Molecular Biotechnology

The Bachelor’s Degree in Molecular Biotechnology at the University of Barcelona offers an comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for innovative careers in the rapidly evolving field of biotechnology. This program combines fundamental principles of biology, chemistry, and engineering with advanced techniques in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and bioinformatics. Throughout the course, students gain a solid understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying biological processes and learn how to manipulate these processes for practical applications in medicine, agriculture, environmental sustainability, and industry.

The curriculum features a mix of theoretical classes, laboratory practicals, and project-based learning, ensuring students develop both conceptual knowledge and hands-on skills. Core subjects include cell biology, molecular genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and systems biology, alongside specialized courses in genetic engineering, bioprocess engineering, and biomedical applications. Students also have the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research projects, internships in biotech companies, and collaborations with research centers, fostering an innovative and entrepreneurial mindset.

The program emphasizes the acquisition of critical skills such as data analysis, laboratory techniques, experimental design, and scientific communication. Graduates will be equipped to work in various sectors, including pharmaceutical and biotech industries, research institutions, healthcare, and environmental institutions. Furthermore, the program prepares students for postgraduate studies and research careers, aligning with the university’s commitment to fostering scientific excellence and technological development.

The University of Barcelona’s Molecular Biotechnology degree strives to produce professionals capable of addressing current and future challenges through science and innovation. With a multidisciplinary perspective and a strong foundation in molecular sciences, students are empowered to contribute to advancements in health, sustainable development, and biotechnological innovation. The program’s prominent faculty, modern laboratories, and strong industry links provide an ideal environment for aspiring molecular biotechnologists to thrive and succeed in their professional journeys.

This master's degree has a total study load of 60 credits. Students must complete the 3 compulsory subjects (15 credits), 5 optional subjects from those shown in the table (25 credits), and the Final Project (20 credits).

Students with no prior training in molecular biology must take a specific bridging subject before the main course begins.

Final project

The Master Thesis Project must be registered at the beginning of the academic year together with others courses of the Master.

At the beginning of the academic year a member of the master's academic staff  will be assigned as a tutor. The tutor will be in charge of the guidance of  the student related to the choice of the main issue and the research group, will ensure compliance with the objectives, will assess the development of the project and authorize its submission.

If the final project is not performed at the University of Barcelona, a mentor from the collaboration organization will be appointed. This mentor will be responsible for ensuring that the student carries out the final project.
The presentation and defence of the Compulsory final project requires a letter of compliance from the director / tutor or mentor that must include an assessment of the skills acquired.

The Compulsory final project will be evaluated by an examination panel. (Tutors cannot be members) 

Regarding to  the written report, the examination panel will regulate the extent and format.  Three sets of the final project report must be given to the coordinator of the master fifteen days before the date set for its defence.

The presentation of the final projecte is public. The oral presentation will take place between July and September.

The final schedule, as well as all other indications for the writing and presentation of the final project will be published in the virtual campus.
These rules are in accordance with the UB regulations regarding the final dissertation.

Requirements

• An official Spanish degree.
• A degree issued by a higher education institution within the European Higher Education Area framework that authorizes the holder to access university master's degree courses in the country of issue.
• A qualification from outside the framework of the European Higher Education Area. In this case, the qualification should be recognized as equivalent to an official Spanish degree. If it is not recognized, the University of Barcelona shall verify that it corresponds to a level of education that is equivalent to official Spanish degrees and that it authorizes the holder to access university master's degree courses in the country of issue. Admission shall not, in any case, imply that prior qualifications have been recognized as equivalent to a Spanish master's degree and does not confer recognition for any purposes other than that of admission to the master's degree course.
• The course is also open to holders of bachelor's degrees or equivalent undergraduate degrees in chemistry, environmental sciences, food science and technology, and agricultural and forestry engineering, once the required bridging courses have been determined. In this case, the Coordination Committee will evaluate the subjects taken, the content of the subjects, and the skills acquired during the degree course. 
  Prospective students should have basic knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, genetic engineering, immunology and microbiology. Students who have insufficient previous training must take these subjects as bridging courses, which will be taught intensively in September, before the start of the main master's degree course.
• Academic record for previous studies
• Statement of interest 
• Curriculum vitae
• Students who are interested in taking the specialization in international economic law must have at least a B2 level of English, as this specialization is taught entirely in English.

Scholarships

• General grant
• Mobility grant – Erasmus
• UB collaboration grant
• Departmental collaboration grant (MECD)
• MAEC-AECID grants
• Financial aid for participation in international mobility programs
• UB grants for exchanges with foreign universities
• UB grants for Els Juliols summer courses
• Drac Program grants
• Ajuts de matrícula per als estudiants amb circumstàncies personals sobrevingudes

The Bachelor’s Degree in Molecular Biotechnology at the University of Barcelona offers students comprehensive training in the fundamental and applied aspects of molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and bioinformatics. This program is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for a career in research, development, and industrial applications of biotechnology. Throughout the course, students engage in laboratory work, research projects, and internships that provide hands-on experience in cutting-edge techniques used in molecular cloning, recombinant DNA technology, genomics, proteomics, and systems biology.

The curriculum integrates core scientific disciplines with specialized courses focused on the development and application of biotechnological tools. Students learn to analyze biological data, interpret experimental results, and apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems in health, agriculture, and the environment. The program emphasizes the importance of ethics and safety in biotechnology practices, fostering responsible research conduct and innovation.

Students have access to advanced laboratory facilities and collaborate with research groups and industry partners, enhancing their scientific and professional development. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, blending biology, chemistry, engineering, and informatics to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. During their studies, students are encouraged to participate in seminars, conferences, and research competitions, which broaden their understanding of current trends and future challenges in molecular biotechnology.

Graduates of this program are prepared for various career paths, including research and development in biotech companies, pharmaceutical industries, agriculture sectors, environmental agencies, and academia. They may also pursue postgraduate studies or specialized training in areas such as molecular medicine, bioinformatics, or industrial biotechnology. The degree aims to produce highly skilled professionals capable of contributing to advancements in health sciences, sustainable development, and biotechnological innovations, addressing pressing global issues through scientific research and applied techniques.