The MRC Cancer Unit is based on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus and provides an outstanding environment for cancer research. The scientific mission of the Unit is to advance fundamental understanding of early steps in carcinogenesis and to translate this information to new approaches for early diagnosis, risk stratification or therapy that can be applied in the clinic. We are investigating the genes and proteins involved in a range of cancers including breast, renal, lung, pancreatic and oesophageal cancer, in order to develop new diagnostic tools and treatments for patients. The MPhil course is a one year laboratory-based course, which will give students a solid foundation in cancer research. Students will underake a defined original project, acquiring both scientific and other skills. At the end of their course, MPhil students are required to submit a written thesis of 20,000 words or less. The student will then undergo an oral examination based on both their thesis and a broader knowledge of their chosen area of research. The project will be determined during the application process through discussion with the supervisor. The student should expect to receive support and advice from senior scientific colleagues and have regular meetings with their supervisor, during the course of their studies. Examination for the MPhil degree involves submission of a written dissertation of not more than 20,000 words. This is followed by an oral examination based on both the dissertation and a broader knowledge of the chosen area of research.