Global Leaders in Life Sciences

Global Leaders in Life Sciences is a prestigious interdisciplinary graduate program at Hokkaido University designed to cultivate the next generation of internationally-minded experts in the life sciences. This program offers a unique combination of advanced coursework, hands-on research experience, and cross-cultural collaboration aimed at addressing global challenges in health, environment, and biotechnology. Students will have the opportunity to engage with leading researchers and industry professionals, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in fields such as molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, and systems biology. The program emphasizes innovative approaches and interdisciplinary methodologies, fostering a comprehensive understanding of complex biological systems and their applications to real-world problems.

The curriculum is structured to provide a solid foundation in core scientific principles while encouraging specialization in areas aligned with the students’ interests and career goals. Participants will undertake rigorous research projects under the guidance of eminent faculty members, often involving international partners and collaborative initiatives. They will also benefit from seminars, workshops, and guest lectures delivered by global experts, ensuring exposure to diverse perspectives and cutting-edge developments in the life sciences.

A distinctive feature of the program is its international environment, welcoming students from multiple countries and backgrounds. This diversity enriches the learning experience, promoting the exchange of ideas and fostering global networks of future scientific leaders. Additionally, the program encourages language proficiency and intercultural communication skills essential for leadership roles in multinational research and industry settings.

Graduates of the Global Leaders in Life Sciences program will be well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, industry, government, or non-profit sectors, contributing to innovations in healthcare, environmental sustainability, and biotechnological advancements. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only skilled scientists but also visionary leaders capable of making meaningful contributions to society worldwide. With its strong emphasis on international collaboration, innovation, and leadership, this program prepares students to become influential figures shaping the future of life sciences on a global scale.

Transdisciplinary Life Science Course

• Tissue and Polymer Sciences Laboratory
• Laboratory of Soft & Wet Matter
• Laboratory of Cell Dynamics
• Laboratory of Advanced Chemical Biology
• Laboratory of Protein Science
• Laboratory of X-ray Structural Biology
• Laboratory of Smart Molecule
• Laboratory of Biological Information Analysis Science
• Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology
• Innate Immunity Laboratory
• Laboratory of Embryonic and Genetic Engineering
• Laboratory of Single-Molecules System Biology
• Laboratory of Molecular Cell Dynamics
• Laboratory of Chemical Biology
• Laboratory of Biomolecular Adaptation Science

Biosystems Science Course 

• Laboratory of Animal Cytogenetics
• Laboratory of Mammarian Genetics
• Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation
• Laboratory of Supramolecular Biophysics
• Laboratory of Molecular Cell Dynamics
• Laboratory of Molecular Interaction
• Laboratory of Plant Biology Ia
• Laboratory of Plant Biology Ib
• Laboratory of Plant Biology II
• Laboratory of Cell Function and Structure IIb
• Laboratory of Cell function and Structure III
• Laboratory of Molecular Biology
• Laboratory of Plant Adaptation Biology I
• Laboratory of Environmental Molecular Bioscience
• Laboratory of Gut Physiology and Nutrition
• Laboratory of Behavioral Neurobiology Ia
• Laboraotry of Behavioral Neurobiology Ib
• Laboratory of Behavioral Neurobiology II
• Laboratory of Behavioral Neurobiology IIIa
• Molecular Neuroethology Laboratory
• Laboratory of Behavioral Neurobiology IIIc
• Laboratory of Neuro-Cybernetics
• Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology Ia
• Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology Ib
• Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology Ic
• Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology IIa
• Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology IIb
• Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology III

In order to obtain entry into the Master’s Course you MUST :

• Consult with a contact professor prior to submitting the application
• Hold a bachelor’s degree

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Global Leaders in Life Sciences program at Hokkaido University offers a comprehensive financing structure designed to support international students throughout their academic journey. Funding opportunities include numerous scholarships, grants, and financial aid options aimed at reducing the financial burden of studying abroad. The university provides a range of merit-based scholarships for outstanding students, which can cover partial or full tuition fees. These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and leadership qualities.

In addition to university-specific scholarships, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government-sponsored scholarships like the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship, which covers tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. Recipients of MEXT scholarships benefit from full financial support, making it one of the most comprehensive funding options available for international students at Hokkaido University. Other external funding opportunities include scholarships from various diplomatic missions, international organizations, and private foundations focused on fostering global scientific collaboration.

Hokkaido University also assists students in securing part-time employment opportunities both on and off campus, which help supplement their income. The university’s efforts include job placement services and guidance on legal requirements for part-time work for international students. These roles typically range from research assistantships to tutoring, providing valuable professional experience alongside financial support.

Furthermore, the university emphasizes securing research grants and fellowships for students involved in advanced scientific research. These grants are often provided by national research agencies or international collaborative projects, fostering innovation and allowing students to focus more on their studies without financial constraints.

Overall, the financing options for the Global Leaders in Life Sciences program are diverse and designed to facilitate access to quality education without excessive financial stress. Hokkaido University’s commitment to internationalization and academic excellence is reflected in its robust support system, aiming to make study abroad feasible and attractive for talented students from around the world.

The Global Leaders in Life Sciences program at Hokkaido University is a comprehensive international graduate degree aimed at cultivating outstanding professionals equipped to address complex challenges in the life sciences sector. This program is designed to foster global perspectives, advanced research skills, and an understanding of innovative technologies in fields related to biology, medicine, and environmental sciences. It offers a multidisciplinary curriculum that integrates aspects of molecular biology, biotechnology, medicine, and environmental science, providing students with a holistic approach to life sciences research and development.

The program emphasizes international collaboration and encourages students to engage actively with researchers from around the world. It features coursework, seminars, and research projects led by leading scientists, offering students hands-on experience and exposure to cutting-edge scientific advancements. Students are also given opportunities to participate in international conferences and workshops, facilitating professional networking and development within the global scientific community.

Admission to the program requires a strong academic background in relevant fields, proficiency in English, and a commitment to research excellence. Through partnerships with industries and academic institutions worldwide, the program prepares graduates to become future leaders in academia, industry, and healthcare sectors. The program also promotes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to integrate knowledge from different scientific disciplines to innovate solutions for real-world problems, such as disease treatment, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.

Hokkaido University’s state-of-the-art research facilities and collaborative research environment support students’ academic pursuits. Graduates of the program are expected to contribute significantly to scientific innovation and to have the ability to lead international projects and research teams. Overall, the Global Leaders in Life Sciences program aims to produce highly qualified scientists with the skills, knowledge, and global perspective necessary to advance the life sciences industry and contribute to society through scientific discovery and application.