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Modules in the Molecular Biotechnology program

The course offerings in the program represent the broad range of molecular and cellular biology-oriented subfields within Molecular Biotechnology. The teaching of each module is conducted by scientists from the Philipps University, the neighboring Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, the LOEWE Center for Synthetic Microbiology, and partners from the local biotech industry. This ensures not only a wide range of content but also a high level of expertise.

The program consists of compulsory and elective modules. Compulsory modules must be taken as they provide important and fundamental knowledge through in-depth lectures, seminars, and practical exercises. In elective modules, you have the opportunity to choose the topic of your specialization within a given framework, allowing you to shape your profile according to your interests.

The structure of the study program in modules

Here you will find an overview of all modules offered in the MSc Molecular Biotechnology program, categorized by module types. For detailed information about each module, please consult the program's module handbook. To get a quick overview of the overall progression of the program, you can refer to the study plan.

  • Advanced modules

    Main topics in molecular biology (compulsory module)
    Upon successful completion of the module, you will acquire extensive theoretical knowledge encompassing various technologies used in the purification, synthesis, analysis, and modification of biological metabolites, macromolecules, metabolic pathways, and the genetic manipulation of cells. Additionally, you will develop the skills necessary to independently conduct literature research, extracting crucial information and critically evaluating presented research findings. You will also gain proficiency in delivering compelling oral presentations of your own research outcomes. This comprehensive training equips you for active engagement in conferences and scientific meetings, where you can contribute and participate effectively in the scientific community.  

    Biotechnological production (compulsory elective module)
    This module offers a comprehensive exploration of the biotechnological production process for pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. It encompasses a range of topics, including the scientific, technological, and regulatory aspects of manufacturing and quality assurance in an industrial context. By bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry applications, the module provides valuable insights into industrial research and development. It also promotes the development of interdisciplinary competencies and highlights the diverse roles within industrial biotechnology. Upon completion, you will possess the necessary knowledge to integrate into pharmaceutical and biotech companies, contributing to research and development, production, and management at various levels.

    Technologies and methods: bioanalytics and chemical analytics (compulsory module)
    After completing the module, students will have basic theoretical and practical knowledge of a self-chosen range of methods in biological and chemical analysis. Building on the previous individual training, the participants have expanded their range of methods precisely to fit their needs. They can use the acquired methodological knowledge to plan and prepare practical experiments and apply them with expertise. They are able to analyze, critically evaluate and document the results of the tests they have obtained. They can work on scientific facts from the field of key methods of biological and chemical analysis, communicate them to a specialist audience in the context of a presentation and discuss them. They can understand and use current English-language literature on methodological approaches in biological and chemical analysis.

    Technologies and methods: cell engineering and analytics (compulsory module)
    After completing the module, students will have basic theoretical and practical knowledge of a self-chosen range of methods for manipulating a wide range of cell-based systems. Building on the previous individual training, the participants have expanded their range of methods precisely to fit their needs. They can use the acquired methodological knowledge to plan and prepare practical experiments and apply them with expertise. They are able to analyze, critically evaluate and document the results of the tests they have obtained. They are able to review scientific facts from the field of key methods of manipulating cell functions, communicate them to a specialist audience in the context of a presentation and discuss them. They can understand and use current English-language literature from the fields of genetic engineering of cells and synthetic biology. 

    Technologies and methods: computational biology (compulsory module)
    After completing the module, students will have basic theoretical and practical knowledge of a self -chosen range of methods for the mathematical and bioinformatic analysis of biological systems and sequences. Building on the previous individual training, the participants have expanded their range of methods precisely to fit their needs. They can use the acquired methodological knowledge to plan and prepare practical experiments and apply them with expertise. They are able to analyze, critically evaluate and document the results of the tests they have obtained. They are able to review scientific facts from the field of key methods of manipulating cell functions, communicate them to a specialist audience in the context of a presentation and discuss them. They can understand and use current English -language specialist literature from the fields of biomathematics and bioinformatics. 

    Management and business (compulsory module)
    In this module, you will acquire fundamental theories, concepts, and processes related to starting your own business ventures. Emphasizing the importance of soft skills, which play a significant role in the success of startups, the course integrates personal development and fosters creativity. The module places a strong emphasis on real-world application, offering in-depth exercises and incorporating experienced practitioners from the entrepreneurial field.  

    Biotechnological production (compulsory elective module)
    This module offers a comprehensive exploration of the biotechnological production process for pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. It encompasses a range of topics, including the scientific, technological, and regulatory aspects of manufacturing and quality assurance in an industrial context. By bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry applications, the module provides valuable insights into industrial research and development. It also promotes the development of interdisciplinary competencies and highlights the diverse roles within industrial biotechnology. Upon completion, you will possess the necessary knowledge to integrate into pharmaceutical and biotech companies, contributing to research and development, production, and management at various levels.

    Bioprocess engineering (compulsory elective module)
    As you engage in this module, you will delve into the fundamental theories and concepts behind biotechnological manufacturing processes, focusing specifically on the cultivation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. By the end of the module, you will have mastered methods for quantitatively measuring cell growth and metabolism. Furthermore, you will possess a solid foundation of knowledge regarding different types of bioreactors, process control, and process monitoring. You will also acquire the knowledge to identify and quantitatively describe limitations in the efficiency of production strains using modern high-throughput methods. Furthermore, you will master experimental evolution techniques and successfully apply them to optimize the metabolic and physiological properties of production strains for fermentation processes. Applying this knowledge, you will be capable of formulating strategies to improve production capacities and for designing effective processes in the field of biotechnological production. 

    Enzyme production and strain development in bioprocess engineering (compulsory elective module)
    The successful completion of the module will enable students to use modern high -throughput - based methods to identify and quantitatively describe constraints in the efficiency of production strains and to develop and implement strategies for improving production capacities. The students will have mastered methods of experimental evolution and can successfully implement them to optimize the metabolic and physiological properties of production strains for fermentation processes and the biochemical properties of the produced proteins. 

    Bioanalytics (compulsory elective module, import module)
    Information on imported modules can be found on the offering degree program websites.

  • Internship (compulsory)

    Through your internship, which should be aligned with the molecular biotechnology curriculum, you will gain valuable insights into potential professional fields. The internship offers flexibility, allowing you to split it into a maximum of three parts of equal duration and carry them out in different research labs. This provides you with ample opportunities to apply and test the competencies you have acquired during the initial phase of your degree program. By undertaking the internship, you will acquire knowledge about work processes and techniques that complement your studies and enhance your preparation for your future career. It is important to document your experiences in a report, reflecting on your learnings and achievements. This module will also aid in shaping your perspectives for further studies and/or future professional activities.

  • Research project (compulsory)

    During this module, you will have the opportunity to conduct your first independent research project, integrating the advanced theoretical and practical knowledge you have gained throughout the Molecular Biotechnology program. You will work in a research laboratory of your choice, where you will develop the skills to plan and execute experiments according to your own design. Under the guidance of experienced researchers, you will critically analyze the experimental findings, gaining valuable insights into the research process. This hands-on experience will enhance your scientific competence and prepare you for future research endeavors in the field of molecular biotechnology.

  • Master´s thesis (compulsory)

    Throughout this module, you will significantly deepen your theoretical, methodological, and practical knowledge in a specialized area of molecular and cellular biology and biotechnology, ensuring that you stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field. You will acquire the skills to independently investigate and explore a defined topic within a given timeframe, employing scientific principles and methodologies. Additionally, you will further develop your aptitude for actively participating in critical scientific discourse, engaging in thought-provoking discussions and knowledge exchange with fellow researchers and faculty members.

The module handbook

The module handbook contains detailed information about all the modules available in the study program. A module description provides you with information about the specific components that make up the module, the main topics covered, the prerequisites required to enroll in the module, the approximate time commitment (in hours) expected from you, and how your final grade will be determined.

It is highly recommended that you familiarize yourself with the module descriptions at the beginning of your studies to ensure a smooth academic journey.

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