COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc in Life Science and Technology (LST) at Leiden University combines a strong molecular and biochemical foundation with extensive research training, giving students the tools to address complex biomedical and biotechnological challenges. The program is built around a set of core courses, research training projects, and specialisation-specific components, ensuring both breadth and depth in learning. Students are required to take four core courses, one from each of the Biomedical, Molecular, and Biophysical Sciences series, and a fourth chosen from any of the three. The Biomedical Sciences series includes courses such as Advanced Gene Regulation, Immunotherapy and Technology, and In-vivo Biomolecular Interactions underlying Diseases. In Biophysical Sciences, options include Bionanotechnology, Supramolecular Biomaterials, and Enzyme Dynamics. Molecular Sciences offers Chemical Biology, Metals and Life, and Biosynthetic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry.Central to the program is the research training project, where students spend at least five months as part of a research group, developing into independent researchers through planning, data analysis, reporting, and teamwork. Depending on the chosen specialisation, research projects range from 30 to 60 EC, with options for additional minor projects at other institutions or companies, either in the Netherlands or abroad. Students also benefit from opportunities to conduct pre-clinical research at leading institutes such as the Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), the Dutch Cancer Institute (NKI), and Erasmus Medical Center (ErasmusMC). Alongside research, mandatory academic development courses, such as Academic Writing, and up to 24 EC of electives, provide further flexibility. Electives may extend research projects or include courses offered by Leiden or other universities.The program offers four specialisations. Life Science Research and Development emphasises advanced research training. Life Science and Education, organised by the Graduate School of Teaching (ICLON), prepares students for teaching careers with up to 60 EC in education. Life Science and Science Communication and Society focuses on science communication, including internships in areas like journalism, museology, or health communication. Life Science and Business Studies, offered by the Science Based Business department, trains students in managerial and business skills for careers in industry or technology ventures. This flexible structure ensures that graduates are well-prepared for academic, professional, or industrial careers at the cutting edge of life sciences.