This integrated Master's-to-PhD programme combines intensive coursework with hands-on research to prepare students for careers in academia or science-related roles in industry and the public sector. During the Master's phase you receive broad theoretical and practical training, close mentoring and individual guidance to help shape your next career steps. Professional skills—such as good scientific practice, scientific writing, presentation techniques, graphical design for scientific illustrations, and animal handling—are taught in workshops and reinforced during lab rotations and reporting seminars.
The taught component includes 36 lecture weeks supported by tutorials, 20 methods courses delivered in the first three months of the Master’s phase, and three laboratory rotations of eight weeks each. These elements give you in-depth exposure across molecular biosciences, including:
International students can take advantage of free, optional German language courses offered at various levels (intensive introductory and evening classes) throughout the programme. As you progress into the PhD phase, additional training and career development opportunities are available through the Graduate School GAUSS and the Graduate Center GGNB (methods courses, professional workshops, industry visits, language courses and other events). The programme also fosters a close community through annual retreats, the student-organised international symposium “Horizons in Molecular Biology,” and regular cultural evenings.
Practical details & application-related points
Description
This research-focused programme combines intensive coursework with hands-on laboratory training under the supervision of leading scientists from partner institutes. During the first year you receive concentrated theoretical and practical instruction—70% practical exposure in state-of-the-art laboratories through methods courses and individually supervised research projects—so you build both conceptual understanding and experimental competence in modern molecular life sciences.
The programme is structured as an 18‑month integrated Master’s/PhD pathway. In the first year (October–July) you complete 90 ECTS of modules that include lectures and tutorials, practical methods courses, short research-group presentations, professional skills training, lab rotations/research projects and a Master’s seminar. The first year ends with a written plus two oral Master’s examinations in August. After passing those exams you either write a six‑month Master’s thesis (30 ECTS) to receive the MSc at 18 months and then typically continue into PhD research, or—if you achieve good to excellent results—you may be admitted directly into a three‑year doctoral project without completing the Master’s thesis (fast‑track). Most students proceed to PhD research in the programme without needing additional panel-based admission interviews.
Key modules and learning outcomes
Program requirements (concise)
This program expects applicants to hold a Bachelor’s degree (or an equivalent qualification) with a minimum of 120 ECTS (or comparable credit volume) by the time they apply. Candidates should have studied a relevant subject such as molecular biosciences, cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, biotechnology, or a closely related discipline. The intake is in October; plan your application according to the specified timeline below.
The online application portal is open each year from 15 September to 15 January. Your application should include information about your academic background and motivation, uploads of all required documents, and the contact details of two referees who will provide letters of recommendation. Make sure to notify your referees well in advance so they can submit their references on time.
Selection is conducted in multiple rounds. Applicants are notified in the second half of January whether they proceed to the second round, which consists of a 15‑minute online interview at the end of January. A final selection round takes place in mid‑February, where admission decisions are based on two personal interviews (30 minutes each).
Practical tips for international applicants: confirm how your degree and credits equate to ECTS and provide certified translations if needed; give referees ample notice; and bear in mind the October start date when planning visa, funding, and relocation timelines.
Requirements (concise)
Winter Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
The programme is designed to prepare graduates for doctoral research and careers in academia, research institutes, biotechnology and other science‑related professions in the public or private sector. The intensive practical training and multiple lab rotations enable students to develop a competitive profile for PhD positions and research roles.
Most students continue into PhD research within the programme or at partner institutions; others move into industry research, science communication or policy roles where advanced molecular biology skills and experience in experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication are required.