Master of Science in Cancer, Stem Cells and Developmental Biology
Explore the intersection of stem cells, cancer biology, and developmental mechanisms through cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary training.
Best for:Best for biology graduates with a strong interest in molecular biology, cancer research, or developmental biology who seek interdisciplinary training and hands-on research experience.
Overview
This two-year Master’s programme at Utrecht University focuses on the biological mechanisms underlying embryonic growth, stem cell function, and disease—particularly cancer. Students engage in hands-on research projects spanning genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics, with opportunities to conduct minor projects abroad. The curriculum blends theoretical coursework across five broad subject areas with seminars covering biomedical and life sciences. Graduates complete a literature-based Master’s thesis, synthesizing critical analysis and independent research to formulate new scientific questions.
What you'll do
- Conduct a major (9 months) and minor (6 months) research project using advanced techniques in genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics.
- Complete 10 weeks of theoretical coursework across five broad subject areas, including oncology, molecular developmental biology, and genetics.
- Attend seminars covering a wide range of biomedical and life sciences topics to broaden research knowledge.
- Write a literature-based Master’s thesis that critically evaluates hypotheses, synthesizes recent research, and proposes new research directions.
- Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration with faculty and peers across various research fields.
- Participate in optional international research projects during the minor phase.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor of Science in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field
Degree offered: Master of Science
Language: English; Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (B1), Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (C1), IELTS overall band 6.5 (with 6.0 in writing), TOEFL internet-based 93, TOEFL computer-based 237, TOEFL paper-based 580
Instruction: English
- Proficiency in molecular biology techniques
- Basic knowledge of genomics and bioinformatics tools
- Ability to conduct independent literature research and critical analysis
- Strong written and oral communication skills in English
- No specific nationality restrictions
- No age restrictions
- No prior experience caps beyond academic background
Funding & terms
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
- Not confirmed by the source
- Teaching language
- Not confirmed by the source
- Taught / research mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Study mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Campus
- Not confirmed by the source
- Prerequisites
- Not confirmed by the source
- Application instructions
- Not confirmed by the source
- Tuition
- Not confirmed by the source
- Funding
- Not confirmed by the source
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit their application through the official Utrecht University portal. Required documents include a CV, a motivation letter, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal or statement of purpose. Additional materials may be requested depending on the application.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/Cambridge Certificate)
- Research proposal or statement of purpose
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.