The Master of Science in Molecular Plant and Microbial Sciences is being offered since winter term 2023/2024 at the University of Cologne. It is an interdisciplinary study program that focuses on basic research-oriented training using state-of-the-art technologies.

Key Facts

• Degree: Master of Science
• Duration: 4 semesters, full-time
• Language: English
• Start: Winter term (October each year)
• Number of places: 20

This program offers:

• an interdisciplinary MSc program that teaches relevant aspects of basic research in the biology of plants and their interaction with microorganisms
• deep insights into molecular, genetic, developmental, physiological and biochemical mechanisms of plant function at the cellular, organismal and community levels.
• ​​​​​​​focus on both evolutionary and mechanistic aspects of plant interaction with microorganisms as well as with their abiotic environment

The aim of the MSc program is to deepen the students' existing knowledge in plant biology, microbiology and ecology and to prepare them for independent scientific work in the field of molecular and quantitative plant sciences. The processing and transduction of signaling molecules and the role of primary and secondary metabolism in plant development and health, especially in interaction with other organisms, are taught. Our graduates are prepared to collect, analyze, and interpret data. They learn to think critically about scientific issues, evaluate arguments and data and to communicate their findings in oral presentations and written work.

Graduate competencies:

Graduates of the program acquire a knowledge that is highly relevant to science and society, which opens up numerous opportunities for their further professional development. These range from pursuing doctoral studies to directly entering careers in industries such as plant breeding, green biotechnology, and plant protection, as well as in science management, transfer sectors, nature conservation, and scientific public relations and communication. They may breed plants to improve crop yields or develop plants with desired traits, research plants to understand environmental impacts on ecosystems, and even work in education and teaching to train future plant scientists.