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Paleobiology and Geosciences● OpenMastersPreview

International Master’s in Geosciences: Paleobiology

A cutting-edge English-taught MSc programme in palaeontology, macroevolution, and quantitative techniques at FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg.

Best for:Best for students with a BSc in Geosciences or related fields who seek rigorous training in palaeontology, macroevolutionary theory, and quantitative research methods.

Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) · Erlangen, Germany
More professors at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU)
palaeontologymacroevolutionbiostratigraphyphylogeneticspalaeoenvironmental reconstructionquantitative palaeobiology
This is a masters position — not a PhD studentship.
Deadline
Register by 15 July 2027
Funding
Unfunded
Tuition fees vary; semester contribution of 82 EUR per semester; 100 EUR processing fee for non-EU applicants.
Start date
Winter semester (typically October)
Full-time
Location
Erlangen
Germany

Overview

The International Master’s in Geosciences: Paleobiology at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) is a four-semester programme designed for students passionate about palaeontology and macroevolutionary research. Students engage in advanced coursework covering analytical palaeobiology, phylogenetics, and biostratigraphy, while also developing quantitative and fieldwork skills through excursions and research projects. The curriculum blends theoretical foundations in macroevolution and ecology with practical training in computational techniques and scientific communication. Graduates earn an MSc in Geosciences with a focus on Paleobiology, equipped with interdisciplinary expertise in climate and Earth systems.

paleobiologymacroevolutiongeosciencespalaeontology researchquantitative methods in biologyfield excursionsMSc GeosciencesErlangen-Nürnberg

What you'll do

  • Develop a deep understanding of macroevolutionary theory, palaeoenvironmental reconstruction, and statistical analysis in palaeobiology.
  • Participate in field excursions to destinations such as Italy, Poland, and Sweden to collect and analyze specimens.
  • Conduct research projects and short-term training courses in computational and laboratory techniques.
  • Develop professional skills in data analysis, research project planning, hypothesis testing, and scientific writing.
  • Present research findings through written reports, oral presentations, and graphical displays.
  • Complete a Master’s thesis in the fourth semester, integrating knowledge from coursework and supplementary modules.

Requirements

Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Geosciences or a related field (e.g., Earth Sciences, Biosciences, Environmental Sciences, Palaeontology).

Degree offered: Master of Science (MSc) in Geosciences (Paleobiology)

Language: English proficiency at B2 level or equivalent (e.g., IELTS Academic 5.5, TOEFL iBT 80, telc English B2).

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Proven academic background in Geosciences or related disciplines.
  • Strong analytical and quantitative skills for palaeobiological research.
  • Ability to conduct fieldwork and collect specimens.
  • Proficiency in scientific writing and oral presentation.
  • Basic knowledge of statistical analysis and computational techniques.
Nice to have
Experience with phylogenetic software or bioinformatics tools.Familiarity with GIS or geographic information systems.Prior involvement in research projects or fieldwork.
Eligibility
  • No German language skills required.
  • Open to applicants from all countries.
  • No age restrictions or residency requirements.

Funding & terms

Type
Unfunded
Amount
Tuition fees vary; semester contribution of 82 EUR per semester; 100 EUR processing fee for non-EU applicants.
Duration
4 semesters (2 years)
Programme
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU)
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU)

Programme and admissions

Admissions not verified

A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.

Intake
Not confirmed by the source
Duration
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Teaching language
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Taught / research mode
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Study mode
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Campus
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Prerequisites
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Application instructions
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Tuition
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How to apply

Deadline: 2024-07-15

Applicants must submit their application through the FAU online portal (Campo). Required documents include a Bachelor’s degree certificate, proof of English proficiency, a CV, a letter of motivation, and academic transcripts. Additional documents may be required based on individual academic backgrounds. Detailed instructions are available on the programme’s website.

Documents required
  • Bachelor’s degree certificate
  • Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, telc)
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Letter of motivation
  • Academic transcripts
  • Passport-sized photograph
↗Check programme and admissions

Contact

Admissions Office, Paleobiology Programme· Admissions Coordinator

https://palaeobiology.nat.fau.de/admission/process/

Lab
Paleobiology Research Group
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU)
Germany
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