Molecular Cell Biology University of Bonn

Courses are held in English (100%).

All biological processes have molecular foundations that we need to understand in order to understand life itself and to understand the causes of many diseases. Organisms represent the highest form of organisation and are highly complex living systems. They are capable of growing, metabolising nutrients, and usually reproducing. They can be investigated from the molecular level over the cellular level up to a whole organ.

The aim of the Molecular Cell Biology programme is to provide deep insights into these processes. The students get an overview of a wide range of modern cell biological, biochemical, genetic and computer-aided methods and are thus able to answer fundamental questions of biology and medical research.

The settlement of the Master's programme in three faculties (the mathematics and natural sciences, the medical and the agricultural faculty) opens up a unique spectrum of thematic orientations and possible elective modules. It is an explicit wish and aim of the Master's programme to enable graduates to start a PhD study programme directly afterwards.

Possible professional fields:

Basic research in all areas of life sciences as well as in (bio)medical research (institutes of the Max Planck Institute and large research institutions, etc.), executive activity in the pharmaceutical industry, science (teaching/research at universities, research institutions, etc.)

The winter semester begins in October.

1 February until 31 March 2026

In the first semester, basic biochemistry, molecular genetics, developmental biology and physiology, molecular cell biology, biophysics and statistics are studied in depth. The practical component involves mandatory basic courses conducted in laboratories at the University of Bonn to enhance practical laboratory skills.

In the second semester, students work on small scientific projects in one of our research laboratories at the Faculty of Biology, Medicine or Agriculture. In addition, soft skills such as scientific writing and presentation skills are taught. Through participation in the Journal Club and the Teachers' Seminar, students gain insights into the latest research projects.

The third semester, oriented towards practical experience, consists of two lab rotations and a project exchange, enabling students to pursue internships outside the university. Furthermore, students practice presentation skills by delivering their own project presentations during student presentations. In the final semester, students can dedicate their full attention to the Master's thesis.

No tuition fees

The University of Bonn is a public university, meaning that it does not charge tuition fees. However, all students must pay the so-called social contribution (= semester fee) of about 330 EUR per semester. It includes among other things a student transit pass for public transport and a statutory accident insurance.

• University degree (German or non-German) in a relevant discipline
• Minimum grade of 2.7 or local equivalent
• Practical knowledge in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology and cell biology at the level of the Bachelor of Biology with 5 ECTS each (total 20 ECTS) or an equivalent form of proof

English language proficiency (CEFR level B2)

1 February until 31 March 2026

No

Students of the University of Bonn can apply for a room in a dormitory of the Studierendenwerk Bonn (further information: https://www.studierendenwerk-bonn.de/en/accommodation/). 

For further information on housing in Bonn, please visit our website: www.uni-bonn.de/en/university/university-life/living-in-bonn.

The University of Bonn has a central Career Service, which provides advice and support about choosing a career and applying for jobs. Moreover, international students can join the iStart career programme, which teaches participants tangible knowledge and valuable skills that will enable them to write successful applications for jobs in Germany. The programme is geared toward giving students a successful career path both during and after their studies, thus making it easier for them to enter the job market.

The University of Bonn offers a range of different support programmes for international students. The Welcome Days before the start of every semester are an opportunity for new students from abroad to gather information on the most important issues, such as enrolment, registration with the local authorities, and opening a bank account. Getting to know fellow international and German students during recreational activities is another benefit of the Welcome Days.

The Study Buddy programme matches newly arrived international students (mentees) with a University of Bonn student (buddy) who helps them as they start their studies and adjust to life in Bonn. The buddies give tips, advice and assistance that make it easier for their mentees to become familiar with the university and get settled in Bonn.