MSc in Life Science and Technology - Life Science Research and Development

Leiden University

In the master's specialisation Life Science Research and Development you will learn to find solutions for complex societal problems as encountered in personalized medicine, chemical biology and sustainable use of biological sources.

What does this master’s programme entail?

In recent decades, life science research has enabled enormous breakthroughs in our understanding of fundamental molecular and cellular processes and mechanisms of life. Knowledge about genomic organisation, studies of protein-protein interactions and the characterisation of molecular structures have become central in modern life science research. Knowledge of chemical biology forms the basis of the molecular understanding of health and disease. It finds important applications in innovative health care, in the pharmaceutical industry and in so-called ‘red’ biotechnology, and is the focus of the Leiden programme.

Why study Life Science Research and Development at Leiden University?

• You will learn to understand the molecular and structural chemical and biological aspects of disease-related processes as well as developing chemical tools for treatment of diseases.
• You have the option of conducting research training projects in research groups in the LIC, other research groups within the Faculty of Science, Leiden University Medical Center, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Erasmus Medical Center, a company or abroad.
• During your programme, you will be part of a multidisciplinary research team of internationally renowned researchers where you will conduct your Master research project.

Life Science Research and Development: the right master’s programme for you?

If you want to understand the outcomes of molecular and structural chemistry in-depth and gain insight in basic processes underlying various diseases our master’s programme is the right choice. More in general, this research specialisation is the best choice for you if you aim for a career in life science research or if you have the aspiration to pursue a PhD degree.

Career prospects

The master’s degree is an excellent stepping-stone for pursuing a PhD degree. You can also aim for a career in either industrial or academic environments.

Acquired skills and competence

This programme equips you with knowledge and expertise on molecular and biomedical fundamental levels, preparing you for careers in both industrial and academic environments. After completing your Master programme you will have excellent knowledge of fundamental and applied Life Sciences and highly developed research skills.

Career

The master’s degree Life Science and Technology is a stepping-stone for those graduates with the aspiration to pursue a PhD degree. Students with a desire to apply their life sciences and technology knowledge outside the university have good job possibilities in R&D departments in industry, business, public utility companies, teaching, consultancy and government bodies. Biotechnological-, food- and biopharmaceutical industries as well as healthcare and fundamental research institutions could be suitable employers. Many students eventually attain higher management positions.