medical Cell BiologyThe grouping includes research groups whose work isfocused on applying biochemical and structural techniquesto understanding cellular function at its fundamental level.Particular research interests include corneal transparency anddysfunction, proteoglycan structure and function, thedevelopmental genetics of Drosophila and research intohealthy aging.

Dr Nigel Fullwood, Dr Bob Lauder, Dr Gavin Brown, Dr AlanShirras, Dr Jane Owen-Lynch, Dr David Clancy and Dr SueBroughton.

Dr Nigel Fullwood’s research centres on the eye andimproving treatment for corneal diseases, cornealtransplantation and gene delivery within the cornea. He isalso involved with the development of an artificial corneaand a vitreous substitute. He has a long standingcollaboration with Kyoto Medical University in Japan inprojects involving the ex vivo expansion and transplantationof corneal stem cells for clinical use. He is also currentlyworking closely with the spectroscopy company Renishaw inthe development of ultra-sensitive biomarker detectionsystems by using the latest developments in nanotechnology.

The glycobiology group at Lancaster comprising Dr GavinBrown and Dr Bob Lauder researches the structure andfunction of glycoproteins and proteoglycans, the latterhaving key roles in tissue organisation, cell adhesion, cellsignalling and host-pathogen interactions. A key objective ofthe work is to acquire a greater understanding ofproteoglycan involvement in a variety of disease processes

including the development of osteoarthritis, neurodegener-ative disease and vision impairment. In addition the groupcollaborates with Prof Allsop to investigate the role ofglycosylated alpha-synuclein in the pathogenesis ofParkinson’s disease, the roles of proteoglycans in amyloidformation and the production of synthetic glycolipids forincorporation into artificial plasma membranes.

Dr Alan Shirras, Dr Sue Broughton and Dr Dave Clancy formthe Drosophila research group. Because it shares so muchbiochemistry and genetics with humans, and because ofthe unparalleled utility of the genetic tools available, thefruitfly Drosophila melanogaster has proved exceptionallyuseful. Dr Shirras is studying the developmental genetics ofDrosophila melanogaster, with a particular interest inpeptide hormone and neuropeptide metabolism. Thefunctions of several processing enzymes are being studiedincluding the role of angiotensin - converting enzymehomologues in spermatogenesis and, with Dr Broughton, insleep regulation. Dr Broughton and Dr Clancy are seekingto understand the basic mechanisms which cause ageingand the genetic and environmental factors which determinelifespan, and are developing biological markers to monitorhealthy aging and aging related diseases. Individually, DrBroughton is examining the role of insulin/IGF-like signallingin central nervous system ageing, with particular emphasison age-related cognitive health and lifespan, and Dr. Clancyis manipulating candidate genes to extend healthy lifespan.

Dr Jane Owen-Lynch, in collaboration with colleagues inPhysics, studies the dynamics of ageing in thecardiovascular system, mainly at the level of the capillaries.Advances in sensor technology have opened up newapproaches for non-invasive monitoring of this blood flow.Recordings of e.g. the electrocardiogram (ECG), respiration,blood pressure, and blood flow signals can be acquired andstored for analysis by the application of a variety ofsophisticated algorithms. We now know that blood flow isoscillatory in nature and current work is focused on adetailed understanding of some of the components thatcontribute to this dynamic process through a study of theendothelial cells of the capillaries.

Health Research

Professor Sheila Payne BA(Hons), RN, Dip.N, PhD, C.Psychol, Help the Hospices Chair in Hospice Studies,Director of the International Observatory on End ofLife Care, Lancaster University.

Professor Sheila Payne is a health psychologist, with abackground in nursing and over 20 years experience inacademia. Based in the End of Life Observatory Sheila’s post, (thefirst of its kind in the UK and supported since 2006 forfive years by the National Charity Help the Hospices) willlead important new research to help improve lives ofmany thousands of patients and families that depend onhospice care. She also co-directs the NCRI funded Cancer Experiences Collaborative for 5 years from 2006and since 2007 she has been Vice President of theEuropean Association for Palliative Care.

Sheila has a long track record in palliative care researchand scholarship. Her research agenda focuses on palliativecare, end of life care and bereavement support. Sheila hassupported over 20 PhD students and has been publishedwidely in academic and professional journals. She haswritten ten books and edits the “Health Psychology”book series published by the Open University press.

Research DegreesMPhil/PhDPhD in Palliative Care PhD in Public HealthPhD in Organisational Health and Well Being

Professional DoctoratesDoctor of Clinical Psychology(DClinPsy)

Taught CoursesMRes/PgDip/PgCert in Health Research(by Distance Learning)


DirectorDr Katherine Froggatt


for DClinPsye-mail: [email protected]

Professor Sheila Payne

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Websitewww.lancs.ac.uk/shm/dhr/

LocationAlexandra Square

The Division of Health Research conducts, represents andpromotes health-related research at Lancaster University andworks closely with individuals and organisations outside theUniversity who are themselves involved in health research,development and implementation.

It brings together over fifty academics whose research coversone or more of the following broad areas: end of life care,disability studies, mental health, ageing, organisational well-being and public health. Close links exist with other universitydepartments that also address areas of health research,including: Sociology, Geography, Psychology, Linguistics,Management Science, Behaviour in Organisations and theCentre for Gender and Women’s Studies. The Division actsas a focus for health research and its activity includes majorprogrammes of research funded by various funding bodies.This research programme involves collaboration with healthprofessionals in many organisations, and reflects the Division’sethos of conducting high quality academic research anddeveloping and implementing the outcomes of this research.

The Division has a number of research and teaching objectives.Developing research areas include health and place, healthinequalities, health and participation. Teaching objectivesinclude the development of new taught postgraduatecourses and health research training opportunities.

TAUGHT COURSES

MRes/PgDip/PgCert in Health Research(by Distance Learning)

Director of Studies: Dr Anne Grinyer.Duration: 12 months full-time, 24 months part-time (MRes); 18 months part-time (PgDip). Entry Requirements: A second class honours degree.Candidates who hold other equivalent academic and/orprofessional qualifications will be considered for entry if theycan provide evidence of the ability to undertake work atpostgraduate level.Assessment: Combination of coursework and researchproject/dissertation.IELTS: 6.5Funding: NHS Trusts and other employers may be willing to sponsor places - see also page 213.Further Information: www.lancs.ac.uk/shm/dhr/

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models, allowing for the control of highly nonlinear and

even chaotic systems. Practical applications include

construction and nuclear decommissioning robotics,

environmental control, motorway traffic networks, wave

energy converters and the Earth system under mitigation

for climate change. The group has developed a Captain

toolbox for time series analysis, forecasting and control.

Mobile Robots

Pioneering work on construction and decommissioning

robotics has included a project to demonstrate intelligent

rule-based control for digging machinery, which is an

international “first”. With support from JCB, a robot

excavator was developed which is capable of autonomous

operation. This work involves fundamental research in

computer control, sensor systems, drives, mechanism

design, and the development of intelligent knowledge-

based systems. Work has also included adding intelligence

to the world’s first heavy tool-deployment manipulator

designed for use in construction. Recent projects include a

double-arm manipulator designed for nuclear

decommissioning work.

Advanced Structures

The main focus of the research is on reinforced polymer

composites, and smart structures. Composite structures is

one of the principle research themes of the North West

Composite Centre – a collaborative venture involving the

universities of Lancaster, Manchester, Liverpool and Bolton.

The research is recognised internationally through strong EU

and US academic industrial contacts.

The research includes analysis of the performance of

structural grade GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) and HF

(Hybrid Fibre) composite profiles, made by pultrusion (an

efficient and economic composites manufacturing process),

which are widely used in secondary structures in aggressive

environments.

Micro and Nano Technology

The Centre for Microsystems Engineering at Lancaster

University is involved in research and development activities

in the fields of system-on-chip and microsystem test and

reliability engineering. The Centre works in partnership with

the Institute for Systems Level Integration in Livingston,

Scotland (www.sli-institute.ac.uk). The team have recently

built up expertise in the specific problems relating to the

integration of micro-technologies into highly integrated

systems; design methodologies and functions to aid

manufacture of Micro and Nano Technology based systems;

and the integration of test support functions into both

system-on-chip applications and microsystem devices. The

team lead a major European Network of Excellence in the

field of ‘Design for Micro and Nano Manufacture’ that

involves 24 laboratories across Europe.

Active projects currently running at Lancaster in this area

include a bio-MEMS project related to the development of

an integrated microfluidic sensor chip; design and test of

data converters; novel modelling and design techniques for

MEMS; modelling and analysis activities in nano electronic

system design; and nanomagnetism.

Sustainable Energy

Research into sustainable energy is an exciting field and one

where researchers realise they can make a difference to the

world. At a practical level, engineers at Lancaster are

involved in research projects capturing the renewable

energy of sea waves, hydropower and tidal currents. They

are investigating the potential for renewable energy in NW

England and developing micro-generation systems that

could bring electricity to the third world. This work is

undertaken in collaboration with industry and consortia of

universities and is supported by a combination of European

and UK funding.

Energy policy is one of the most challenging research areas

in the modern world. After decades of steady growth,

consumers recognise that they have to use less energy and

much of that will be generated from renewable sources.

Lancaster is at the forefront of research in this field. At the

policy level, Lancaster academics provide research and

consultancy to Government departments and industrial

bodies on subjects as diverse as the effect on greenhouse

gas emissions of rail electrification, energy used in

aggregate extraction, safety management of nuclear

facilities and the siting of new power stations. A new rig

has been built to evaluate a low-head small-scale

hydropower system based on converting a water head to

air pressure which is used to drive an air turbine.

Science and Technology182

Lancaster Environment Centre

Dr Zhang’s research focuses on the dynamics of

exchange between simple solution species,

complexes and the solid phase, and their controls

on bioavailability. Her work is relevant to risk

assessment and the development of new regulations

for both metal deficiencies and contamination.

“Through my research in the Department, I have

developed new environmental analytical techniques

and advanced understanding of biogeochemical

processes affecting trace metals and other inorganic

components in natural waters, sediments and soils.

Recently my masters and PhD students have studied

topics that include developing new methods for

measuring metals, nutrients and radionuclides in

natural waters, studying the geochemistry of

sediments on a microbial scale and modeling their

dynamics in soils and their effect on uptake by plants.”

“In the Department we work together with students

to carefully design projects at the cutting edge of

research. There is a real opportunity for academic

growth and development. Also, due to the progressive

nature of the research that our students are encouraged

to carry out, both our PhD and masters students

often publish their work in leading journals.”

Research Degrees

MPhil/PhD

MSc in Plant Sciences (by Research)

MSc in Ecology (by Research)

MSc in Environmental Science

(by Research)

Taught Courses

MRes in Environment and

Development (Overseas Placement)

MRes in Science of the Environment

MSc in Biophotonics

MSc in Conservation Science

MSc in Contaminated Land and

Remediation

MSc in Ecology and the

Environment

MSc in Energy and the Environment

MSc in Environmental and Biochemical

Toxicology

MSc/PgDip in Environmental Informatics

MSc in Environmental Pollution and

Protection

MSc in Environmental Science and

Technology

MSc in Resource and Environmental

Management

MSc in Sustainable Water Management

MSc in Volcanology and Geological Hazards

MA in Environmental Management

and Consultancy

Number of Postgraduate Students

190

Dr Hao ZhangReader in Environmental Chemistry

Director of Lancaster

Environment Centre

Professor Graham Harris

Associate Director of LEC

(Postgraduate Study)

Professor Kirk T Semple

Postgraduate Enquiries

Andy Harrod

tel: +44 (0)1524 593478 or 593190

e-mail: [email protected]

Website

www.lec.lancs.ac.uk/postgraduate/

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The Lancaster Environment Centre (LEC) forms one of the

largest centres for environmental research in Europe. At

the heart of LEC is a fundamental commitment to ensure

that our research and teaching is driven to deliver academic

excellence and real world impact.

LEC has established clear areas of research to address some

of the most pressing issues of the 21st century. Our inter-

disciplinary research themes focus on atmospheric science,

biodiversity and global change, catchment and aquatic

processes, environmental geosciences and the relationships

between the environment and society. This provides a

strong research-based environment for the provision of

training and education programmes at postgraduate level

creating a vibrant environment for postgraduate students.

Postgraduate students are taught by and work with world-

class scientists in a wide range of environmentally related

disciplines, thereby enhancing your future employment

prospects in the environment sector and beyond. Joining

LEC will expand your understanding of the key areas of the

environment and will provide you with the relevant skills

required for a successful career.

We regard practical study as a key means of learning about

the environment and are fortunate to have a variety of

areas of outstanding natural beauty and scientific interest

on our doorstep. Depending on your area of study you may

have the opportunity for field work in the Lake District, the

Yorkshire Dales, Morecambe Bay or the Forest of Bowland

or further afield, for example on Mount Etna in Sicily or in

West Africa.

Industry linked projects

Enterprise and Business Partnerships within LEC is one of

the University’s major foci for collaborative work with the

commercial sector. The Graduate Consultancy programme

gives students working towards a postgraduate degree

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sociologically derived modes of requirements capture anddesign. The course provides hands-on experience in the useof advanced software modularity mechanisms such asaspect-oriented software development. Students followingthis pathway build on the same fundamentals, plus SystemDependability and Network and System Security modules,and an elective. The dissertation research topic is in acomplementary software engineering area.

MSc in Multimedia NetworkingThe convergence of media and networking hasrevolutionised online business and the way bothbroadcasters and individuals produce and share informationonline. Coping with content delivery and sharing on a largescale across heterogeneous devices and networks raisesnumerous research challenges. Building on over a decade ofnetworking and multimedia research at Lancaster, this MScexplores the networking and operating systems technologiesunderpinning these systems, providing deep understanding ofnext generation content delivery platforms and the revolutionhappening in Internet based broadcasting today. Graduatesfrom this course are well suited to research and industrialcareers in fields such as networking, cloud computing andInternet service provision and next generation broadcasting.

Course StructureAll pathways through the Advanced Computer Scienceprogramme require students to complete six taughtmodules, a project dissertation and a self-study researchmethods module. Projects are supervised one-on-one with amember of academic staff and can be research-led or incooperation with an industrial partner. You will get personalattention and the best possible advice for maximising yourproject results and gaining the experience to realise yourcareer ambitions.

As an indication of course content, the following tableoutlines the modules that make up the programme. Eachmodule is delivered in intensive ‘blocks’ of tuition followedby coursework assignments designed to reinforce yourknowledge. Students tell us that block mode lets themreally focus on one topic at a time and simultaneously makesit easier for (particularly part-time) students to manage theirother commitments. The modular scheme means you havethe freedom to change between different courses as yourinterests and expertise develops.

MSc in Distributed Systems EngineeringLancaster has an international reputation for its Networkingand Distributed Systems research. This course provides achance to study with leading experts in Networking,Distributed Systems, HCI and Software Engineering. Studentstake the same core modules as the Advanced ComputerScience MSc, but align their dissertation research in thedistributed systems engineering topic area (e.g. focusing onnext generation middleware design or tackling challenges inlarge scale Internet systems). There is freedom to choosefrom the full range of elective modules including MobileComputing, Ubiquitous Computing and Advanced Topics inNetworking.

MSc in Mobile and Ubiquitous ComputingMobile computing has already revolutionised the modernworld, as exemplified by the 2 billion mobile phones in usetoday that are enabling innovation on a grand scale. Newresearch discoveries and avenues are now realising the visionof Ubiquitous Computing, where applications can beseamlessly integrated into everyday environments andaccessed in more natural and unobtrusive ways. Lancaster isone of the most research active UK Universities in the areasof Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing. This course ensuresthat you’ll be exposed to leading thinking in this topic areaand well placed to realise the multitude of innovations andopportunities created by mobile computing, tangibleinteraction, embedded and assistive technologies. Studentstake both the Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing modules,the core of Advanced Distributed Systems, Interactive SystemsDesign (HCI) and Software Engineering, plus an electivemodule of their choice. The dissertation research is normallyconducted with a research group or industrial partnerworking in a related area.

MSc in Critical Software EngineeringAs mission-critical systems become more and moredistributed and embedded in society so does the complexityand consequences when they fail. Only by understanding thefull interdisciplinary mix of software and distributed systemsand the social context in which they are deployed, willmission-critical systems work effectively and reliably. Thiscourse builds on Lancaster’s long-standing reputation in thefield of Software Engineering, combining cutting-edgesoftware engineering practices with more human-centred


Core:Advanced Distributed SystemsAdvanced Interactive Systems DesignSystems EngineeringA Research or Industrial Focused DissertationElectives (subject to availability):Advanced Networking and the InternetMobile ComputingNetwork & System SecurityUbiquitous ComputingAdvanced Topics in NetworkingContemporary Operating Systems: Inside MicrosoftWindows and LinuxAspect-Oriented Software DevelopmentSystem DependabilityMultimedia Systems Engineering

MSc in Human Computer Interaction

Director of Studies: Dr Corina Sas.Duration: 12 months full-time.Entry Requirements: At least a second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent. A background in computerscience, design, psychology is preferable but not essential.Relevant industrial experience is also taken intoconsideration.Assessment: Combination of coursework, exam anddissertation.IELTS: 6.5 or TOEFL 580 (paper-based test), 238 (computer-based test), 93 (internet-based test).Funding: See page 213.Further Information: scc.lancs.ac.uk

This unique course offers a multidisciplinary perspective onthe design, development and evaluation of advancedinteractive technologies, such as mobile computing,tangible systems, game technology or social networkingapplications. The course is aimed at those wishing toprepare themselves for a higher degree or a research-ledcareer in areas such as human factors, interaction design,user interface, user experience. Former graduates havetaken up posts in major international companies such asIBM, Xerox, and Hewlett-Packard while others have goneon to study for PhDs and develop their own researchcareers.

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“I had been working as a web designer for about tenyears. Mainly designing for large financial companies, Iwas very experienced, but felt there was somethingmissing. I became interested in methods ofrequirements gathering - especially ethnography - andthe course was flexible enough to let me concentrateon this area during my dissertation.”

“I use the skills I developed in my work every day. Thecourse enabled me to get a job in a large consultancycompany, where I specialised as a User ExperienceConsultant. It also allowed me to shift focus from theend of the design process to the beginning, whereusability tools and techniques make a lot moredifference to the end product. As a result of the thingsI learned on the course my role changed to activeparticipation in shaping the benefits and requirementsof some of the largest IT systems in the UK.”

Jackie MellorMSc Human Computer Interaction Current position: Independent consultantfor the NHS

We also study stochastic resonance (relevant to the ice-agecycle, ring lasers, and sensory neurons) and Brownianratchets (the nanoscale motors responsible for proteintransport in biological cells). We are modeling conduction inbiological ion channels in collaboration with Rush MedicalCenter in Chicago, using ideas from stochastic nonlineardynamics and numerical simulation. Please see our websitefor further information.

Biomedical PhysicsDrs A Stefanovska, A Bahraminasab, D Garcia-Alvarez, P BM Clarkson, M A Entwistle, and Profs P V E McClintock andA Smith.We apply nonlinear physics to study the function of livingsystems. We seek a fundamental understanding of theoscillatory processes involved in energy transfer within thecardiovascular system and information transfer within thebrain.

We study noisy nonlinear oscillators analytically andnumerically, in particular to characterize their interactions.We develop analytical and numerical tools to deal with thetime–varying, non-autonomous processes characteristic ofliving systems, including wavelet-based bispectral methodsand synchronization. The work involves collaboration withthe Royal Lancaster Infirmary and with partners in Europe,USA, Canada and Japan. To date we have tackled problemsrelated to anaesthesia, aging, cardiac failure, diabetes,hypertension and post-myocardiac infarction. Please see ourwebsite for further information.

Optoelectronics and NanostructuresProf A Krier, Drs M Hayne, R Jones, O Kolosov, A GKozorezov, S E Krier, M Pumarol, M Yin, Q D Zhuang and HM Pollock (Emeritus).Research within the group involves experiments onsemiconductor, carbon-nanotube and graphene basedoptoelectronic materials and devices, quantum dot andphase change memories, superconducting tunnel junctionsand the development of advanced techniques for nanoscalecharacterization of materials and devices.

Our research into the physics of semiconductornanostructures and devices includes the MBE (molecularbeam epitaxy) growth of a variety of III-V compounds, with

emphasis on mid-infrared (2-5µm) optoelectronics,spectroscopy of quantum structures and scanning probemicroscopy (SPM). This is stimulated by a wide range ofnovel physical phenomena and practical applications, such asmid-infrared lasers, LEDs and detectors for environmentalmonitoring, fire detection and free-space opticalcommunications, devices for telecommunications, charge-based and phase change memories. This research includesthe growth, characterisation and high-magnetic-fieldspectroscopy of self-assembled quantum dots. These‘artificial atoms’ are spontaneously formed when a fewmono-layers of material are deposited on a substrate with adifferent lattice constant, and are an area of intensescientific activity worldwide.

The work on SPM substantially broadens our range ofinterests. We have developed several new instrumentalparadigms in nanotechnology by combining SPM withlocalised chemical fingerprinting, spectroscopic analysis,thermal measurements and ultrasonic imaging. A spin outcompany, Anasys instruments, has been launched tocommercialise some of this work: our “micro-thermalanalysis” and “ultrasonic force microscopy”, or UFM, arenow used worldwide. Our new technique, photothermalmicrospectroscopy (or PTMS) allows infrared spectroscopy tobe performed on an individual cell, and our recentdevelopment, combining PTMS with carbon nanotubes, isaimed at spectroscopic imaging capable of sub-cellularresolution. The UFM family of SPM’s reveals otherwiseunobservable surface and sub-surface properties ofnanostructures, as well as the dynamics of physicalphenomena.

Work is undertaken in an atmosphere of strong national andinternational cooperation and is supported by EPSRC, theRoyal Society, the Technology Strategy Board, the EuropeanCommission and the European Space Agency. Particularlystrong links exist with the Universities of Hull, Nottingham,Oxford, Sheffield and Surrey, and at the international levelwith TU Berlin, NTU Taiwan, CNR institutes in Pisa andBologna, Hokkaido University, University of Connecticut, theLoffe Institute, Wroclaw University of Technology, KU Leuvenand University of Antwerp. Our industrial collaboratorsinclude IBM, QinetiQ, Bookham, Procal, NT-MDT and AnasysInstruments. Please see our Web site for further information.


THEORETICAL PHYSICSResearch in the theoretical physics arena encompassescondensed matter, elementary particles, cosmology,accelerator science, geometry and classical fields.

Condensed Matter TheoryProfs B Altshuler, V I Falko, C J Lambert, Drs V Cheianov, H Schomerus, and E McCann.Our activities range from developing fundamentalcondensed matter theories and studies of new materials,such as graphene, to modelling experimentally investigateddevices. We perform broad studies of 2D electron systemsand the quantum Hall effect; strongly correlated one-dimensional quantum systems, electronic properties ofgraphene and carbon nanotubes; transport and dynamics inmolecular electronic systems. The development of theory ofquantum dynamical systems (including microlasers andresonators) is the core activity of the Lancaster-based MarieCurie Excellence Team ‘Nanoelectrophotonics’ embedded inbroader research on quantum dots, phase-coherentmesoscopic hybrid systems with superconducting,ferromagnetic and normal components, noise and countingstatistics. Our activities contribute to worldwidecollaborations with two dozen experimental nanosciencecentres and theory groups, including Max-Planck-Institutesin Germany, IoP of Czech Academy of Sciences in Prague,Berkeley National Lab, and Columbia NY, Harvard andCornell Universities in the USA.

Particle Theory, Astrophysics and CosmologyProf D H Lyth, Drs K Dimopoulos, K Kohri, A Mazumdar, JMcDonald and N Sahu.Particle cosmology seeks to understand the Big Bang usingelementary particle theory. Since the discovery of CMBanisotropy (1992), Lancaster has been recognisedworldwide as a leading centre for the development ofinflationary cosmology. We have been the source of manykey ingredients of the now-accepted picture, such as the‘epsilon-eta formalism’, the possibility of thermal inflation,and the curvaton hypothesis.

Lancaster has embarked upon a major new initiative intheoretical particle cosmology, with the intention of makingit the leading centre for its study in the UK. With newobservations expected in the near future from CERN’s LHCand ESA’s Planck CMB satellite, the cosmology group hasthe expertise to use the new information to gainfundamental insights into particle physics theory and theorigin of the Universe. Please see our website for furtherinformation.

Electromagnetism, Geometry and GravityProf R W Tucker, Drs DA Burton, J Gratus, V Perlick, D CChristie, A Noble and S M Wiggins.Our work addresses difficult unanswered questions thatarise when intense charged particle beams interactnonlinearly with their own intense electromagnetic fields.We aim to develop a fundamental understanding of thebehaviour of charged media and their electromagnetic self-fields to be used in future accelerator and intense light-source design. As mathematical physicists, we makeextensive use of coordinate-free geometrical concepts andspacetime notions to uncover the ramifications of ourtheories.

We collaborate with other groups throughout the worldincluding those in major accelerator centres (CERN, SLAC,DESY) and other Universities. We also maintain a stronginteraction with the Cockcroft Institute. Collaboration withthe Cockcroft Institute offers a unique opportunity to gaininvolvement in some of the current major challenges infundamental physics. Please see our website for furtherinformation.


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Faculty of

Science and Technologywww.lancs.ac.uk/sci-tech/

World-class researchand teaching occurs

everywhere in Scienceand Technology at

Lancaster.


Taught CoursesMA/PgDip in Social Work MRes in CriminologyMRes in Child WelfarePgCert in Child Welfare Practice


Head of DepartmentDr Ian Paylor


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Websitewww.lancs.ac.uk/fass/apsocsci

LocationBowland North

from the humanities and the social and managementsciences who are concerned with science of theenvironment and policymaking. LEC is also one of thesites of the government research facility, the Centre forEcology and Hydrology (CEH), also housing a growingnumber of commercial enterprises. In sum, LECcomprises the largest single grouping of environmentalresearchers in Europe.

The new Postgraduate Statistics Centre houses theNational Centre for Excellence in Teaching andLearning (CETL) in Postgraduate Statistics. ThePostgraduate Statistics Centre’s mission is to enhanceand extend Lancaster’s already excellent practice inquantitative postgraduate training both to specialiststatisticians and to users of statistics in otherdisciplines. Statistics research is a particular strength atLancaster and, building on this reputation, staff inMathematics and Statistics were able to win thefunding for the centre from the Higher EducationFunding Council for England (HEFCE).

The architecturally dramatic InfoLab21 is a keydevelopment in the science strategy for NW England.The research and teaching of the academic

departments collocated in InfLab21, Computing andCommunication Systems, are demonstrably world-leading. Now, however, thanks to InfoLab21, they arealso having an impact closer to home by providing afocus for the NW’s knowledge economy. Local ICTbusinesses and spin-out companies, some of whom arelocated within InfoLab21, are able to work with ourresearchers to deliver innovative products whileoffering projects, placements and employmentopportunities to our students.

The science and technology community at LancasterUniversity is international with over 24% of our 731postgraduate students coming from overseas, beingtaught by staff from all over the globe, attracted toLancaster by the quality of our science and technology.Opportunities exist to get involved with a range ofpartnerships at a European and global level and tointeract with the international scholars who come toLancaster.

The Faculty continues to keep innovation at the top ofits agenda and we hope you will join us and contributeto our growing and ever changing community ofscientists and technologists.

Large Hydron Collider (LHC) © CERN

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The Faculty of Science and Technology is buzzing withpeople with big ideas. We have innovative ways ofteaching, new Masters degrees to build your careerwith, a range of ways in which you can study for yourdoctorate and new labs and buildings to do your workin. All this is built on a foundation of our excellentscientists and technologists’ deep roots in corescientific disciplines.

We will equip you to address complex and importantscientific problems and technological challenges. Weteach material at the cutting edge of science andtechnology that is directly informed by our world-classresearch, much of which has a significant impact onthe state-of-the-art and on peoples’ lives. Wecollaborate closely with key public and privateorganisations, many of whom directly fund ourresearch. Examples include the UK funding councils,the EU, the Environment Agency, Microsoft, Intel,Novartis and Waitrose.

Many of the most challenging problems facing theworld span discipline boundaries and science atLancaster is noted for its scientists working togetheracross disciplines. As a consequence, it is common forstudents’ research projects and Masters programmesto cross traditional subject boundaries, to gain newinsights into problems that are simply too complex forany single discipline to tackle. For example, modernsafety engineering covers the science of disasters, thepsychology of risk perception and the management ofprocesses and people. Our statisticians are contributingto a better understanding of the spread of diseasethrough their work on spatial epidemiology, and ourphysicists are helping to understand the nonlineardynamics of the cardiovascular system. Some problemsbreach the traditional limits of science altogether. Thedepartments of Geography and Psychology span thenatural and life sciences, as well as the social sciences,but even in Computer Science the social sciencesprovide insights into the design of complex, sometimessafety-critical, ubiquitous computing systems.

World-class research and teaching occurs everywherein Science and Technology at Lancaster. However,three new facilities illustrate how our reputation isattracting substantial inward investment to thebenefit of our researchers, local, national and pan-national industry and our students:

The Lancaster Environment Centre brings togethera community of university environmental researchersin the study of terrestrial, aquatic and atmosphericsystems on scales that range from the molecular to theglobal. The LEC community also includes academics

Faculty of Science and TechnologyDean of FacultyProfessor Mary Smyth

Associate Dean for Postgraduate StudiesProfessor Awais Rashid

Associate Dean for ResearchProfessor Colin Lambert

Number of Postgraduate Students352 research 379 taught

DepartmentsComputing and CommunicationsEngineeringLancaster Environment Centre (LEC)Mathematics and Statistics PhysicsPsychology

All our departments are world-class for research and teaching.

In the last five years the Faculty has generated over£74 million in external income, which is testamentto the quality of and need for the research we do.All the UK research councils have supported ourwork as have the Royal Society and British Academy.Major companies that have invested in projects hereincluded BT and Pfizer. We have received grantsfrom international organisations such as theEuropean Commission, NATO and European SpaceAgency; from UK Government departments such asthe DTI and DEFRA; from national agencies (e.g.Environment Agency, Health and Safety Executive);and increasingly from major medical funders andcharities (NHS Executive, Wellcome Trust and NWCancer Research Fund). Key charitable funders suchas the Leverhulme Trust and Nuffield Foundationhave often helped our research.

We offer many innovative and popular postgraduatecourses with high quality teaching by leadingresearchers which will be the launch pad for yourprofessional career in the UK or overseas.

Mathematics and Statistics

Professor Paul Fearnhead’s main interests lie inBayesian and Computational Statistics and theirapplication, primarily within genetics. He wasawarded two major national prizes in 2007.

“The distinctive feature of statistics research atLancaster is that methodological innovations aremotivated by, and fed back into, substantiveapplications in the natural, biomedical and socialsciences. We have particular strengths incomputational statistical methods; longitudinal dataanalysis; spatial statistics; and extreme value theory.Much of our work is inter-disciplinary, and we havestrong links with other research groups both withinand outside the university. Large application areasinclude systems biology; human and veterinaryepidemiology; and criminology.”

“We are one of the largest and strongest statisticsgroups in the UK. We have an outstandingreputation for postgraduate training in statistics,and are the UK’s only Centre for Excellence inTeaching and Learning in Postgraduate Statistics.”

Research DegreesMPhil/PhDDoctoral Programme in Statisticsand Operational Research withIndustrial Applications

Taught CoursesMSc/PgDip in StatisticsMSc/PgDip/PgCert in Applied SocialStatistics


Head of DepartmentProfessor John Whitehead


Professor Paul FearnheadDepartment of Mathematics and Statistics

Science and Technology

Websitewww.maths.lancs.ac.uk

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The Mathematics and Statistics Department is aninternationally recognised research and teaching facility. TheDepartment’s performance is reflected in recent league tables,with Lancaster, Oxford and Cambridge the top three in anaggregate table combining 2008 scores from The Guardian,The Independent and The Times.

In 2008 the Postgraduate Statistics Centre at LancasterUniversity was officially opened by the former president ofthe Royal Statistical Society, Professor Sir David Cox. Ouraward-winning building comprises dedicated teaching,learning, computing and research facilities for ourpostgraduate students. The Department is also a foundermember of the national PhD training centres in Statistics,Mathematics and Operational Research.

We have many established research links with business,industry and government which have been fostered anddeveloped by our four sections: Pure Mathematics, Statistics,Medical Statistics and Social Statistics. Several companies visitus each year to promote the recruitment of our graduatesand we have an excellent reputation for graduateemployment success.

In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise Lancastersubmitted the fifth-largest research group to the panel forstatistics and operations research. Sixty percent of ourresearch output was judged to be “world leading” or“internationally excellent”. In the pure mathematicsassessment, 50% of our research activity was judged to be“world leading” or “internationally excellent”. The puremathematics research covers analysis and algebra withapplications to mathematical physics and to computer aideddesign.

In 2010, the Department was awarded substantial funding todevelop a unique Doctoral Training Centre combining Statistics,Operational Research and Industrial Applications. We areproducing a new generation of researcher who is capable ofcreating an impact in these complementary areas. The centrewill fully fund at least 40 students between October 2010and 2013.

The research community within our Department has a stronglyinternational flavour, including staff and research studentsfrom Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America andAustralasia.


Employability

The course provides avaluable preparation forprofessional statistical practiceor research. The majority ofgraduates gain employmenteither as a practisingstatistician, for example in apharmaceutical company, oras university researchassistants, or proceed to astatistics PhD. See:www.maths.lancs.ac.uk/PSC

MSc/PgDip in Applied Social Statistics

Director of Studies: Dr Juliet Harman.Duration: 12 months full-time or 24 months part-time(MSc); 9 months full-time or 21 months part-time (PgDip).Entry Requirements: At least an upper second classhonours degree, or its equivalent, in mathematics, a socialscience or other related discipline, or a relevant professional qualification and experience.Assessment: Combination of coursework andreport/dissertation.IELTS: 6.5Funding: see page 213.Further Information: www.maths.lancs.ac.uk

These programmes are designed to provide you with a firmgrounding in enhanced quantitative skills by providing apractical foundation to the theory and application ofstatistical methods in the social and health sciences.

Studying substantive theory, research methods, datacollection (including how to use data from largeGovernment social surveys) and statistical analysis, you areencouraged to explore ways in which this knowledge canbe applied to areas such as criminology, economics, healthresearch, management, psychology and sociology. Thepolicy implications of quantitative social science researchwill be considered throughout the course.

The programme offers pathways in: • Crime and Forensic Statistics • Health Research• Teaching Statistics up to pre-university level (via distance

learning).

The Teaching Statistics pathway may be studied part-timeas a standalone PgCert and is suitable for teachers insecondary education wishing to enhance their statisticalskills. The courses are particularly suited to those wishingto study part-time as part of a programme of ContinuingProfessional Development.

Taught modules are delivered in block mode where allmaterial is covered in intensively in up to four days oflectures, tutorials and seminars. The Teaching Statisticspathway up to pre-university level is a distance learningmodule with four contact away days.

TAUGHT COURSES

MSc/PgDip in Statistics

Director of Studies: Dr Deborah Costain.Duration: 12 months full-time (MSc), 24 months part-time(MSc); 9 months full-time (PgDip).Entry Requirements: At least a second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in a subject with a strongmathematics or statistics component. Introductory modulesare available for students wishing to convert from anotherdiscipline. Assessment: Combination of coursework, examination and dissertation.IELTS: 6.5Funding: MRC, NIHR- see also page 213.Further Information: www.maths.lancs.ac.ukPathways: Medical Statistics, Pharmaceutical Statistics orEnvironmental Statistics.

This MSc has a strong theoretical and methodologicalcomponent to supplement a focus on applications ofstatistics to real-life scientific problems.You can opt tofollow pathways in Medical Statistics, PharmaceuticalStatistics or Environmental Statistics which respectivelyfocus upon problems taken from medical and healthresearch, pharmaceutical development or environmentalsciences.

You will follow a set of compulsory modules covering coretheory and methods, applied statistical modelling and apractical skills module comprising topics such as statisticalcomputing, scientific writing, presentation and consultancy.You will also study a self-designated programme of optionalmodules tailored according to your research interests andcareer aspirations. The aim is to develop your analytical andstatistical modelling skills and to apply them to address arange of ‘real life’ problems.

Your studies will be completed by undertaking a supervisedin-depth dissertation aimed at solving a substantive researchquestion.

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