Master´s degree program in Biochemistry

The Master program in Biochemistry is built around areas where research at the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics (DBB) is especially prominent, in some cases internationally leading. Proteins as the central players in the cell, their structure and the folding process, their targeting and turnover, the relation between structure and function, are all topics that are treated within a number of the courses. Biological membranes with respect to structure and dynamics is a second area of excellence that also is included in the program.

The understanding of proteins and their roles in a living cell is fundamental to any profession related to life science, e. g. the drug industry. Today more than 50% of all drugs have membrane proteins as targets. Furthermore it is becoming evident that misfolding of proteins is a common molecular characteristic of many severe diseases, e.g. ALS and Alzheimer.

The program consists of one semester of obligatory courses including a course in advanced biochemical methods, one of elective courses from a specified list  (available at DBB) and at least one semester Degree Project. The elective courses are given by DBB but also by other departments at Stockholm University. In addition there is one semester of free choice courses, but this time can be used to do a longer Degree Project, up to one year total. The Degree Project means that the student specializes within Biochemistry. During this work the student is trained in the scientific method, experimental planning and doing independent research, which should be the hallmarks of a Master Degree. Such training in combination with ample oppurtunity to practice  and develope oral and written communication, should be an excellent base for a successful professional career, be it in industry, academia or other activities in the society.

The Master´s degree program in Biochemistry is aimed at students from Sweden and abroad with a bachelor degree in chemistry. Students with other backgrounds can also be admitted (more information). All courses will be given in English.

The master´s degree program is organized by the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics. 

Why study biochemistry at Stockholm University?

As the capital of Sweden, Stockholm is a major center of research in Europe with three universities Stockholm University, the Royal Institute of Technologyand Karolinska Institutet. The Department has several world-leading scientists, who also participate in the teaching at all levels, including the masters programme.

Stockholm is the city where the Nobel prizes in Physics, Chemistry and Physiology or Medicine are awarded. The decisions about the former two are taken by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences within walking distance from Stockholm University, where the laureates give their Nobel lectures in the Aula Magna. Thus once a year, Stockholm is captured by the excitement of outstanding science.

In summary, the Master´s program in Biochemistry at Stockholm University offers a unique possibility to study in an exciting scientific environment with a large number of world-class researchers.