German-French Human and Molecular Biology

The German-French Master’s programme in Human and Molecular Biology at Saarland University offers students an exceptional interdisciplinary education that combines advanced knowledge in human biology, molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. This programme is developed to prepare graduates for diverse careers in research, healthcare, and biotechnology sectors, emphasizing both theoretical understanding and practical skills. Throughout the programme, students will engage with cutting-edge scientific techniques and methodologies, participate in laboratory work, and conduct individual research projects, fostering a comprehensive understanding of cellular and molecular processes in human health and disease. The curriculum is designed to promote international collaboration and cultural exchange, taking advantage of the university’s partnerships in Germany and France, stimulating multilingual communication and cross-cultural competence. In addition to rigorous scientific training, students will gain competencies in data analysis, scientific writing, and presentation, enabling them to excel in academic or industry research environments. The programme is conducted bilingually in German and French, providing students with language proficiency tailored to scientific contexts, which is increasingly valuable in the global job market. Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to pursue doctoral studies or to enter careers in medical research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, or biotechnology enterprises, where interdisciplinary knowledge and international experience are highly valued. Overall, the German-French Human and Molecular Biology Master’s programme at Saarland University aims to develop highly qualified experts capable of contributing to the advancement of biomedical sciences, improving healthcare solutions, and addressing global health challenges through innovative research and collaboration.

Educational organisation

The four-semester Master's programme aims to link and combine the students' prior knowledge of the subject through a series of interdisciplinary modules. The programme focuses on important issues in biomedicine and molecular biology, such as "Genetically Induced Diseases and Epigenetics"; "Signal Transmission and Transport"; "Hormones, Stress and Memory" and "Infection Biology". Students also prepare and develop a research project and draft the associated funding application.
During their second year, students spends several months carrying out practical laboratory work in one of the departmental research groups. This gives students the chance to contribute in a meaningful way to a real-life research project before they begin to work on their own Master's research project.
Students on the programme spend the first two semesters at their respective home university. The third and fourth semesters are spent at the partner university. The final-year research project and thesis are completed at the student's partner university.

Study abroad unit(s)

Students on the programme spend the first two semesters at their respective home university. The third and fourth semesters are spent at the partner university. Graduates from the MSc programme have the opportunity to pursue further research by entering a doctoral research programme.

Forms of assessment

Exams, credit points, project work, thesis

Course objectives

The course aims:

• to provide students with an advanced understanding of human and molecular biology in their chosen fields of specialisation
• to give students deeper insight into important issues in contemporary research
• to prepare students for doctoral research work
• to provide students with the skills needed to work internationally in an academic or industrial environment

Language requirements

Applicants must have German (DSH certificate required for non-native speakers) and French skills.

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

Applicants must have a German higher education entrance qualification (Abitur) or an equivalent higher education entrance qualification from the student's home country. They must also hold a Bachelor's degree (BSc) or equivalent in biology or another relevant discipline.

Enrolment fees

Approx. 200 EUR per semester, including a semester ticket covering public transport in the Saarbrücken area

Costs of living

About 800 EUR per month to cover personal expenses (incl. accommodation)

Job opportunities

It is possible to work at the department, for example, doing laboratory work or accompanying Bachelor's/Master's students in their practical work/seminars.

Funding opportunities within the university

Students receive financial support from the DFH (German-French University) during the study abroad phase.

Arrival support

The International Office can help incoming students with a number of issues that need to be dealt with on arrival, including finding suitable accommodation as well as registering with the university and with the local authorities. The International Office also organises social and recreational events and intercultural training sessions.

Services and support for international students

Saarland University offers a special support and guidance service for our international students and visiting scholars. As well as welcoming new foreign students to the university, we organise excursions and cultural events where students and scholars from abroad can meet German students and colleagues. We also provide support in dealing with official and administrative matters. To encourage interaction between German and international students, the international office also runs a successful peer mentoring programme called "you and me".

Accommodation

Rooms and apartments are relatively easy to find and are affordable. For more information, please visit. For more information, please visit: http://www.studentenwerk-saarland.de/en/Wohnen