This master's programme provides an integrated education bridging classical immunology with systems biology approaches. You will gain a deep understanding of the immune system’s molecular and structural mechanisms while learning to view immunity as a complex, multi-level system. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with practical applications so you learn how molecular interactions translate into cellular and organismal immune responses.
Training emphasizes modern high-throughput and computational methods: substantial coursework and hands-on labs cover genomics, epigenetics and bioinformatics. Expect to work with genomic datasets, learn epigenomic profiling concepts and apply bioinformatic analysis tools, equipping you to investigate immune processes from molecules to integrative systems. This blend prepares graduates for research roles in academia, biotech and clinical research where quantitative and experimental expertise are required.
Typical entry information and programme facts
This MSc programme combines deep theoretical modules with hands‑on experimental training to develop a rigorous understanding of immunobiology across scales — from molecules to whole systems. Core lecture topics include innate and adaptive immunity, genomics and epigenetics, systems biology and bioinformatics (including big‑data approaches), immune regulation in barrier organs, experimental animals and bioethics, methods and statistics, and good scientific practice. The course begins with two non‑graded elective overview lectures designed to fill any gaps in foundational knowledge.
Practical training is a major component. Students take two introductory methods courses with several weeks of bench work to learn key laboratory techniques and data‑handling. Each student also completes two independent lab rotations: each rotation consists of seven weeks of experimental work, one week for data analysis, and a written report formatted like a scientific research article. Rotations and the final thesis can be carried out at the LIMES Institute, partner organizations (German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Bayer Pharma) or at other universities in Germany or abroad—offering wide exposure to academic and industry research environments.
Assessment emphasizes both subject mastery and interdisciplinary integration. An oral immunology exam tests material from immunology, systems biology, genomics and epigenetics and requires students to demonstrate broad understanding and the ability to connect concepts across fields. The programme culminates in a six‑month Master’s thesis carried out within a research group at LIMES, at a partner institution, or at another university in Germany or internationally.
Admission requirements
This program expects applicants to hold a relevant bachelor's degree with a minimum academic standard and hands-on research experience. All instruction is delivered in English, so non-native speakers must prove English proficiency with an internationally recognised test (see the "Language requirements" section for accepted certificates).
Applicants should also have completed specific coursework during their bachelor’s studies: at least three modules adding up to a minimum of 30 ECTS in core life‑science areas, and their bachelor’s thesis must have been experimental or in bioinformatics.
Required documents/qualifications (bullet points)
Winter Semester (International)
30 April 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
30 June 2026
Graduates are prepared for research-focused roles in academia, research institutes and the life sciences industry (biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies), especially in areas that require combined experimental and computational expertise such as immunogenomics, translational immunology and bioinformatics. The programme also provides a strong foundation for pursuing a PhD in immunology, systems biology or related biomedical fields.
Skills gained — including advanced laboratory techniques, genomic and epigenetic analysis, bioinformatics and systems-level reasoning — are attractive for roles in translational research, diagnostic development, and data-driven biology teams within private and public organisations.