Master's Programme in Molecular Medicine

Year 1

During the first year, you will focus on molecular mechanisms and cellular processes causing genetic diseases including cancer as well as other diseases. You will learn about methods and technologies for assessing genetic and epigenetic variations, current clinical diagnostics and novel treatment approaches. You will study in-depth research-oriented problems in molecular medicine and be trained in experimental design and laboratory work. You will also be trained to evaluate and present research results in writing and in seminars. A seminar series will provide knowledge about research ethics, ethical approvals and other professional skills.

Applications and use of new sequencing technologies, bioinformatics and other analysis of research results in genomics and epigenetics are discussed as well as current methods in the analysis of proteins and identification of novel disease biomarkers. In the laboratory, you will, for example, study epigenetic changes using state-of-the-art methods as well as perform diagnostic analysis and cellular protein interactions using proximity ligation assay (PLA).

Throughout the programme, you will meet a large number of researchers and lecturers from different universities and companies, but also visit Life Science companies and clinical laboratories as well as participate in international conferences when possible.

Year 2

In the second year, you will learn digital analysis and diagnostics by molecular imaging. The course Regenerative Medicine discusses stem cell therapies, tissue engineering, generation of biomaterials, as well as novel cell- and immunotherapies against cancer and other human diseases. In the laboratory, you will perform in vitro differentiation of neuronal stem cells and generate iPSC models. If you are interested in research and in gaining laboratory experience, you can apply for short research projects.

The programme is concluded with an independent Master's Degree project in Molecular Medicine corresponding to 30 or 45 credits, which you undertake in an academic research group or in a company, in Sweden or abroad.

Courses within the programme

Year 1

• Medical Genetics and Cancer; Molecular Mechanisms, 15 credits
• Advanced Techniques in Molecular Medicine, 15 credits
• Genomic and Epigenomic Medicine, 15 credits
• Molecular Tools for Proteome Analysis, 7.5 credits
• Biomarkers, Discovery and Validation, 7.5 credits

Year 2

• Bioimaging and Cell Analysis, 7.5 credits
• Regenerative Medicine, 7.5 credits
• elective course(s), 15 credits
• Master's Degree project in Molecular Medicine, 30 credits

or

• Bioimaging and Cell Analysis, 7.5 credits
• Regenerative Medicine, 7.5 credits
• Master's Degree project in Molecular Medicine 45 credits (or Master´s degree project with animal science)
  

Teaching in the Master's Programme in Molecular Medicine includes lectures, seminars, computer or web-based exercises, demonstrations, project work as well as theoretical and practical tasks, conducted both in groups and individually. The lectures provide you with an understanding of current research and perspectives and are given by scientists specialising in the field. During seminars, we will discuss experimental methods, strategies and research results, while reviewing the current scientific literature.

The programme is tightly linked to ongoing biomedical and molecular research, scientific problems and methods relevant to both academia and industry. You will interact with researchers and clinicians from Uppsala University, Uppsala University Hospital, and other universities, providing an advanced education, connected with local life science companies and the drug industry.

You will independently compile and present research findings, both in writing and orally. Apart from training in independent thinking and analysis, you will obtain direct insights into ongoing research early on. You will gain practical experience with current methods in genomics, epigenomics and proteomics. You will be part of a dynamic academic research environment with access to expertise and state-of-the-art technologies.

The Master's programme in Molecular Medicine is international with students from many different countries. During your studies, the students are building a network which opens possibilities for a further international career and future collaborations. Several of our students undertake their degree projects at well-known universities and research institutes all over the world or in different companies, which can provide valuable merits in a global job market.

The programme is taught entirely in English.

With an advanced education in Molecular Medicine, you are well‑prepared for a career in research, healthcare systems, pharmaceutical or life science companies, or governmental organisations.

In-depth knowledge about molecular mechanisms causing disease as well as state-of-the-art methods and applications for genomic, epigenetic and proteomic studies is crucial for continued development of precision medicine and personalised healthcare. The programme's strong emphasis on cutting-edge research prepares you well for further academic research and PhD studies in the field.

A majority of our graduates pursue PhD studies at leading universities in Sweden and abroad and continue their careers in academic research. Some graduates also choose to work in Life Science companies as, for example, project managers, laboratory engineers, clinical process coordinators or application specialists.

Most students secure their first job before graduation or within six months after their graduation.

If you continue with PhD studies, you may join one of our research groups at the Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology (IGP).

Research at IGP

The Department conducts advanced research in Cancer Immunotherapy, Cancer Precision Medicine, Genomics and Neurobiology, Molecular Tools and Functional Genomics, Neuro-oncology and Neurodegeneration, and Vascular Biology. Research is also linked to the Clinical units for Immunology, Genetics, Pathology and Oncology, which provides clinical insights into education.

IGP - located in the Rudbeck Laboratory, in Uppsala Biomedical Centre and at Uppsala University Hospital - houses high-tech equipment in core facilities also utilised for experimental analysis in the Master's programme.

Career support

During your time as a student, UU Careers offers support and guidance. You have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities and events that will prepare you for your future career.