Programme outline

The major research project is the most important part of your studies. During this 9 months internship you will be part of a research team, practicing all aspects of research: from designing, planning and conducting experiments, to collecting and interpreting data, drawing conclusions, and writing a report or a scientific publication. 

The major research project is preferably done in one of the MCLS affiliated research groups; the Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, the Institute of Biodynamics and Biocomplexity, the Institute of Biomembranes or the Institute of Environmental Biology.

You perform your research project in a group that fits your chosen track.

As part of your study programme you have to select a profile. There is a choice of 9 different profiles with the aim of focusing your education in a specific direction. These include profiles with a research project component and a flexible curriculum, profiles with a more set course-list and assignments, and profiles that are a mix of the two.

For more information visit the GSLS-page Profiles.

All Graduate School of Life Sciences programmes devote ten weeks to theoretical courses. The Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences programme offers you a range of practical and theoretical courses. To meet the MCLS track criteria you have to obtain at least 9 EC track-specified courses. MCLS offers three general track courses (3 EC each) of which you have to follow at least two.

Check the tracks for a list of courses relevant for your track.

The elective component gives you the possibility to create your personal profile. You can follow education to grow competencies or skills of your own choosing - whether these are more research, academic, or soft skills.

For more information visit the GSLS page Elective component.

You will write a review presenting a literature overview including a discussion/evaluation of hypotheses and a personal view. Alternatively, you write a research proposal using the format of the open programme of NOW-ALW.

For more information visit the GSLS-page Writing assignment.

The Life Sciences Academy (BMB509718, GSLS-ACAD) is a compulsory 3-part module of 1.5 EC in total. This module is a combination of courses, workshops, seminars, and career events designed to cover all aspects of academic education and to acquaint you with a wide range of life sciences-related topics. Moreover, special focus is put on giving a comprehensive overview of the different choices you can make, both in terms of study components and personal development opportunities, but also to prepare you for your upcoming entry into the job market.

For more information visit the GSLS-page Life Sciences Academy.