04 November 2020

Linköping University will open its Protein Science master’s programme to international students starting next year. The programme combines theoretical and practical components, with a heavy emphasis on laboratory work.

Pipette in chemistrylab.
Photographer: Anna Nilsen

“We have a large instrument park with much advanced equipment, where the students can gain valuable experience during the programme – something that few other universities in the world can offer. This means that it is great to be able to offer a master’s programme in protein science also to international students”, says Karin Enander, senior lecturer and chair of the Board of Studies for Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology.

Previously, only students who spoke Swedish could apply for the programme. But the contents are now being completely adapted for international students. And at the same time, more practical components are being introduced to prepare students for life after their degree.

“The programme is an excellent preparation for research education, if students want to take this pathway. But it’s also possible to work with, for example, laboratory analysis or new test methods for diseases. Another career path is the pharmaceuticals industry, which is focussing to an increasing degree on biologically based drugs, where protein science plays a decisive role”, says Karin Enander.

Education in a leading research environment

The educational environment within protein science offers teachers who are active in research and who have international experience, together with experts with a background in the pharmaceuticals industry.

The courses deal with both complex proteins and their functions, and includes discussion of their stability, binding capacity and catalysis. The main focus is on the interaction between proteins and other molecules, which forms the basis of all living processes.

“Studying proteins allows us to discover the molecular causes of disease and how we can treat them”, says Karin Enander.

The international master’s programme in protein science will start in the autumn of 2021. Applications are now being accepted.

Translated by: George Farrants

About the programme and how to apply

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