MSc Global Plant Health

University of East Anglia UEA

Plant diseases have shaped the course of human history-and tackling them is key to building a sustainable, food-secure world. Our prestigious MSc in Global Plant Health provides a robust foundation for a career focused on minimising crop losses, enhancing global food security, and protecting both communities and the environment.

This exciting MSc is delivered by The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL), a world-renowned independent research institute at the forefront of plant health. TSL is celebrated for its award-winning breakthroughs in molecular plant–microbe interactions, plant immunity, and disease pathogenesis. You’ll be immersed in a dynamic research environment and learn directly from the scientists driving today’s discoveries-so you can help lead the breakthroughs of tomorrow.

You’ll learn how plants recognise pathogens and activate their defences-and how pathogens, in turn, evolve to evade them. You’ll gain hands-on experience in both laboratory-based and computational research at TSL. In addition, you’ll develop essential leadership skills to help you make a lasting impact throughout your career. TSL is generously supported by the Gatsby Charitable Foundation and other donors, enabling cutting-edge research by approximately 100 scientists, including around 20 postgraduate students.

You’ll be taught by leading scientists from TSL, alongside expert instructors from across the Norwich Research Park-including the John Innes Centre, UEA, and international guest speakers. Studying on one of the world’s top campuses for plant and microbial science, you’ll be immersed in a thriving research environment and gain access to a powerful professional network.

To help guide your career, you’ll hear directly from TSL alumni who have taken diverse paths-including careers in biotech, policy, and more. This MSc will equip you with the skills and experience to pursue exciting opportunities in PhDs, start-ups, field-trial consultancies, and a wide range of other destinations.