The Master Programme in Molecular Biology and Genetics is a 2-year second level degree (Biology class) is an intensive, full-time graduate programme entirely taught in English and designed for graduates at the BA level who are seeking a qualification in advanced areas of Biology, with special attention to Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Biochemistry. Graduates will acquire a strong theoretical an
d methodological background relevant to both basic and applied aspects of these disciplines. The programme will provide a state-of-the-art knowledge and training in biomolecular sciences, including the most recent advances in genomics and proteomics of human and animal organisms, in the study of biomolecular structures and their connection to function, and in the genetic manipulation of bacteria, human and animal cells and seed plants. Specific courses are: Advanced Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Cellular Biochemistry, Developmental Biology, Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Human Molecular Genetics, Methods in Biochemistry, Microbial Genetics, Molecular Microbiology, Molecular Pharmacology, Structural Biology and Pharmacology. The following courses will also be offered as optional: Advanced Microscopy, Molecular Entomology, Molecular Genetics, Immunology. The programme will also provide expertise in the technologies required for the utilization of microorganisms, animals, and plants as factories for the production of biologically active molecules including therapeutic compounds. The students are expected to carry out a scientific investigation under the supervision of a faculty member (38 credits). The experimental work carried out during the two year-Degree, must result into a Dissertation (Master of Sciences) that will represent an essential component of the Course programme. In this context, the graduates will benefit from the informal atmosphere between staff and students that is traditional in our University. For the experimental component of the Curriculum each student will be associated to a research group and actively participate in one of the group’s research projects. Strengths
• First Master Degree in Molecular Biology and Genetics to have been activated in Italy;
• Entirely taught in English;
• Lectures are given by Italian Professors from the University of Pavia and “Visiting Professors” from foreign Institutions;
• More than 60 students in the academic year 2015/2016 and 2016/2017;
• 20-25% of foreign students, coming from all over the world;
• Students join a laboratory, carry out a research project under the supervision of the laboratory head, write and discuss an experimental thesis in English
Aims and Objectives
• Provide students with an excellent background in the theoretical aspects of biomolecular sciences and familiarity with laboratory techniques.
• Stimulate the capability of students to plan and implement research projects and to critically evaluate the results of their research and those of the scientific literature.
• Expose the students to the present frontiers of research in the life sciences exploiting also lectures and seminars given by invited international scientists of excellent level.
• Develop the students writing and oral scientific communication skills in view of their future interaction with the international scientific community.
• Develop their ability to perform team work.
• Provide the ability to critically assess the usefulness of theoretical, experimental and practical methodologies for the analysis and solution of scientific questions and issues.
• Provide the opportunity for students to gain and enhance the knowledge and skills required by research organisations and biotechnology companies.
• Provide the ability of the students to bring to the society at large the benefits of advanced research in the life sciences. Job profile
A Molecular Biology and Genetics Master degree may offer a successful introduction for different types of jobs throughout society. Graduates will find work opportunities in a wide range of fields and institutions, including a possible continuation of the study towards a qualified PhD degree for a career in the academic or research organization world, or employment in the health sector, in biotech companies, in agrobusiness research, in the communication media, as well as for teaching in the private or public sectors.
