Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases is one of the most pressing fields in biomedical science, concerned with the biology, epidemiology, and clinical management of pathogens that cause illness in humans and animals. Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites have shaped human history profoundly, from the plague pandemics of the medieval period to the influenza pandemic of 1918 and the more recent emergence of novel pathogens. Understanding how infections occur, how the immune system responds, how antimicrobial resistance develops, and how outbreaks are controlled is fundamental to global health.

At the University of Edinburgh, this four-year programme includes a year abroad, giving you experience in a different research or academic context and the opportunity to encounter infectious disease challenges in a different geographical setting. Edinburgh has exceptional research strength in infectious diseases and global health, with major research institutes and clinical partnerships that place the university at the forefront of this field. You will study microbiology, virology, immunology, epidemiology, and the clinical and public health dimensions of infectious disease management, and you will develop strong laboratory and analytical skills alongside your theoretical understanding.

Graduates are well placed for careers in clinical microbiology, public health, epidemiology, pharmaceutical and vaccine research, global health organisations, biosecurity, and academic research. The global health dimension of the degree is particularly relevant to roles in organisations such as the WHO, the UK Health Security Agency, Médecins Sans Frontières, and international research institutions. Further study at master's or PhD level in infectious diseases, global health, epidemiology, or clinical microbiology is a common route for those who wish to pursue research or specialist clinical or public health roles.