Molecular Plant Sciences Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg

Discover the fascinating world of plants — from molecular mechanisms to ecosystem dynamics!

The Faculty of Biology at Würzburg University welcomes motivated and qualified graduates with a background in biology (BSc or equivalent) to join its two-year Master’s programme in Molecular Plant Sciences. This programme is designed for globally minded young scientists eager to deepen their understanding of how plants evolve, grow, adapt, and interact with their environment.

As part of the Julius-von-Sachs-Institute within the JMU Biocenter, you will conduct research and learn from internationally recognised researchers in an environment that fosters curiosity, innovation, and collaboration. Through an inspiring combination of lectures, seminars, and extensive laboratory training – all taught in English – you will acquire advanced, research-oriented training in quantitative molecular plant sciences. You will actively engage in ongoing research projects, often with close one-to-one supervision, gaining real-world experience in cutting-edge scientific practice.

The Master’s programme builds on the strengths of highly interactive plant departments at the JvSI and numerous research groups there working at the forefront of plant topics such as Ecophysiology, Physiology, Plant-Microbe Interactions, Signalling Networks, Adaptation and Evolution, Membrane Biology, Structural Biology, and Chemical Biology. This broad spectrum of expertise and the cooperative network within the entire Faculty of Biology ensure an academically rich and intellectually stimulating curriculum.

Depending on your research interests and goals, you can tailor your Master’s programme by selecting two out of six main topics:

• Plant Membrane Biology
• Structural Biology
• Plant Adaptations to a Changing World
• Plant Biotic Interactions
• Plant Chemical Biology and Metabolism
• Plant Signalling Networks

Graduates of this programme have not only expanded their scientific skill set but are also prepared to engage with pressing global challenges in plant science and sustainability.

The website of the Master of Science programme in Molecular Plant Sciences is the best way to find out more about this programme:

https://go.uniwue.de/molplant

Contact: Prof Ulrich Hammes (ulrich.hammes@uni-wuerzburg.de), Prof Nathalie Lackus (nathalie.lackus@uni-wuerzburg.de), Prof Katharina Markmann (katharina.markmann@uni-wuerzburg.de)

During the two-year Master’s programme in Molecular Plant Sciences, students are required to complete a total of 120 ECTS credits. Within the programme, two of the following six topics may be selected: Plant Membrane Biology, Structural Biology, Plant Adaptations to a Changing World, Plant Biotic Interactions, Plant Chemical Biology and Metabolism, and Plant Signalling Networks.

In each selected topic, students complete graded modules summing up to 30 ECTS credits. These comprise two theoretical modules of 10 ECTS credits each and one advanced practical course (F1) worth 10 ECTS credits. Students select one focal topic, in which an additional 15 ECTS credits are obtained via an ungraded Advanced Practical Course 2 (F2). The F2 course lasts twelve weeks and precedes the Master’s thesis (6 months, 25 ECTS) with the final thesis colloquium (5 ECTS).

Throughout their studies, students are actively engaged in ongoing research projects. They acquire the ability to plan and conduct independent theoretical and experimental work, to summarise and critically discuss their findings in the written thesis, and to present and defend their results in a final colloquium.

The credit line “Additional Qualifications” enables students to broaden their scope beyond the focal topic areas by selecting additional modules amounting to 15 ECTS credits. These extra modules, assessed on a pass/fail basis, allow students to pursue individual academic interests.

Coimbra Group universities, CharmEU

Elective practical courses/internships/excursions may be completed at partner universities.

Bachelor of Science in Biology or a similar programme

Biosciences: 75 ECTS credit equivalents
Chemistry (including biochemistry and physical chemistry): 15 ECTS
Physics, mathematics, biostatistics: 15 ECTS

OR

Biosciences: 60 ECTS
Chemistry (including biochemistry and physical chemistry): 20 ECTS
Physics, mathematics, biostatistics: 12 ECTS

OR

Biosciences: 70 ECTS
Chemistry (including biochemistry and physical chemistry): 10 ECTS
Physics, mathematics, biostatistics: 12 ECTS

Proof of experimental laboratory experience, preferably by an experimental thesis comprising a minimum of 10 ECTS

Please submit either your final degree or your transcript of records to certify the minimum requirement of 150 ECTS. You have to submit your completed transcript of records no later than 15 September or 15 March, respectively.

There are generally no tuition fees at the University of Würzburg. However, each semester, students are required to pay a contribution for enrolment or registration. This fee, approximately 180 EUR, not only supports various student services but also includes a semester ticket that grants you unlimited access to public transportation throughout the city of Würzburg.

Living in Würzburg is quite affordable compared to other German cities, making it an attractive option. While individual lifestyles vary, here is an estimate of typical costs:

• Food: 300 EUR
• Rent: 350 to 500 EUR
• Student health insurance: 140 EUR

Würzburg offers a vibrant student life with plenty of affordable options for dining, entertainment, and leisure activities. The University of Würzburg, its student representation and wider network of local partners help you manage your budget effectively, also by offering student discounts.

Finding part-time employment in Würzburg is a great way to gain experience, make new connections, and supplement your finances while studying. Students from EU and EEA countries enjoy equal terms in the labour market and can work freely during their studies. Students from other countries can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, including voluntary internships. If you wish to work more, you'll need permission from the employment agency ("Agentur für Arbeit") or the immigration office.

It's important to ensure that your studies remain your top priority, so choose a side job that complements your academic schedule. The University of Würzburg offers resources to help you find part-time work, such as the student job portal. 

The University of Würzburg is dedicated to helping international students and future professionals thrive. The Career Centre is your gateway to job entry, offering courses to develop transdisciplinary skills and personalised counselling at every stage of your academic journey. The Transfer Team fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, providing guidance on intellectual property, business formation, and industry connections. The Centre for Teaching and Learning is a treasure trove of resources, including the Writing Centre, which offers workshops, one-on-one consultations, and collaborative writing groups to enhance your academic writing skills. The Alumni Service keeps the Würzburg spirit alive with mentoring programmes and networking events.

Finding the perfect place to live is an important part of your student experience at the University of Würzburg. Unlike some other countries, students in Germany need to find their own accommodation, as universities do not automatically provide it. At the University of Würzburg, you have two main options: "Studierendenwerk" housing or private rooms/student halls.

The Student Housing Service ("Studierendenwerk") manages 12 student residences in Würzburg, offering a total of 2,887 rooms. These dormitories provide a variety of amenities:

• Single and double rooms or apartments shared by two to four students, with communal kitchens and bathrooms

• Furnished rooms and apartments are available, though you'll need to bring your own dishes, cooking items, bedding, and towels.

To apply for housing, note the deadlines: 15 June for the winter semester and 15 January for the summer semester. For more information about private rooms and student halls, visit the Central Student Advisory Service.

In addition to Studierendenwerk housing, there are many private accommodation options available:

• Shared apartments ("Wohngemeinschaften" or "WGs"): These are popular among students and offer a great way to meet new people and share living costs.

• Private student halls: These are often run by private companies and offer similar amenities to Studierendenwerk dormitories. They can be a bit more expensive but may offer more modern facilities.

• Short-term accommodation: If you need a place to stay while you search for permanent housing, consider options like hostels, guest houses, or short-term rentals.

Remember to start your housing search early and stay positive! With a bit of patience and diligence, you'll find a cosy place to call home.