Master's Programme in Genetic and Molecular Plant Science

The programme will give you an intimate knowledge of plant biology and plant research. If you are interested in environmental protection, green biotechnology, novel systems for sustainable agriculture or want to learn about the opportunities and risks of gene-modified organisms (GMOs) this is the subject for you.

• Programme overview

  The programme brings together three world class Swedish universities, Stockholm University, Uppsala University and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). You will learn about the mechanisms of plant growth and development, gain an understanding of genetic diversity and plant breeding and find out about plant microbe interactions and how plants interact with their surroundings, including their defence strategies against insects and microorganisms. There is space left within the programme to allow you to choose from a selection of additional elective or optional courses.

  Year 1

  Compulsory courses

  Genetic and Molecular Plant Science (Uppsala)

  Genetic Diversity and Plant Breeding (SLU)

  Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions (Stockholm)

  Elective courses

  Plant diversity and evolution - a global perspective

  Plants in Environmental Treatment

  Year 2

  Compulsory course

  Degree project in Genetic and Molecular Plants Science
  (instructions apply for all degree projects at the department)

  Elective courses

  Green Biotechnology

  Science in Biological Research and Investigation

  Traineeship in Biology

  Independent project

  Master’s degree projects are carried out within ongoing research projects at the Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences. It is also possible to conduct the degree project externally, at a research institute, organisation or company.

  Recent degree projects

  • LACCASE Isoforms have Cell Type Specific, Non-Redundant Roles in the Secondary Cell Wall Lignification in Arabidopsis thaliana
  • Role of steroid glycoalkaloids in the physiology of Phytophtora infestans
  • Accumulation and Speciation of Inorganic Arsenic in Lactuca sativa

• How to apply

  The Master's programme in Genetic and Molecular Plant Science is only open for application in the first round, with deadline for applications in mid-January.

  The Genetic and Molecular Plant Science programme requires a solid background in Biology, including a basic understanding in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Plant Physiology. Specifically we expect the equivalent of a Bachelor in Biology, of which Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Plant Physiology should make up at least one semester.

  Selection process

  Additional eligibility criteria

  Applicants that meet the eligibility requirements are ranked based on their merit rating. Only students with the highest merit ratings are selected for our programmes. The merit rating is based on the following four selection criteria, with equal weight:

  • relevance of previous studies in relation to the programme
  • grades of academic courses
  • motivation letter
  • research ideas

  Required supporting documentation

  To submit your motivation letter and research ideas you must use our cover letter form.

  Cover letter/Motivation letter
  The form is only available when applications are open.

  Recommendation letters and CVs are neither required, nor concidered if included.

  Read our step-by-step guide on how to apply

• Career opportunities

  Our MSc programme serves as preparation for continuation to PhD studies within the fields of plant biology, ecology and plant breeding and biotechnology. It also opens up potential job possibilities at an administrative authority or within forestry, agricultural organisations, consultancy, or plant breeding and conservation. The flexibility of the programme gives you the possibility to develop skills relevant to the job market and potential to develop your network both within Sweden and internationally.

• Contact
  Department of Biology Education

  Student office

  • info.big@su.se
  • 08-16 40 69
  • 08-16 48 25

  • Visiting address

  • E315, Arrheniuslaboratory

  • Svante Arrhenius väg 20C

  • Irregular office hours

  • Closed April 6-9. During these days please call or e-mail.

  Department of Biology Education

  Study counsellor at master's level

  • Ann-Christin Lindås
  • ann.christin.lindas@su.se
  • 08-16 19 98

  • Visiting address

  • E315c, Arrheniuslaboratory

  • Svante Arrhenius väg 20 C

  • Office hours

  • By request