This two-year, research-focused Master's programme is delivered in English at a leading German centre for biomedical science. It combines advanced lectures with practical lab courses, giving students hands-on experience alongside theoretical training. The curriculum is designed for those who want to pursue research careers in molecular life sciences or molecular oncology, with opportunities to engage in current biomedical projects.
Students select one of two tracks:
Courses and practicals are taught by biochemists, molecular biologists and clinicians, reflecting a broad range of research expertise and close ties between basic science and clinical applications. Outstanding students may be offered a fast-track option to begin a PhD after completing three semesters of the MSc programme.
Requirements and key facts (concise)
The curriculum is designed to combine advanced coursework with hands-on research training. In the first two semesters, you pick from a wide range of modules taught by active researchers from the Biocenter, the Rudolf Virchow Center and the Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken. Teaching formats include lectures, seminars, practical exercises and laboratory courses. Representative modules are Genomics, RNA Biology, Protein Biology, Structural Biology, Molecular Oncology and Clinical Oncology, giving you a strong grounding in molecular and cellular biology as well as cancer-related topics.
In the third semester the emphasis shifts to practical research: you complete internships in laboratories of your choice, either within the university or at external research sites. These placements are intended to deepen your methodological skills, give sustained experience with contemporary laboratory techniques, and let you explore specific research questions or techniques in more detail.
The fourth semester is reserved for a six-month Master’s thesis based on an individual research project. Across the program you will develop the ability to design and carry out experiments, analyze and interpret data, present results in written and oral formats, and work independently on a substantive research question — skills that prepare you for doctoral studies or careers in academic, clinical or industrial life-science settings.
Requirements (curriculum components)
Applicants must have a documented background in biochemistry and biology. During their Bachelor's degree they must have earned the specified ECTS credit totals in either Area A or Area B (details below). If your credits come from a non‑ECTS system, they will be converted for evaluation.
A final Bachelor’s grade equivalent to 2.5 or better on the German grading scale is required (non‑German grades will be converted). Candidates who meet the subject‑area credit requirements but have not yet completed their BSc can be admitted provisionally if they already hold at least 145 ECTS in total at the time of application; such candidates must later submit their BSc diploma showing a final grade of 2.5 or better to remain enrolled. Shortlisted applicants will be assessed in a 30‑minute oral interview; successful applicants will be informed within four weeks.
Winter Semester (International)
1 June 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
1 June 2026
Graduates are well prepared for immediate entry into research roles in academia (as a pathway to a PhD), biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, clinical research units, and diagnostic laboratories. The programme’s laboratory training and project work cultivate competencies valued by employers: advanced molecular techniques, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.
The fast-track PhD route available to top students accelerates transition to doctoral research. Alumni also pursue careers in regulatory affairs, technical consulting, science writing, and education, where strong analytical and practical laboratory skills are required.