COURSE CURRICULUM

The Research in Bio-Pharmaceutical Sciences specialisation offers a structured yet flexible curriculum designed to provide in-depth training in drug discovery and development. The program begins with the Introduction Course Bio-Pharmaceutical Sciences (6 EC), which prepares students for their first major research project by providing foundational knowledge and methodological skills. Research Project 1 (47 EC) is a nine-month hands-on research experience conducted within one of the research divisions of the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), allowing students to engage directly with state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge scientific investigations.Research Project 2 (35 EC) provides a six-month opportunity to conduct research either at an academic institute or within the pharmaceutical industry, enabling students to gain practical experience in diverse scientific and professional environments. A Literature Study plus Thesis module (7 EC) spans five consecutive weeks and allows students to deepen their understanding of key topics while preparing their final thesis. Lecture Series 1 in Bio-Pharmaceutical Sciences (4 EC) enables students to select from specialised lecture series offered in the master’s program, broadening their theoretical and practical knowledge. Additionally, the Advanced Academic Skills and Career Orientation course (3 EC) equips students with essential skills in scientific writing, presenting research, and planning career paths. Optional courses or traineeships (18 EC) provide further flexibility, allowing students to tailor their program according to personal research interests or professional aspirations.The educational methods emphasise learning through research, combining laboratory and computational work with literature study, presentations, lectures, tutorials, working groups, and individual study. A process learning approach ensures that students develop strong academic writing and presentation skills while mastering the scientific methods needed to conduct independent research.Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in academia, the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, and regulatory agencies. The curriculum’s combination of rigorous research training, practical experience, and interdisciplinary knowledge equips students to contribute to innovative drug discovery, development, and translational research at the forefront of bio-pharmaceutical sciences.