Master in Molecular biology (first and second master module)
Master studies in Molecular Biology takes place in the fourth and fifth year of University studies. The subject of Molecular Biology is combined with another subject, often Chemistry or Environmental Biology. The study activities of each subject correspond to 60 ECTS, equal to one year of full time study. Each subject consists of 30 ECTS courses and 30 ECTS project work. Most students in Molecular Biology chose an experimental Master thesis project of 60 ECTS combining their two subjects. If this is your choice you should take most of your courses during the first year, since the Master thesis has to be completed as the last study activity. The course schedules in the subjects normally combined with Molecular Biology have been coordinated such that you can study the subjects in parallel, e.g. approx. 15 ECTS courses in each subject each semester. It is recommended that you make your own study plan when you start your Master studies. You can find details about the courses in the Study handbooks of the different subjects (Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Biology) and/or on kursus.ruc.dk . You are welcome to contact the Study councellor of the subject for help with your study plan.
1. Master Module in Molecular Biology consists of two compulsory courses and a number of elective courses. You can chose between two different profiles: Cell Biology or Bioinformatics. The course in ”Eukaryotic Cell Biology” is compulsory for both lines, while the other course is ”Experimental Biotechnology” and “Bioinformatics” respectively.
Course overview (Master studies):
Eukaryotic Cell Biology (7.5 ECTS). This is a theoretical course that will provide you with insight into central topics of cell biology, such as formation of cellular compartments and organelles as well as cellular regulatory mechanisms. The course is in the Spring term. Read more about the course.
Experimental Biotechnology (5 ECTS). The course aims at introducing how biotechnology can be used to produce, purify and characterize proteins and peptides and how mutations can be introduced in vitro. In this course the student is trained in independent planning and performance of experimental work. The course comprises 10 full days of laboratory work. The course takes place during the last two weeks of January. Read more about the course.
Bioinformatics (12.5 ECTS). The course aims at giving the student a thorough introduction to computer programmes for searches and analyses in the different web databases for i.e. DNA and protein sequences, protein structures, motifs/signals, and array data. Important topics are phylogeny and protein structure modeling. The teaching is based on computer exercises and problem solving supplemented by lectures. The course is offered in the Spring term in collaboration with DIS. Read more about the course.
Introductory Bioinformatics (5 ECTS). The course gives an introduction to programmes for homology searches in sequence databases for prediction of coding sequences and protein structures. The teaching is based on computer exercises and problem solving supplemented by lectures. The course is offered in the Spring term and consists of five modules of the Bioinformatics course. Read more about the course.
Advanced Eukaryotic Cell Biology (5 ECTS). A theoretical course that aims at giving the student in-depth knowledge about regulation of cellular growth and intercellular interactions. The course is offered in the Spring term. Read more about the course.
Bacterial Physiology (5 ECTS). A theoretical course that aims at giving the student in-depth knowledge about the molecular mechanisms for regulation of bacterial growth, gene expression and interaction with the environment. The course is a seminar type and the teaching is based on original research papers. The students are trained in oral presentation of scientific data. The course is offered in the Fall term. Read more about the course.
Experimental Cell Biology (5 ECTS). An experimental course on in vitro techniques comprising cultivation of mammalian cells, visualization of cellular structures and cell cycle analysis. The course consists of laboratory work corresponding to 10 days full time. The course takes place during 2-3 weeks in June/July. A passed exam in Eukaryotic Cell biology is a compulsory prerequisite for participation. Read more about the course.
Biotechnological Drug Development (2.5 ECTS). A 5 day practical and theoretical course in purification and characterization of antimicrobial peptides as potential drug candidates. The course takes place during the first week(s) of February. Participation in the course in Biotechnology is a compulsory prerequisite. Read more about the course.
Human and Animal Physiology (5 ECTS). A theoretical course with emphasis on basic human-physiological mechanisms. Physiological principles from different animal phyla are introduced with the human mechanisms as starting point. The course aims at providing the students with an overview of the physiological mode of action described at the level of cells, organs and organisms. The course is offered in the Fall term. Read more about the course.
Medical Microbiology (5 ECTS). A theoretical course that gives insight into molecular bacteriology and virology as well as knowledge of the most common diseases caused by bacteria and viruses. The course aims at providing a basic understanding of infection mechanisms and strategies for treatment of infectious diseases. The course is offered in the Fall term. Read more about the course.
Host Defense Peptides (2.5 ECTS). A seminar course aimed at giving the students insight into novel and innovative strategies for fighting bacterial infections based on naturally occurring peptides. The teaching is based on reviews and original research papers. The course is offered in the Spring term. Read more about the course.
Theme courses (2.5 or 5 ECTS). An individual course that is agreed between the student(s) and the teacher and approved by the Head of Biology studies. The course can either be a literature study or an experimental pre-study for the master thesis project. Read more about the course.