Extend your knowledge of the mechanics of life
Learn about methods of clinical analysis, the biochemical basis of therapeutics, and biochemical pharmacology.
Explore the research and modern concepts in heredity, genomics, gene regulation and molecular microbiology. Examine cellular structure, function, and behaviour—and look at advances in physiological and pharmacological sciences.
Postgraduate study supports you to focus on an area of interest—with options to complete self-directed study or a thesis. Through your own experiments you'll develop advanced skills in research design, implementation, analysis, and communicating your findings.
Work with the Centre for Biodiscovery
Working at the interface of chemistry and biology, our Centre for Biodiscovery researches nature-inspired products and processes, with the aim of improving human health and wellbeing.’
Using multidisciplinary research, the Centre focuses on understanding the biological basis of disease. This includes finding new chemical entities for cures and improving the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, and neurological and infectious diseases.
You'll work with highly respected scientists who are leaders in their field, from the Ferrier and Malaghan Institutes, the School of Biological Sciences and the School of Chemical and Physical Sciences.
Choose your study path
There are several ways that you can study Postgraduate Cell and Molecular Bioscience with us.
Postgraduate study pathways
Postgraduate study gives you the flexibility to focus on either coursework or research, depending on your goals and interests.
When you study by coursework, you'll learn in a structured way through lectures, tutorials, assignments, and exams. When you do a research degree, you'll do independent research while working closely with an academic supervisor.
Focus on coursework
- Graduate Certificate in Science
- Graduate Diploma in Science
- Postgraduate Certificate in Science
- Postgraduate Diploma in Science
Coursework and research
- Bachelor of Science with Honours
- Master of Science (coursework)
Focus on research
- Master of Science (thesis)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Qualification support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser through our enquiry form.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
For the research portion of your study, you’ll need a supervisor to help guide your research. Your programme coordinator will work with you to find the right person.
Study options
Find out how you can study Postgraduate Cell and Molecular BioScience at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Why Wellington
Study in Wellington—the heart of Aotearoa New Zealand's science industry and community.
Explore bioscience at a school ranked top in New Zealand for its research quality, where you'll carry out international research and discovery. You'll also benefit from our relationships with research centres and institutes that could be potential employers in future—these include:
Find out more about the School of Biological Sciences and its research connections.
Future careers
Postgraduate Cell and Molecular Bioscience study gives you the skills and knowledge to work in careers in:
- biosecurity
- biotechnological innovation
- environmental consultancy and monitoring.
You might also work in:
- immunology
- laboratory management
- research science
- teaching.
More career information
Find out more about careers in bioscience.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas.
W3e encourage you to apply—many scholarsips don't receive enought applications.
Summer scholarships
There are several summer scholarships available. These give you the opportunity to gain experience in research—with the added bonus of paid work over the summer trimester.
Each scholarship gives you experience working with established researchers on a specified project and an insight into what studying for a research degree entails.
Scholarships for science
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Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
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Applicants must be enrolled or intending to enrol in a Master's of PhD programme in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, undertaking research in any aspect of biodiversity and restoration ecology, including the use of novel technologies. Preference will be given to applicants from the School of Biological Sciences and the School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences.
Scholarships for international students
We are currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
Other scholarships
We also have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas.
Summer scholarships
There are several summer scholarships available. These give you the opportunity to gain experience in research—with the added bonus of paid work over the summer trimester.
Each scholarship gives you experience working with established researchers on a specified project and an insight into what studying for a research degree entails.
Scholarships for science
-
Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
-
Applicants must be enrolled or intending to enrol in a Master's of PhD programme in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, undertaking research in any aspect of biodiversity and restoration ecology, including the use of novel technologies. Preference will be given to applicants from the School of Biological Sciences and the School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences.
Join our postgraduate community
The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Postgraduate Students’ Association
MAI ki Pōneke
MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.
Research areas
Be part of the exciting research in Cell and Molecular Biology, ranging from biodiscovery to immunology. You'll work in state-of-the-art facilities using the latest technology.
Choose a research topic that suits your interests and career goals.
Academic staff research areas
David Ackerley
Professor of Biotechnology
Zaramasina Clark
Senior Lecturer
Simon Davy
Associate Dean, Research
Bronwyn Kivell
Associate Professor
Anne La Flamme
Professor of Immunology
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Apply for a New Zealand study visa
You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.
You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.