Molecular Principles of Life

The research-oriented Master of Science program in Molecular Principles of Life is conducted entirely in English and is designed for highly motivated students with a strong interest in understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie life. The program offers cutting-edge education in a modern research environment and brings together a broad range of disciplines and perspectives, from molecular and cellular biology to genomics, genetics, microbiology, computational biology, and plant and animal sciences.

Building on a bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field, the program enables students to deepen their knowledge and develop individual areas of expertise through a diverse selection of specialized modules. Its flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies to their individual interests and to organize their coursework with a high degree of autonomy.

The program provides comprehensive research training and equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to investigate complex biological questions at the molecular level. In addition, it emphasizes the development of essential transferable skills, including teamwork, communication, organizational and mediation skills, as well as intercultural competence.

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are well-prepared to pursue an individual doctoral research project, join one of the Faculty of Biology’s graduate schools, or embark on a career in research and other science-related professional fields.

• Graduate School of Life Sciences Munich (LSM)
• Graduate School of Systemic Neursosciences (GSN)

The standard duration of the Master’s program is four semesters, including the completion of a master’s thesis. The program comprises a total of 120 ECTS credits, with students typically earning approximately 30 credits per semester. The curriculum is organized into a modular system that encompasses thematically related areas of research, integrating lectures, seminars, and practical courses. A key focus is placed on learning within the context of current research projects. Modules can be individually selected and combined based on the student’s academic goals and interests.

First Semester – Foundational Training
The first semester is designed to expand and deepen the foundational knowledge acquired during the student’s undergraduate studies. During the initial two months, students participate in the mandatory courses Molecular Lab Skill in Biology and Applications in Molecular Biology. In addition, students may choose up to two supplementary fields of study to begin their academic specialization.

Second and Third Semesters – Specialization
In the second semester, students have the opportunity to either continue developing their focus areas from the first semester or explore new subjects. Required components include lectures, seminars, hands-on practical courses, and research-based practicals.

Fourth Semester – Master’s Thesis Module
The program concludes with a 24-week research project culminating in the writing and defense of a master’s thesis. This final phase allows students to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent, responsible scientific research. The master’s module also includes supplementary elements such as a research seminar and colloquia, supporting the development of presentation and discussion skills in a scholarly context.

Overview Curriculum (PDF, 37 KB)

master@bio.lmu.de

Coordination:

• Dr. Philomena Bodensteiner
• Katharina Grenzebach

Examination Office

Application Round 2027

The next application round for the Master of Science program in Molecular Principles of Life, starting in the winter semester 2027/28, is expected in February/March/April 2027.

Further information will be announced here.

The admission process consists of various steps. The decision regarding your eligibility is made by the Master’s Admission Committee.

Step 1: Requirements
You are eligible to apply for the Master of Science program in Molecular Principles of Life if you meet all of the following requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree (completed or in progress)
  You have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree comprising at least 180 ECTS points in biology or a related field - such as bioinformatics, (bio)chemistry, (bio)physics, or biotechnology - or you are expected to complete it in the near future.
• English Language Proficiency
  You must provide proof of English proficiency at the C1 level or higher as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), or demonstrate an equivalent level of proficiency.
• dMAT
  If you do not hold a bachelor's degree from a German university, you are required to take the dMAT. Further information about the test can be found in the section "dMAT".
  

Step 2: Online Application
You must meet the application requirements and successfully submit the online application along with all required documents. You must submit your application exclusively through our online portal (see "Current application period").

Step 3: Interview
If you meet the application requirements you will be invited to the interviews. In this final step of the admission process, a decision is made regarding your admission to the program.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree
  You must have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree comprising at least 180 ECTS points in biology or a related field, such as bioinformatics, (bio)chemistry, (bio)physics, or biotechnology. Alternatively, you are expected to complete such a degree in the near future.
• English Language Proficiency
  To be eligible for the master’s program, you must provide proof of English language proficiency at a level equivalent to at least C1 as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), or an equivalent standard.
  Acceptable proof must either explicitly state that your English proficiency is at least at the C1 CEFR level or be verifiable through recognized language assessments. You can find more information here (PDF, 113 KB).
  Proof of your proficiency in German is not required for your application to the master’s program.
• dMAT
  If you do not hold a bachelor's degree from a German university, you are required to take the dMAT. Further information about the test can be found in the section "dMAT".

Documents:

The following documents, in English and in PDF format, are required for your application to the master's program:

• Bachelor’s degree certificate (or equivalent, if already available)

• Transcript of records, which must include the following information:
  • Total grade point average (GPA)
  • Official explanation of your university’s grading system (including the highest possible grade and the minimum passing grade of your bachelor's degree)
  • Official explanation of your university’s credit system (e.g., how many working hours correspond to one credit)
  • If you have not yet completed your bachelor’s degree, you may still apply by submitting a current transcript of records showing all completed coursework to date.
  • Please note: If your university uses a grading or credit system that differs from the German system, we will convert your GPA and credit points accordingly — you do not need to do this yourself.

• Proof of English language proficiency
  Documentation that your English proficiency is equivalent to at least level C1, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), or equivalent

• dMAT certificate (if you do not hold a bachelor's degree from a German university)

• Curriculum vitae (CV)
  Your CV must be limited to a maximum of two pages. It should include:
  • Full name
  • Academic background
  • Work experience
  • Other relevant information

• Motivation essay
  A motivation letter with a maximum length of 600 words, addressing the following:
  • Your reasons for applying to this program, including relevant qualifications such as research and practical (lab) experience
  • Your motivation for studying at LMU (Faculty of Biology)
  • Your interest in specific research areas or research groups

Important:
All required documents must be submitted by the application deadline. According to the admission regulations, late applications or documents submitted after the deadline will not be considered.

Further information will be available here shortly.

This step consists of two interviews conducted via online video call. The interviews are held in English and last approximately 15–20 minutes each. You will be interviewed by two faculty members from the Faculty of Biology. A formal invitation, including the exact dates and times, will be sent to you at least one week in advance.

The interviews will assess various aspects, including your academic background—both theoretical knowledge and practical experience—your ability to engage with biology-related topics and solve scientific problems, as well as your motivation to pursue the Master of Science in Molecular Principles of Life at LMU Munich.

Important Information for International Applicants

If you are not a German citizen and have neither completed your bachelor’s degree in Germany nor obtained your general university entrance qualification (“Abitur”) in Germany or from a German school abroad, you are required to apply also for general admission to LMU Munich through the International Office.

This means that you must submit two separate applications:

One to the Faculty of Biology for acceptance to the master’s program, andOne to the International Office for general admission to LMU.

These are independent processes with different purposes and deadlines.

Further details on how to apply for general admission can be found on the LMU International Office’s website.