In this interview, we sit down with Dr Soo-Hyun Kim, Programme Director of the MRes in Biomedical Science programmes.
Academic interests and expertise
Can you tell us about your academic and research background?
I am a researcher in human development and reproductive biology, with a particular focus on the fundamental molecular mechanisms driving these processes. My work addresses critical public health challenges, including disorders of sexual development, infertility, neurodegenerative conditions and ageing. My lab employs cutting-edge techniques, including organ culture, animal models, advanced confocal microscopy, alongside expertise in genetic analysis of patients, contributing to the broader understanding of rare congenital diseases and healthy ageing.
I am passionate about education. I lead the development and delivery of BSc, MSc, and MRes programmes, inspiring and mentoring the next generation of scientists. I obtained the Postgraduate Certificate in Healthcare and Biomedical Education (PGCert HBE) and currently hold a Fellowship of Higher Education Academy. I am the program director for MRes Biomedical Science. I give specialist lectures, tutorials and expert sessions and have been the module organiser for various courses in undergraduate Biomedical Sciences and intercalated BSc programs. I supervise research projects for BSc, MRes, and MSc and have produced 5 PhD students so far.
How do you see your field evolving over the next decade?
Biomedical science will become more personalized, data-driven, and technology-integrated, supported by advances in genomics and multi-omics to develop tailored treatments, while AI and machine learning will accelerate these processes. Cutting-edge therapies such as in vivo gene editing will expand beyond rare diseases and oncology into broader application and will revolutionize drug delivery. These innovations will be supported by digital infrastructure such as cloud-based collaboration and data networks. I believe the future of biomedical science will rely on the convergence of biology, computation, and engineering to deliver faster, safer, and more effective healthcare solutions.
What do you enjoy most about teaching and mentoring students?
The most rewarding part of teaching and mentoring for me is seeing students grow - watching them gain confidence, develop critical thinking, and achieve milestones they once thought were out of reach. It’s also deeply satisfying to spark curiosity and help discover their passion, knowing that I’ve played a role in shaping their future. I also find the exchange of ideas and learning from students’ fresh perspectives very inspiring.
Why this course?
What makes this postgraduate programme unique within its field?
The MRes in Biomedical Science at City St George’s stands out through its strong research-led structure and close integration with a major teaching hospital. Unlike taught MSc programs, MRes in Biomedical Science places an emphasis on an independent, substantial, nine‑month research project - accounting for nearly 60% of the curriculum - during which students conduct hands-on work in state‑of-the-art labs and clinical settings, often with hospital-based samples and staff. It offers specialist pathways in areas like antimicrobial resistance, development, reproduction, cancer, and infection, giving students deep understanding and expertise in high-impact fields. Our graduates are well positioned for PhDs or careers in biomedical research and industry.
Are there opportunities for students to tailor the programme based on their specific academic or career interests?
The MRes Biomedical Science at City St George’s is designed to be flexible so students can tailor it to their academic interest and career goals. You choose one of five specialist pathways - such as Antimicrobial Resistance, Clinical Biomedical Research, Infection and Immunity, Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer, or Reproduction and Development - each with a dedicated module. A major part of the programme is an independent research project, which you select in consultation with a supervisor to match your interests. You can choose up to 3 research projects available from a list of wide range of projects, and will be given ample time to meet with the potential supervisors and visit their labs before making final decision. You can also choose one of the two optional modules that can complement the core modules. These modules provide essential research skills, while specialist sessions and one-to-one mentoring further support individual focus. This structure allows students to develop expertise in their chosen field while gaining broad research training.
Career paths
How does the programme help students develop skills for their future careers, whether in academia or industry?
The MRes Biomedical Science at City St George’s equips students with practical research experience and transferable skills for both academic and industry careers. Most of the programme is devoted to an independent research project, building expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and project management. Core and optional modules strengthen critical thinking and statistical skills, while specialist pathways provide focused knowledge in biomedical subject areas or clinical research. Students also develop communication and presentation abilities through journal clubs, oral presentations, and written assignments, supported by formative feedback and one-to-one mentoring. This combination of technical, analytical, and professional skills prepares graduates for roles in research, healthcare, and the biomedical sector.
Tips for offer holders
If you could highlight one thing that students should look forward to in this programme, what would it be?
The chance to work closely with respected, active researchers and their teams. You’ll engage in a substantial research project that allows you to contribute meaningfully to ongoing studies. Students consistently praise the diversity and relevance of these projects, noting how interesting and impactful their work feels throughout the experience.
What advice would you give offer holders as they prepare to join this course?
Start by familiarising yourself with the programme structure and the specialist pathways so you can choose the one that best aligns with your interests. Strengthen your research and academic writing skills early, as these will be central to your success. Be proactive in exploring potential research projects and supervisors - this is a key opportunity to shape your experience. Finally, come prepared to engage fully in journal clubs and group discussions; these activities will help you develop critical thinking and communication skills that are invaluable for your future career.