This English-language Master’s program provides a thorough grounding in the cellular and molecular foundations of nervous system function and dysfunction. Core lecture topics cover functional neuroanatomy, sensory and motor systems, neurophysiology, the cellular and molecular biology of neurons and glia, neurochemistry and neurotransmitters, neurogenetics, and developmental neurobiology. Courses also address the genetic and molecular bases of neurological and psychiatric disorders and include focused modules on neuroglia.
Hands-on training is emphasized through coursework in microscopy and molecular imaging, tissue culture, tissue engineering and stem cell methods. Students gain both conceptual knowledge and laboratory skills relevant to modern neuroscience research. The program includes two laboratory rotations and a Master’s thesis project; students are able to select the labs where they conduct these practical components, allowing flexibility to pursue specific research interests.
Requirements & resources
The Master's runs over four semesters and is organized to move you from intensive theory to independent research. During the first and second semesters you will concentrate on classroom-based training — lectures, seminars, tutorials and journal clubs — with an examination period at the end of each semester to assess your understanding. This phase builds the conceptual foundation in cellular and molecular neuroscience and develops critical reading and discussion skills.
In the third semester the emphasis shifts entirely to hands-on work: you complete two laboratory rotations, each lasting ten weeks. These rotations give you practical experience with experimental techniques, exposure to different research groups or methodologies, and the opportunity to refine your research interests before committing to a thesis project.
The fourth semester is reserved for a six-month Master's thesis, during which you conduct an independent research project and produce a written dissertation. By the end of the programme you will have connected theoretical knowledge with practical lab skills, demonstrated the ability to design and run experiments, analysed and interpret data, and communicated scientific results — preparing you for doctoral studies or research roles in academia and industry.
Requirements / milestones
This programme is geared towards applicants who already hold a first degree (e.g. Bachelor's or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, biomedical science, medicine or a closely related discipline and who are motivated to work at the interface of basic research and clinical neuroscience. A clear interest in clinical aspects of neuroscience and in neural disorders is expected.
Successful study in this Master’s depends on a strong theoretical and practical foundation. In particular, advanced knowledge in genetics, biochemistry, and molecular and cell biology is essential, as these subjects underpin the laboratory work and research-oriented coursework you will encounter.
Winter Semester (International)
31 March 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
31 March 2026
Graduates are prepared for research-oriented careers in academia and industry, particularly in cellular and molecular neuroscience, neurodegenerative disease research, and related biomedical fields. The programme's strong emphasis on laboratory techniques, imaging, molecular genetics and hands-on rotations makes alumni competitive for PhD positions, research assistant roles, and careers in translational neuroscience within universities, research institutes and biotech/pharmaceutical companies.
Additional career pathways include roles in clinical research, diagnostics development, and R&D in neuropharmacology and biotechnology. The combination of theoretical coursework and practical laboratory rotations also supports transition into interdisciplinary teams and further specialised training or regulatory/science-policy roles related to neuroscience research.