Master's programme in biology

Uppsala University is among the world leaders in biological research with centres of excellence and strong research groups in such widely differing fields as evolutionary biology, genomics, ecology, limnology, RNA research, biophysics and structural biology. Studying ecology and environmental science in Sweden is facilitated by easy access to pristine nature for field studies. Uppsala is also one of the top ten biotech regions in the world with a great number of small and large biotech companies, influenced by, and employing, new researchers from Uppsala University. Collaborations between Uppsala University, biotech companies and national authorities generate a stimulating educational environment.

Specialisations

Cell and Molecular Biology

This specialisation provides you with an in-depth understanding from molecular systems to interactions within complex systems and within cells and organelles. This course is suitable for pharmaceutical research and other biotechnical applications, as well as basic scientific research in cell and molecular biology. The student may also turn towards microbiology or structural biology.

Ecology and conservation

Within this specialisation, you may choose among theoretical courses dealing with plants, animals and micro-organisms and their interactions, or alternatively, vocational courses aiming at a future career in nature conservation within industry, the public sector or other organisations.

Evolutionary Biology

This specialisation is characterised by the integration of field, laboratory and theoretical studies, and embraces areas such as evolutionary ecology, genomics, macro-evolution, and development biology. Studies may also be turned towards biological multiplicity and systematics.

Immunology and Microbiology

This specialisation focuses on how the immune system discovers and removes pathogenic bacteria, viruses and parasites. In addition to studies in microbiology, analyses are also made of events at cellular and molecular levels when the immune system overreacts or has insufficient tolerance towards body tissue when, for instance, allergies and autoimmunity arise.

Ecosystems and Aquatic Ecology

Freshwater ecology, including physical, chemical and biological interactions in aquatic ecosystems, from microbes to fish. This specialisation can be directed towards a research carrier, but also has strong coupling to practical management of aquatic ecosystems and water resources.

Environmental Toxicology

This specialisation covers the entire chain of the impact of chemicals on nature, from biochemical effects in living cells, via physiological effects on cells, organs and individuals to consequences at population and ecosystem levels. The programme has substantial applied aspects within fields such as risk assessment, environmental impact descriptions and the testing of chemicals.

NABiS – Nordic Master in Biodiversity and Systematics

Biodiversity and Systematics concerns the multitude of organisms living on our planet and the evolutionary relationships among them. Far from all existing organisms have been discovered and described, and among those organisms science knows of, classification is still ambiguous. In this programme, students are trained to gain the systematic and taxonomic expertise needed in our society to be able to take action against loss of biodiversity.

Degree project

Information about the degree project.