Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology

Throughout the Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology MSc program from the University of Helsinki you'll find answers to these and many other important questions. You learn about the global significance of microbes as processors of life and the environment. You will gain the potential and the tools for the development of new innovations in food or drug industry or in other biotechnological applications.

How to avoid microbial spoilage of foods? How is knowledge of microbiology applied in medicine and industry, or in food production? What research techniques are used to study viruses, bacteria and other microbes?

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

Career opportunities:

As a master of science graduating from the master’s program in Microbiology and microbial biotechnology you will be well prepared to:

• continue your studies toward a doctoral degree
• specialise as a hospital microbiologist
• proceed directly to a career in working life

Statistically, the situation for microbiologists proceeding to employment has been very favourable. As a microbiology graduate, you can work in the following sectors:

• Research and development (universities, research institutes, companies)

• Surveillance/monitoring in healthcare, food and environment (food industry, drug and diagnostics industry, regulatory authority)

• Administration, professional roles and consultancy (companies, ministries, supervision offices, EU)

• Business and management (companies, ministries, supervisory offices, EU)

• Teaching and education (universities, universities of applied sciences, vocational schools, high schools, comprehensive schools, organisations)

Courses include:

• 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