Molecular Biology and Evolution (MAMBE)

The Master’s program in Molecular Biology and Evolution (MAMBE) at Kiel University offers students an in-depth education in the fundamental mechanisms that drive biological diversity and the evolution of life. This interdisciplinary program combines advanced coursework and research opportunities in molecular biology, genetics, evolutionary biology, bioinformatics, and systems biology. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of molecular processes such as gene regulation, mutational events, and genome evolution, as well as the evolutionary forces shaping populations and species over time. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical skills, including laboratory techniques, data analysis, and computational methods essential for modern biological research.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research projects in collaboration with faculty members who are leading experts in their fields. The program prepares graduates for diverse career paths, including academic research, biotechnology industries, conservation biology, and health sciences. The international environment of Kiel University fosters a vibrant and collaborative learning atmosphere, encouraging students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific communication skills. The MAMBE program also benefits from state-of-the-art laboratories and research centers, providing students with hands-on experience in molecular and evolutionary research techniques.

Graduates of the program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to scientific advancements in understanding the genetic basis of evolution, biodiversity, and health-related issues. The program emphasizes an integrative approach, combining molecular biology, evolution, and computational analysis to address complex biological questions. Overall, the Master's in Molecular Biology and Evolution at Kiel University offers a rigorous and inspiring academic environment for students passionate about unraveling the molecular mechanisms that have shaped life on Earth over millions of years.

Course objectives

MAMBE graduates will be very well prepared for a doctorate in an interdisciplinary biological research field and, as such, are also highly attractive for industry, small companies or governmental offices that are active in one of the following fields: research and development of new products, possibly using evolutionary principles for product improvement, biology, medicine, or related fields (e.g., pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, medicine) and also agriculture (animal and plant breeding); the service sector (e.g., development of diagnostics, implementation of clinical studies, large scale screening); or the governmental sector (as biologists in public authorities, research institutes, or universities).

Language requirements

Document confirming your proficiency in English, such as:

• confirmation of eight years of English in secondary school ("Sekundarstufe I & II" for German applicants) OR
• confirmation of a school or university stay of at least six months in an English-speaking country OR
• one of the following English tests: TOEFL ITP (paper-based): 580 points, TOEFL iBT (Internet-based): 90 points, IELTS 6.5 (no part less than 6.0), Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English, or an equivalent test

Academic requirements

• Bachelor's degree (Bachelor of Science) in biology or related subject (the final grade should be better than 2.5 or among the top 30% marks according to the ECTS grading table, cf. ECTS User's Guide, European Communities 2009). If you have not yet received the final certificate, please include a preliminary certificate with an overview of completed courses, marks, and ECTS.
• letter of motivation (not more than one page) - please explain why you are specifically interested in this particular Master's curriculum and which specific qualifications of relevance for MAMBE you already possess!
• curriculum vitae (concise overview, no more than two pages)

Enrolment fees

An enrolment fee ("Einschreibegebühr") currently amounting to 55 EUR is charged for the first enrolment at Kiel University.
A semester contribution ("Semesterbeitrag") currently amounting to approx. 120 EUR must be paid each semester. This covers free public transport ("Semesterticket"), reduced lunch prices, and other financial benefits for students.
For the latest information, see: www.studium.uni-kiel.de/de/studium-organisieren/studienangelegenheiten/rueckmeldung

Costs of living

Monthly expenses in Kiel (e.g., for housing, food) range between 700-800 EUR, depending on individual needs.

Arrival support

The International Center at Kiel University offers a wide range of services and will support international students with any questions related to a successful arrival in Kiel.
See: http://www.international.uni-kiel.de/en

Services and support for international students

The International Center at Kiel University offers a wide range of services.
See: http://www.international.uni-kiel.de/en

Accommodation

Accommodation in Kiel is available through the office for student affairs ("Studentenwerk Schleswig-Holstein") or on the private market. Looking for a place to stay in a foreign country is not always easy. The office for student affairs supports students seeking accommodation at reasonable prices and is continually improving the quality and standard of the residence halls.
In general, the chances of obtaining a room in a residence hall can be improved by submitting an application form before 15 June. The rent depends on the location and standard of the particular residence.
Please note that due to high demands for accommodation in Kiel, the office for student affairs can currently only assign rooms in residence halls to first-semester students (Bachelor's/Master's students). PhD students cannot be assigned rooms.

For information and to contact us, see: http://www.studentenwerk.sh