LSI Doctoral Training Centres - Molecular organisation and assembly in cells (MOAC) doctoral training centre
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Warwick
Department Name: Chemistry
Abstract
The central aim of the MOAC scientific remit is to harness relevant physical and engineering science capabilities in order to solve key problems within the life sciences. Building upon the core activities of the past 3 years (MOAC 1), which have resulted in an internationally recognised portfolio of expertise at Warwick, our focus for the future will be toward elucidating the structure and function of biomolecular assemblies. Strong emphasis will also be placed on the inherent challenges presented by instrument design and development with its associated data analysis and modelling.The new phase of MOAC (MOAC2), will benefit from and contribute to the flourishing and changing landscape of post graduate (PG) training at the University of Warwick (U W). MOACI catalysed the transformation of PG training at UW and MOAC2 will be the focal point for developing and disseminating a model that works for a wide range of multidisciplinary activities. Innovations for the future include the following.The transferable skills programme will be substantially enhanced and gain formal recognition as a compulsory 16CATS MSc module and a 60 CATS PG certificate.Networking and collaboration links with Warwick and non-Warwick DTCs will be reinforced through student ledscientific conferences and the new transferable skills programme.Industrial awareness and involvement for all students will be enhanced by each MOAC student having an industrial mentor; increasing emphasis on career options in multidisciplinary science; having more industrial placements; offering MOAC training modules to external scientists from industry.European dimension will be increased by formal accreditation of student MSc and PhD placements for taught modulesand research projects at: Chalmers University, Goteborg, Sweden; Trinity College, Dublin; and elsewhere.The international context of MOAC will be supported by an annual student-nominated highlight overseas lecturer.Engagement with the general public of MOAC and its wider community will be increased by the annual appointment ofa Media and Communications Fellow.The unique base of having 3 DTCs and an almost universal admiration of MOAC's PG training will be used to develop a complete PG training model that can be transferred to any discipline context.