In the Master's Programme in Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, you get an understanding of the global significance of microbes as processors of life and the environment. You gain the potential and the tools for the development of new innovations in food or drug industry or in other biotechnological applications.

You learn about microbes and the biotechnological applications as well as what research techniques are used to study viruses, bacteria and other microbes.

Your studies include topics like the application of microbiological knowledge, biotechnology and bioinformatics, functional principles of microbial cells and communities, research methods in microbiology and solving microbiological problems. You can modify the master’s degree programme for your own interests with elective subjects.

Why Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology?

Upon completing your degree, you will:

• Understand the global significance of microbes as remodelers and processors of life and the environment
• Understand the most important functions and molecular mechanisms of the major groups of microbes
• Understand the potential use of microbes in biotechnological applications, such as foodstuffs, drugs, and industrial processes
• Be able to evaluate the effects of changes in the environment on microbial communities and thus on the function of the biosphere
• Be able to assess the use of microbes in a variety of environments and situations
• Be able to evaluate ethical questions and the prerequisites of commercialisation related to the use of microbes and biotechnology
• Be aware of the most important pathogens and their virulence mechanisms
• Master the most important microbiological and biotechnological research methods, and be proficient in the interpretation and evaluation of research results
• Have the capability to plan and lead activities  in microbiology and biotechnology
• Be able to disseminate relevant information about your topic in an international environment

As a graduate, you will be well prepared to continue further with postgraduate studies or proceed directly into working life. You can work in sectors like research and development, Surveillance/monitoring in healthcare, food and environment, administration and consultancy, business and management or teaching and education. Statistically, the situation for microbiologists proceeding to employment has been very favourable.

Courses and teaching:

There is intensive interaction between teachers and students in the Master’s Programme in Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology. A variety of learning methods are used in the courses, including:

• Laboratory work, seminars, lectures
• Oral presentations
• Written reports (individual, paired, group)
• Independent reading
• Work practice, instruction in research groups, project courses
• Oral group exams, written exams, home essays

The language of instruction is mainly English. You can write exams and your thesis in Finnish, Swedish or English.