Edge Hill is now partnering with world-leading Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) - the only collaboration of its kind in the UK - in the global fight against deadly infectious diseases.
Together the institutions are launching an exclusive new undergraduate degree on the study of global infectious diseases, a timely move in light of the continued spread of potentially deadly diseases like malaria, tuberculosis and HIV.
The pioneering BSc (Hons) Global Infectious Disease is designed to equip the next generation of scientists with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle some of the world’s most pressing health challenges.
Anne Oxbrough, Head of Biology at Edge Hill University, said: “Disease-carrying vectors like mosquitoes are expanding beyond their traditional ranges due to global climate change, and increased international travel and trade.
“Infectious diseases are a serious health problem across many parts of the globe and are now becoming a threat to human health in regions where they previously would never have been found.
“This degree will create a pathway for students to learn about these diseases, how they spread and impact the human body, and how they can be better managed and treated.”
This innovative degree combines Edge Hill’s outstanding student experience with the world-renowned expertise of LSTM in infectious disease research, offering students a truly unique and immersive learning experience.
From day one, students will benefit from the resources, cutting-edge facilities and academic talent of both institutions – experiencing the best each has to offer.
The curriculum dives deep into the biology of disease-causing pathogens through modules including immunology and infectious diseases and students will have the chance to contribute to real-world research alongside LSTM’s expert teams, equipping them for meaningful careers in global health.
Professor Isabel Lucas, Pro Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Education at LSTM, added: “We are delighted to join forces with Edge Hill University on this pioneering initiative.
“By combining LSTM’s world-class expertise in infectious disease research with Edge Hill’s commitment to academic excellence, we will provide our students with unparalleled opportunities to develop the skills and experiences they need to tackle global health challenges.
“This partnership not only enriches our curriculum but also strengthens our collective impact on communities worldwide.”
The new partnership strengthens Edge Hill’s growing reputation in biosciences, complementing a recent investment in a new £17.4m Life Sciences building and academic expertise.
Several Edge Hill experts are already leading in this field including Clare Strode, reader in medical entomology, whose research focuses on mosquito-borne diseases, and biochemist Dr Rachel Clare, whose current research focuses on the development of therapeutics to neutralise snake venom.
Pro Vice-Chancellor Liam Owens added: “We are very proud to be partnering with LSTM – the oldest institution of its kind in the world and a global leader in disease and infection research – on this landmark and transformative collaboration.
“This is a significant milestone for our university, UK higher education and global health research, and we are excited for our future students who will benefit from LSTM’s specialist facilities, academic expertise and international outlook which will open doors for them and attract interest in Edge Hill from the international research community.”
Find out more about the global infectious disease degree and how to apply, as well as many other life-changing opportunities at Edge Hill University and Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine.