Master's Programme in Molecular Ecology, 120 ECTS

The rapid development of molecular biology technology is having an ever-greater effect within ecological research and research into evolutionary biology. Advanced laboratory and statistical methods of analysis are now used to answer important questions concerning ecological and evolutionary interactions, the threat of extinction and genetic effects of human actions in the natural world. Molecular ecology involves the use of molecular biology techniques within fields of ecological research.

The Master’s programme has been designed to give an extensive base of knowledge within this rapidly expanding area. Many different laborative, molecular-based methods are presented, and their use within ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation biology, population genetics, ecological physiology and microbial ecology. A major emphasis is placed on practical work in the laboratory, and on the theoretical background, current issues in the field, applications, and data processing and statistical analysis. All courses include both theoretical and empirical parts. The Master’s programme is a collaboration between Södertörns högskola and Stockholm University, and it can therefore offer particularly high-quality and broad expertise and a close association with research. The programme allows students ample opportunity to create their own profile as desired. The student can, for example, select courses in Molecular Evolution and Bioinformatics, Molecular Systematics, Population and Conservation Genetics, Evolution and Diversity, and Molecular Microbial Ecology. A final degree project with a coupling to molecular ecology is compulsory. The programme provides a good preparation for research education within several fields of research education such as ecology, population genetics and systematics. It is also suitable for students aiming to work with, for example, some form of laboratory work, research administration, scientific information, or teaching.