About this programme
With demographic changes leading to a growing elderly population, there is a pressing need to address age-associated diseases. However, many causes and mechanisms of such diseases remain unclear today. As a result, the wide field of research into the ageing process has swiftly emerged to investigate mechanisms, prevention, and treatment of ageing and age-associated diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to educate students in this innovative and fast-growing area. Our Master's programme in Genetics and Biology of Ageing and Regeneration combines theoretical and practical learning through lecture series, method-oriented seminars, and practical research projects. You can learn not only about molecular mechanisms and processes governing the functions of cells and tissues in organisms but also about how their dysfunctions contribute to ageing and age-related diseases. Topics will also include strategies for prevention, clinical intervention, and potential treatment of age-related diseases. You will be taught and supervised by internationally renowned and experienced scientists from the fields of genetics and research into the ageing process. The close collaboration with the CECAD Cluster of Excellence for Ageing Research and the Max-Planck-Institute for Biology of Ageing will offer you an extensive environment with a broad range of interdisciplinary research topics within the field of ageing research. Whether aspiring to pursue further doctoral studies or embark on a career in the life science industry, our Master’s programme will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in your endeavours. The Master's programme is an interdisciplinary study programme that focuses on basic and biomedical research-oriented training using state-of-the-art technologies. Basic modules The programme starts with a mandatory lecture and seminar to provide a detailed overview about genetics and the biological processes underlying ageing and regeneration, paving the way for a deep understanding of biological systems at the molecular level: Principles of Molecular Genetics, Development, and Ageing (Lecture) Modern Techniques and Approaches in Genetics, Ageing, and Development (Seminar) In addition, students can choose two more lectures out of the following: Computational Biology; Ecology, Evolution, and Environment; Molecular Plant and Microbial Sciences; Neuroscience; Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine. Subject modules Continuing, students can choose two advanced courses that not only enhance their theoretical foundation but also incorporate a significant practical component, enabling them to apply their acquired knowledge in practice. Examples of the range of courses include: Post-translational Regulation of Proteins Mitochondria and Neurodegeneration Cell Death in Inflammation, Immunity, and Disease Molecular Mechanisms of Human Diseases Proteostasis in Health and Disease Project modules All students conduct two individual research projects in a lab of their choice. The duration is a minimum of seven weeks each, including six weeks of experimental work, followed by one week for preparing an oral presentation and a written report. Project modules can be undertaken at the University of Cologne, an external institution, or abroad. Master thesis & defence The Master's programme concludes with a written thesis lasting at least six months. These six months include the actual experimental research work as well as the writing of the thesis. After handing in the thesis, students have to defend their theses with an oral presentation in front of examiners. The Master's thesis can also be undertaken at the University of Cologne, an external institution, or abroad.
Course details verified 09 Sep 2026 — intakes, entry requirements and course facts · official source