Master's Biology – Specialisation Microbial & Plant Biotechnology (MPBiotec)

Overview

This specialisation gives you an in-depth grounding in the molecular biology of plants and microbes, paired with substantial hands-on training in contemporary genetic engineering techniques. Practical work focuses on manipulating and analysing plants, algae and cyanobacteria, so you gain real laboratory experience alongside theoretical instruction.

Academic focus

Coursework and lab modules extend students’ skills into systems and synthetic biology, redox and metabolic regulation, and molecular-level stress responses. The programme is designed to strengthen both experimental technique and conceptual understanding so you can tackle complex biological problems at multiple scales.

Career and progression

Graduates leave with a versatile “engineering” toolkit and the theoretical background needed for research and development roles in academic or industrial biotech settings. The programme also actively supports early career steps—either by laying a solid foundation for PhD research or by facilitating strong links to industry through company visits, internships and guest lectures from biotech partners.

Requirements (what the programme expects from applicants)

• A solid foundational background in molecular biology, biochemistry, plant or microbial sciences (or closely related fields) is expected.
• Willingness and ability to undertake intensive laboratory work and advanced genetic-engineering projects.
• Interest in systems/synthetic biology, metabolic and redox regulation, and stress physiology at the molecular level.
• Motivation for research and development, with a view to pursuing a PhD or a career in the biotech sector.
• Openness to participate in company excursions, industry internships and guest-lecturer events as part of the training.

Curriculum overview

This two‑year, research‑oriented master's programme is built around intensive practical work and advanced seminars to prepare you for research or industry roles in microbial and plant biotechnology. Teaching combines small‑group interactive “lecture and reading” courses, a two‑part lecture on modern biological methods, and substantial laboratory training. The course sequence culminates in a substantial research practical and a 30‑credit master’s thesis, giving you hands‑on experience in experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.

Practical laboratory training is a major feature: two advanced practicals (each 12 CP) plus a further 12‑credit advanced practical or an industrial internship give extended, project‑style lab exposure. Elective/optional modules (15 CP) let you tailor the programme with additional theoretical topics, practical training or soft‑skills courses. A brief warm‑up meeting and research presentations start the programme to integrate the cohort and introduce ongoing projects.

For a full, detailed module description and timetable consult the programme website (PDF download available). The module list below shows credit points (CP) and whether modules are graded or ungraded.

Core modules and credit breakdown (requirements)

• Warm‑up meeting and research project presentations — 6 CP (ungraded)
• Four interactive "Lecture and Reading Courses" — 4 × 3 CP = 12 CP (graded)
• Two‑part lecture: "Modern Methods in Biology" — 2 × 3 CP = 6 CP (graded)
• Two advanced practicals — 2 × 12 CP = 24 CP (graded)
• Advanced practical or industrial internship — 12 CP (ungraded)
• Courses of choice (self‑chosen theoretical and/or practical training, including soft skills) — 15 CP (ungraded)
• Research practical — 15 CP (graded)
• Master’s thesis — 30 CP (graded)

Total across modules: 120 CP over the two‑year programme.

Key learning outcomes

• Mastery of contemporary experimental techniques and laboratory workflows used in microbial and plant biotechnology.
• Ability to design, execute and interpret independent research projects, including data handling and statistical analysis.
• Critical reading and synthesis of primary literature through interactive lecture/reading courses.
• Experience working in project teams, presenting research, and developing transferable soft skills for academic or industrial careers.

Graduates are prepared for research and development roles in the biotech industry as well as for continuation to doctoral studies. The combination of advanced laboratory skills, training in experimental design and exposure to industry partners makes alumni competitive candidates for positions in molecular biology, microbial and plant biotechnology, bioprocess development and related R&D teams.

Students who wish to pursue academia are well supported for PhD applications through research-focused practicals and thesis projects, while those aiming for industry benefit from internship options and direct contacts with biotech companies.