Master’s Programme Microbiology

Graduates of the Master's programme in Microbiology possess both the knowledge and the practical skills and competencies required to develop and implement methodologically sound solutions to subject-specific questions in microbiology. With the competencies they have acquired, they are also able to contribute to the interdisciplinary advancement of the field of microbiology.

Students engage with topics such as microbial diversity and interactions, signal transduction, metabolic networks, life under extreme conditions, host-microbe interactions, and the use of microorganisms in environmental and biotechnological contexts.
A particular emphasis is placed on the development of research skills in the laboratory, in the field, and in both analytical and bioinformatic applications – with opportunities for individual specialisation, for example in Alpine Environmental Microbiology or Microbial Interactions.

The Master's programme in Microbiology provides advanced academic training based on a relevant Bachelor's degree. Its aim is to offer a solid education in both fundamental scientific principles and practical applications. In addition to acquiring theoretical and methodological expertise, students are primarily expected to develop a scientific way of thinking and working, enabling them to understand and apply complex (micro)biological relationships.

Research and teaching at the Institute of Microbiology focus on archaea, bacteria, fungi, protists, and viruses. In addition to theoretical foundations in evolution, systematics, physiology, molecular biology, and ecology, the programme also covers application-oriented aspects such as biotechnology, plant protection, environmental engineering, soil biology, and medicine.
The training places strong emphasis on hands-on experience in the laboratory, at the computer, in the field, and within industrial practice.
The Master’s programme also serves as preparation for doctoral studies.

• Scientific and managerial roles in private and public companies and institutions (e.g. in the fields of environmental protection, agriculture, forestry, water and waste management, (environmental) biotechnology, food production and quality control, the pharmaceutical industry, medicine, forensics, hygiene, public health organisations, genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, research funding, and public administration), as well as in museums, nature reserves, and non-profit organisations.
• Advisory, expert, and consultancy roles (e.g. in environmental and nature conservation, agriculture, forestry, water and waste management, (environmental) biotechnology, medicine, and hygiene) for private and public organisations.
• Research and teaching positions at universities, universities of applied sciences, and other national and international research institutions.

Additional career paths at the intersection with other disciplines (e.g. geoecology, geography, agricultural sciences, archaeology, medicine, occupational health and safety, allergology, veterinary medicine, building protection, patent law, science communication, and many others), depending on relevant additional qualifications.

Graduates of the Master's programme in Microbiology possess the subject-specific qualifications required for a relevant doctoral programme.

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