Infection Biology & Immunology

During their studies for the Master’s degree programme, students will consolidate their knowledge of biomedical laboratory methods used in infection biology, immunology, modern OMICs technologies as well as the theory and practice of clinical research. To this end, students first attend core modules that convey the fundamental principles of infection biology and immunology, basic knowledge of OMICs technologies, data science as well as key competences. Based on the core modules, students can make an individual selection of compulsory elective advanced modules. The range of advanced modules should provide an appropriate scope of content to enable students to specialise in the various subject disciplines of infection biology and immunology linked to biomedical or clinical practice and realise their own interests. By attending these courses, students acquire methodological knowledge and competences and can transfer principles of infection biology, immunology and biomedicine to specific problems. The research practical introduces students to current research topics in preparation for independent scientific work and, during the work placement, students gain insights into possible areas of future work and job profiles. The Master’s programme in "Infection Biology and Immunology" is completed by passing the Master’s dissertation module. The Master's degree programme in "Infection Biology and Immunology" aims to educate graduates within the framework of a four-semester advanced degree course so that they can independently identify and structure questions in research and/or practice and answer them by selecting and applying suitable scientific methods. These goals are achieved with an educational programme directly related to research that also has significant practical components. Core modules on interdisciplinary topics should also enable graduates from other degree courses to gain an introduction to the topic and obtain knowledge about the principles of infection biology and immunology as well as OMICs technologies and data science. Key competences such as bioethics and laboratory animal science complement the basic knowledge taught. By combining various advanced modules that can be chosen freely, students can specialise in one of the named fields. During their studies, students receive broad methodological education that includes advanced biomedical laboratory methods in infection biology, immunology and modern OMICs technology as well as clinical research. In addition to the ability to implement the expert knowledge obtained as required by the specific problem, during their course students learn to reflect critically and analytically on complex matters. Based on the offered compulsory elective advanced modules with extensive research-oriented laboratory practicals, students are required to obtain an appropriate breadth of knowledge but are also able to specialise according to their individual strengths and interests. In doing so, the students acquire methodological knowledge and competences and can transfer principles of infection biology, immunology and biomedicine to specific problems. The research orientation and emphasis on independence in the education programme prepares students for work in scientific fields. The course aims to enable students to take on positions of responsibility in universities, research institutes, public authorities, and industry and commerce (e.g. pharmaceutical sector, clinical laboratories, medical technology). Students who complete the degree are also eligible to be accepted for a doctorate programme.