Master Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Modern life sciences require training of the next generation of scientists with strong background knowledge of key research areas. This has to be complemented with a solid understanding of state-of–the-art methods and technologies. Our international Master’s program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology focusses on a broad spectrum of research topics ranging from molecules to cells and animal or plant life. The different research teams in our program have core expertise in the fields of biomedicine, molecular plant sciences, evolutionary systems biology, and macromolecular systems. Master’s students will be involved in research using the latest technologies in genomics, genetics, systematic bio- and protein analysis, and high-end microscopy. Currently, an international and diverse group of approximately 150 students is enrolled in the program while living in the Potsdam/Berlin area, one of Germany’s culturally and scientifically most vibrant regions.

Program Content

This Master’s program combines exciting basic research in the following core areas:

-  Biomedicine

-  Molecular plant sciences

-  Evolutionary systems biology

-  Macromolecular systems

These topics will be addressed with are range of methods including:

-  Genomics

-  Genetics

-  Systematic bioanalytical tools and protein analysis

-  High-end microscopy

Within the program, you can selectfrom a broad choice of both practical and theoretical modules for each of the core areas. This allows you to follow your interests and to pursue research projects in the course of a personalized curriculum.

In the field of biochemistry, you will focus on the dynamics and processes of protein synthesis and function, as well as their interactions at intra- and extracellular levels. These processes are relevant for practical applications such as diagnosis and therapy of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative pathologies, and tumorigenesis.

Molecular biology addresses molecular processes at the level of molecules, cells and organisms. This research provides important new insights into questions related to genome research, cellular and systems biology, and animal and plant development and physiology.

In this Master’s program, you will study and work on cutting-edge research topics in biochemistry and molecular biology. This training will provide you with a comprehensive knowledge in the fields of modern sequencing technologies, genome manipulation, high-end light and electron microscopy, bioanalytical methods, as well as qualitative and systematic protein analysis. You will also learn to use biological databases, Internet-supported resources, and be in a position to interpret high-throughput data.

Course Objective and Future Career Options

In this Master’s program you will acquire specialized knowledge in our core research areas and you will be able to apply state-of-the-art methods to current research questions in the field. You will also gain a thorough understanding of the essential concepts in biochemistry and molecular biology. This will enable you to formulate scientific problems on your own, select appropriate methods and techniques to solve them, successfully accomplish the project, and summarize your results in a manuscript.

The skills that you acquire in the master’s program qualify you for work in research and development at biotech or biomedical companies, universities or other scientific institutions. Further career paths of our graduates are in science writing, journalism, science administration or management, and in academic research as a doctoral student.

The Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is located in the Potsdam Science Parc based in Golm, which also provides great opportunities for research experiences in one of the extramural institutes and research institutions, such as the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology (MPI-MP), the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces (MPIKG), and the Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI-BB). The Science Parc is complemented with institutions to support start-ups, innovation, and the transfer of knowledge and technology (Potsdam Transfer) as well as the career of our graduates (Career Service).

THE PROGRAM AT A GLANCE