MSc in Biology - Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology

Leiden University

The master’s specialisation Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology integrates genetics, molecular biology, and biotechnology into an attractive programme, with excellent career perspectives.

What does this master’s programme entail?

Through courses and research projects, students are trained by experts in the areas of molecular biology, microbiology, plant genetics, cellular imaging, animal disease models, and various –omics technologies and the corresponding bioinformatics. Attention is paid to the application of these techniques to biotechnology, i.e. how studies on model organisms can be translated to improve crops or human health.

Why study Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology at Leiden University?

• In the master's specialisation Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology you are well trained to start a research career in biological and medical sciences or to lead projects in an industrial or institutional research setting.
• You are taken up as a member of our institute thus providing you with an ideal environment where you can learn science by doing with both junior and senior scientists.

Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology: the right master’s programme for you?

The master’s specialisation Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology is a good match if you interested in subjects as genetics, molecular- and microbiology, cellular imaging, and biotechnology. More in general, this master specialisation is ideally suited as a basis for starting a research career at a university or research institute and for a position in a bioscience-based company.

Career prospects

Completing your Master’s in Biology gives you an internationally recognised degree which you can follow up with a PhD track. With your acquainted skills, you’re a much requested professional in and outside research.

Students graduating in this master specialisation are well trained to start a research career in biological and medical sciences or lead projects in industrial or institutional research environments. With your knowledge and skills you are also in demand for positions outside the scientific field such as, the government, museum or biotech firms.

Career

The research specialisations prepare you for a PhD programme and/or research positions at universities or research institutes, or for positions at governmental organisations and industry, such as consultancy agencies and bioscience-based companies. Some students start their own company.

Approximately half of our graduates choose a career in scientific research, many as a PhD student. Universities, research institutes, and medical centres are the major employers. Other alumni work at consultancy agencies or in the public domain as policy-makers, science communicators or teachers. Graduates also occupy management positions or have project responsibilities in a wide variety of commercial and non-commercial sectors, from bioscience-based companies to environmental management agencies. Some students even start their own company.