Master of Bioinformatics (Leuven)

Master of Bioinformatics (Leuven)

Molecular biology is in the midst of a technological revolution. 60 years ago, scientists elucidated the structure of DNA. 15 years ago, they successfully sequenced the human genome after a massive international effort. Today, we can sequence a human genome for €1,000 – and generate terabytes of data in the process. The impact on most areas of biology, ecology, biotechnology, genetics, pharmacy, or medicine is staggering.

What is the Master of Bioinformatics all about?

Bioinformaticians are distinguished by their ability to formulate biologically relevant questions, design and implement the appropriate solution by managing and analysing high-throughput molecular biological and sequence data, and interpret the obtained results.

Programme

This interdisciplinary two-year programme focuses on acquiring

• basic background knowledge in diverse disciplines belonging to the field of bioinformatics, including statistics, molecular biology and computer science
• expert knowledge in the field of bioinformatics
• programming skills
• engineering skills

The 120-credit programme consists of a reorientation package (one semester), a common package (two semesters) and a thesis.

The Master of Bioinformatics is embedded in a strong bioinformatics research community in KU Leuven, who monthly meet at the Bioinformatics Interest Group. Bioinformatics research groups are spread over the Arenberg and Gasthuisberg campus and are located in the research departments of Microbial and Molecular Systems (M2S), Electrical Engineering (ESAT), Human Genetics, Microbiology and Immunology (REGA), Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Chemistry and Biology. Several of these bioinformatics research groups are also associated with the Flemish Institute for Biotechnology (VIB).

International 

Are you looking to broaden your horizons? There are ample opportunities to conduct part of your master's thesis research at various partner institutions abroad. In addition, European residents can undertake their master's thesis research at a European or other partner university within the framework of the Erasmus+ programme. The Faculty also welcomes initiatives of students who want to do a work placement in a company or organization abroad, as well as exchange programmes with partner universities.

More information can be found on the programme page.