Integrate basic and clinical immunology training in a research-oriented way

The international Master programme “Integrated Immunology” (iImmune) was jointly initiated by the Department of Biology and the Faculty of Medicine at Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and is generously supported by the Elite Network of Bavaria. A central task of the Master programme is to integrate basic and clinical immunology training in a research-oriented way. FAU has a very strong research focus on immunology research, both in medicine and biology, which is reflected in many collaborative research centres and PhD graduate schools that deal with this topic. The ageing society deals more and more with the implications of infectious diseases, as well as with chronic autoimmune diseases or allergic diseases. This interdisciplinary Master programme ideally prepares for research positions both in basic, as well as in clinical immunology to tackle these types of diseases. The integration of clinical modules allows a bench to bedside approach even to master students with a biology background. Additionally, the programme is also open to medical students.

Aims of the Master Programme

• Provide a comprehensive education in the field of immunology at the interface between biology and medicine.
• Train international students with a very good supervision, including small group teaching and modern teaching concepts such as problem-based learning.
• Provide a research-oriented education, comprising both basic and clinical immunology.

Qucik Facts

Studienart: Master
Standort: Erlangen
Regelstudienzeit: 4 Semester
Studienbeginn: Wintersemester
Sprache: Englisch

Curriculum

During the first semester, the students are trained in the module Basic Immunology (lectures, seminars, tutorials) and in an Integrated laboratory course. There is a lecture and tutorial in Cell and Molecular Biology plus elective softskill courses in topics such as imaging, bio-informatics, computer programming or ethics of science.

The second semester provides the module Translational Immunology (lectures, seminars, tutorials) and an Integrated laboratory course in Translational Immunology. A course in Clinical Immunology includes tutorials and bedside visits.

The third semester includes practical project work with lab rotations both in the labs in Erlangen, as well as an organised 3-month visit to one international immunology lab abroad. A theoretical project is done over the whole semester, resulting in a short written report and a presentation. There are additional modules as participants at spring or autumn schools of immunology or other graduate schools. The fourth semester is spent with the Master thesis.

Application

Qualification requirement

Relevant Bachelor degree with grade 2,5 or better (or equivalent international grade) in Biology, Biochemistry, Life Sciences or a similar Bachelor degree.

Admission test

Applicants will be invited for an oral examination to test the suitability of the applicant for the MSc Integrated Immunology. Duration of the test is 20 Minutes. The topics of this examination will be basic knowledge in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Genetics. Furthermore, knowledge in a specific topic in immunology, virology or microbiology (as chosen by the applicant), will be examined.

The examination will be done by the admittance committee of the MSc programme. The examination date will be announced at least one week in advance. The applicants have to bear the arising expenses by themselves.

Language requirement

The required English level is “Vantage or upper intermediate” level (B2) according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, or an equivalent score in an internationally recognised test, eg. TOEFL iBT 85, IELTS 5.0. Six years of English lessons at a German Gymnasium shall also suffice as proof; applicants whose native language is English need not submit any such proof.

Proof of German proficiency is not required. However, we strongly recommend non-German speaking students to attend German language classes during the MSc studies.

Application documents

• Secondary education certificate
• University degree certificate with transcript of records
• CV
• Proof of English proficiency at level B2 according to the Common European Framework Reference for Languages
• Motivation letter
• Application deadline: 15th of July. For international applicants we strongly recommend to apply until 31st of May.

Online application via Campo (until July 15th)