Molecular Biology (M.Sc./Ph.D.)

The integrated Master/PhD program offers excellent study and research conditions to prepare aspiring young scientists for a professional career in academia or science-related professions in the private or public sector. At any stage of their studies, the students are exposed to a broad spectrum of theoretical and practical training, individual counselling and guidance to prepare for taking well-informed decisions on their next career steps.

In 36 lecture weeks (accompanied by tutorials), 20 methods courses during the first three months of the master's program, and three eight-week research projects (lab rotations), students acquire in-depth knowledge in the following subject areas of molecular biosciences:

Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Genetics, Bioinformatics, Biophysics, Metabolic Physiology, Cell Biology, Oncology, Immunobiology, Neurobiology, Developmental Biology, Microbiology, Systems Biology, Biotechnology.

Professional skills such as good scientific practice, scientific writing, presentation techniques, design of scientific illustrations, and handling of experimental animals are taught in workshops and applied during lab rotations and reporting seminars.

In addition, all foreign students can participate in free German language courses, which are optionally offered at different levels as introductory intensive courses and evening courses throughout the study program.

During the subsequent PhD studies, students benefit from the wide range of qualifications (scientific methods courses, professional skills workshops, industry excursions, language courses, other events) offered by the Graduate School GAUSS and the Graduate Center GGNB.

Annual retreats of the Molecular Biology program, the student-organized international symposium Horizons in Molecular Biology and regular cultural nights contribute to a close personal and scientific exchange.

Master's stipends: All students are supported by a stipend of the Max Planck Society at the amount of 900 €/month during their entire master's studies, unless they receive comparable scholarships from other sources.

PhD funding: During their PhD studies, students are usually funded by the supervising institution through work/funding contracts. The program has as budget available for start-up, bridging, or wrap-up funding as needed.

Student activities: Budgets are available for students to attend international scientific conferences and student-organized, scientific or cultural events.

Newly admitted students receive info letters in preparation of their studies, advice, and a variety of administrative support as part of a two-week orientation program prior to their first year of study. Throughout their studies, students receive individual counselling from members of the programme regarding their course of study and the advancement of their skills, interests, and personal development.

The Molecular Biology program is regularly evaluated by independent external reviewers and has been rated several times as a model best practice example. Together with the Neurosciences program, it received the 2004 prize for excellent support services for foreign students by the Federal Foreign Minister and was awarded the label "Top 10 International Master's Degree Courses made in Germany" by "Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft" together with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) in a national contest.

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