How does the brain generate perception, behaviour and cognition? Recent decades have seen major advances at the molecular and cellular levels, and non‑invasive in vivo methods now allow us to monitor brain activity even in humans. Yet many fundamental questions remain — for instance, how parallel processing within a single sensory modality (such as vision or hearing) is combined to produce complex percepts like a face or a voice. The programme confronts these open problems by training students to think about the brain as a complex, multi‑scale system.
Teaching and research are delivered by a mixed faculty that includes members of the Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (GSN) alongside invited lecturers from other institutions. Faculty expertise spans many approaches and methods in neuroscience, reflecting the conviction that the brain’s complexity can only be understood through an interdisciplinary mix of molecular, cellular and systems perspectives. The programme targets early‑career researchers and is designed to build a strong foundation at the graduate level.
The curriculum emphasizes an integrated understanding of neurobiology across scales. Students gain in‑depth knowledge of molecular and cellular mechanisms, neuron–neuron and neuron–glia interactions, principles of information transfer within simple and complex circuits, cross‑centre brain interactions, and the functioning of the human brain. Training combines theory and hands‑on exposure to modern techniques, preparing graduates to pursue research across experimental and computational domains.
Requirements / recommended profile
Program structure
The curriculum is built around four core neuroscience domains: systems neurobiology, molecular and cellular neurobiology, computational neuroscience and neurophilosophy. Most of the structured coursework is concentrated in the first two semesters, giving you a solid grounding in brain anatomy and neuron-to-neuron communication before expanding into cognition, higher brain functions, computational approaches and philosophical perspectives on neuroscience. From the outset, students also undertake practical, lab-based research: every semester includes an individual research project so you gain hands-on experience while becoming familiar with the participating laboratories and researchers.
Complementary training and mentoring
Beyond subject-specific modules, the programme integrates practical and professional development. In your second year you receive supervised teaching experience (with credit) and participate in modular workshops covering transferable academic skills such as science communication, presentation, scientific writing and time management. Each student is assigned a faculty mentor who provides academic advice, helps plan your study and research trajectory, and facilitates contacts with collaborating institutions through regular informal meetings.
Academic tracks and flexibility
Since 2018 the curriculum offers two academic tracks to let you tailor your profile: a Systemic–Cellular–Molecular Neuroscience track and a Computational Neuroscience track. Whichever track you choose, you will still take coursework in the complementary area at a reduced intensity, ensuring a broad, interdisciplinary foundation while allowing specialization.
Key requirements (what you will complete)
Learning outcomes (what you will be able to do)
You must hold a completed Bachelor's degree (or an internationally recognised equivalent) to be eligible for this MSc programme. The programme is interdisciplinary, so applicants with undergraduate training across a range of scientific and technical disciplines are encouraged to apply.
Because neuroscience intersects biology, cognition, computation and engineering, suitable backgrounds include natural sciences, engineering and related humanities that provide a foundation for advanced study in brain science. International qualifications that are considered equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree are accepted.
Admission requirement — key points:
Winter Semester (International)
15 February 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 February 2027
Graduates are prepared for continued research careers (including entry into structured PhD programmes or combined Master’s–PhD pathways) thanks to substantial hands‑on laboratory and computational experience. The interdisciplinary training also equips students for roles in industry (e.g. biotech, neurotechnology), clinical research, science communication, and other professional settings where neuroscience expertise is valued.
The programme’s mentoring, international collaborations and emphasis on transferable skills (teaching, presentation, scientific writing) help students make transitions into doctoral study, research positions, or non‑academic careers that require advanced analytical and communication abilities.