Molecular and Developmental Stem Cell Biology (iSTEM)

This interdisciplinary Master's degree course is oriented to cutting-edge research and current markets. The course combines traditional basic disciplines such as cell biology, histology, biochemistry and pathology with recent progress in epigenetics, bioinformatics and developmental biology to secure a broad understanding towards innovative translational approaches in medicine.
Stem cells have a major impact on nearly all disciplines of life sciences dealing with eukaryotic cells or organisms. Predictably, a strong demand for young scientists who are able to cope with a highly interdisciplinary approach will arise in the near future. Participants should learn to integrate different types of knowledge such as the chemistry of small molecules, bioinformatics of nucleic acids, protein networks, biochemistry of transcription factors, genetics and epigenetics, systems biology and applied medical sciences from bench to bedside for treating degenerative diseases of the brain, muscle, liver and skin etc. Recently, it has become possible to reprogramme patient-derived cells opening up new perspectives for cell replacement therapy and patient-specific drug development. Defined combinations of transcription factors may even allow trans-differentiation of fibroblasts into neurons. The application of nanoparticles may be useful to enhance penetration of regulatory proteins into cells thus avoiding DNA for reprogramming cells. In general, gaining knowledge in epigenetic mechanisms controlling gene expression is on the priority list of teaching. Inspection of differentiating stem cells with a super-resolution microscope (stimulated emission depletion, STED) will help to advance our knowledge in this rapidly evolving field of molecular stem cell biology. All the above mentioned aspects will be covered both in theory and in hands-on practical courses in an international environment.

Educational organisation

During the first year of the programme, students acquire a fundamental understanding of developmental processes that are linked to the current progress of stem cell research. This theoretical knowledge is further deepened and expanded on by hands-on experience during practical modules. The inclusion of guest lecturers gives students the opportunity to get in contact with programme-associated researchers and learn about prime examples of current topics in stem cell research. This practical knowledge is further expanded by the inclusion of a mandatory bioinformatics course. During the second year, the curriculum switches in part to application-oriented courses that confront students with stem cell based approaches to the treatment of various illnesses as well as future prospects. During the course of the third semester, students also get the opportunity to visit our partner institutions abroad. The fourth semester is reserved for the Master's thesis.
It is also mandatory for the students to successfully complete a language course. Other acquired skills include a basic understanding of bioethics and legal aspects of biomedical work, skills in good medical practice and grant writing skills.
The Master's course comprises a four-semester programme providing a broad base of knowledge of the subjects studied including their methodology and theory. The average workload is calculated at 900 hours of work per semester of study, approx. 30 credit points per semester and a total of 120 credit points.

Study abroad unit(s)

Participants get the opportunity to spend their third semester and beyond at one of our partner institutions abroad, for example the Aarhus University in Denmark, the School of Medicine of Tongji University in Shanghai, or at the Chinese-German Stem Cell Centre of Tongji Medical College in Wuhan. They are also free to go to one of our associated laboratories from the University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr) or the Stem Cell Network North Rhine-Westphalia.

Internships

Due to the practical nature of our programme, practicals and internships are part of almost all of the offered modules, however, students are also encouraged to choose practicals according to their interests. Therefore, we offer a variety of different practicals for students to choose from. During the first semester, students have to choose four two-week introductory practicals out of around 20 practicals offered. During the second semester, students are expected to complete two four-week internships in our associated laboratories and finally to complete the module ''Lab Bench Project and Grant Writing'' that consists of an internship in preparation of the Master's thesis.
Aside from the required internships, students are also encouraged and supported in finding additional opportunities to get practical experience by applying for internships at our large number of associated laboratories.

Forms of assessment

Written exam, written reports, oral exam, presentations, work evaluation, group work, poster presentations, work sheets, written research proposal as part of the module ''Lab Bench Project and Grant Writing''

Course objectives

Alumni of the Master of Molecular and Developmental Stem Cell Biology course have gained detailed up-to-date knowledge of the classification and origin of stem cells, and can master their harvesting, cultivation and scientifically sound application. They have gained a solid knowledge of the molecular processes involved. The graduates have a thorough understanding of the basic principles underlying the pathology of degenerative diseases and of relevant aspects of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. They have the ability to critically pursue new developments and to implement them, according to the principles of good scientific practice. They will have developed a comprehensive understanding and carefully considered approach to bioethical aspects. Furthermore, they know how to handle human and animal materials in a responsible fashion. They have also been trained to work in international, intercultural and interdisciplinary teams. Graduates of the Molecular and Developmental Stem Cell Biology degree course are ideally suited to start their career in the pharmaceutical industry, as well as in scientific institutes. They are equally well qualified to continue with doctoral studies in life sciences or medicine.

Language requirements

Applicants need to provide proof of their proficiency in English, for example your successful completion of one of the standard tests (TOEFL 550 [written], 215 [computer based], 79 [internet based] or IELTS 6.0).
Other qualifications, for example a study programme completed in English before, will be reviewed by a committee.

Academic requirements

Applicants are required to hold a top Bachelor's degree in the life sciences (e.g. BSc in biology, microbiology, biomedicine, molecular biology) or a state examination/Master's degree in a medical subject. The course is thereby ideally suited for graduates of biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology, biomedicine, molecular medicine, human medicine, veterinary medicine, dental medicine and equivalent specialised programmes such as tissue engineering. Proof of good basic mathematical skills is required, as is proof of English language skills (see language requirements).

Enrolment fees

A social fee of approx. 270 EUR has to be paid. The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Costs of living

Minimum of 670 EUR per month to cover personal and living expenses

Arrival support

New students will get personal help during the first few weeks of their stay (e.g. to complete registration, health insurance etc.).
We also organise an orientation event with different speakers giving the students an introduction to the organisation and life at Ruhr University.
We are currently establishing a tandem system where German students are expected to guide their fellow students, and students from advanced semesters are expected to supervise and guide the newly arrived students during the first week of the semester.
Aside from our own efforts, the International Office of Ruhr University also plans and organises a one-week programme that is meant to help students fit into their new environment.

Services and support for international students

The university is currently undertaking efforts to provide all of the important media, printed documents and services of the campus in English.
The university also encourages students to seize the opportunity to participate in a multitude of available language courses, which is also encouraged by the fact that it is mandatory for the students of our Master's programme to take a language course (in either language).
To provide excellent services that are tailored to the needs of our international students, the university founded the International Office to guide and help the international students and researchers that are part of Ruhr University.
To further follow its self-imposed role as an excellent place for international students to study, the university established the promotional programme Master 2.0 in 2010. Participating study programmes like the Master Molecular and Developmental Stem Cell Biology are therefore taught completely in English and the connection to an international scientific network of participating laboratories is stressed.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the AKAFÖ or the private market. The AKAFÖ manages around 4,500 accommodation places in 19 halls of residence with a cost of around 270 EUR/month, depending on size and location of the room.