Molecular Biotechnology and Bioinformatics
Molecular Biotechnology and Bioinformatics
Course sheet
A.Y. 2025/2026
Master programme
LM-8 R - Biotecnologie industriali
The The Master's Degree in Molecular Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (MB&B) is designed to prepare graduates with a robust and diverse cultural foundation in the key disciplines of industrial biotechnology. The program fosters the ability to excel in the inherently interdisciplinary field of modern biotechnology, equipping students to integrate knowledge and skills across various domains effectively. Graduates will be well-positioned to work independently, take on leadership roles in projects and facilities, and contribute to research, development, innovation, management, and quality control in both public and private sectors within the biotechnology industry and services. This program also lays a strong foundation for further academic pursuits, including Ph.D. programs.
The program is delivered in English, providing graduates with a competitive edge in the global job market. It emphasizes critical application of the scientific method to biological systems, offering:
- A comprehensive understanding of the physical, chemical, structural, molecular, and cellular aspects of biological systems.
- Expertise in advanced analytical and bioinformatics methodologies for the analysis and integration of genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics data.
- Skills to design, improve, and implement biotechnological processes, services, and applications with an interdisciplinary approach.
This curriculum integrates core chemical, biological, and technological disciplines relevant to industrial biotechnology.
Related and complementary activities allow students to specialize in areas such as microbial, animal, and plant biotechnology.
In the first year, students will gain a strong theoretical and practical foundation in biotechnology core disciplines. In the first and second years, students can also tailor their learning experience through elective courses as well as develop soft skills and language competencies, aligning with their professional and academic goals.
A significant portion of the second year is dedicated to an experimental thesis leading to a final dissertation. Students will work in cutting-edge research laboratories, either at the university or within national or international public or private facilities. This hands-on experience enables students to apply their knowledge, refine their scientific investigation skills, and master modern analytical and instrumental techniques. The thesis process also enhances their abilities to analyze, process, and present scientific data effectively.
The program is delivered in English, providing graduates with a competitive edge in the global job market. It emphasizes critical application of the scientific method to biological systems, offering:
- A comprehensive understanding of the physical, chemical, structural, molecular, and cellular aspects of biological systems.
- Expertise in advanced analytical and bioinformatics methodologies for the analysis and integration of genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics data.
- Skills to design, improve, and implement biotechnological processes, services, and applications with an interdisciplinary approach.
This curriculum integrates core chemical, biological, and technological disciplines relevant to industrial biotechnology.
Related and complementary activities allow students to specialize in areas such as microbial, animal, and plant biotechnology.
In the first year, students will gain a strong theoretical and practical foundation in biotechnology core disciplines. In the first and second years, students can also tailor their learning experience through elective courses as well as develop soft skills and language competencies, aligning with their professional and academic goals.
A significant portion of the second year is dedicated to an experimental thesis leading to a final dissertation. Students will work in cutting-edge research laboratories, either at the university or within national or international public or private facilities. This hands-on experience enables students to apply their knowledge, refine their scientific investigation skills, and master modern analytical and instrumental techniques. The thesis process also enhances their abilities to analyze, process, and present scientific data effectively.
The Master's degree in Molecular Biotechnology and Bioinformatics opens up diverse career opportunities in both public and private sectors. Graduates are prepared to work in research laboratories, biotechnology industry production facilities, and quality control laboratories, across various fields such as diagnostics, chemicals, and the agro-food industry. They will also be equipped to promote scientific development and technological innovation in R&D environments within the industrial sector.
Graduates will be able to assume high-level responsibilities, managing the ethical, technical, and legal aspects of their work within their areas of expertise. The MB&B program's comprehensive training across a wide range of biotechnological disciplines also serves as a solid foundation for further academic pursuits, such as Ph.D. programs or other advanced degrees.
MB&B graduates can pursue careers in industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food production, environmental biotechnology, and biotechnology services. They will also be qualified to work in genomics and proteomics research laboratories, whether in public or private institutions. Relevant professions include biologist, biochemist, biophysicist, and biotechnologist, among others.
Graduates will be able to assume high-level responsibilities, managing the ethical, technical, and legal aspects of their work within their areas of expertise. The MB&B program's comprehensive training across a wide range of biotechnological disciplines also serves as a solid foundation for further academic pursuits, such as Ph.D. programs or other advanced degrees.
MB&B graduates can pursue careers in industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food production, environmental biotechnology, and biotechnology services. They will also be qualified to work in genomics and proteomics research laboratories, whether in public or private institutions. Relevant professions include biologist, biochemist, biophysicist, and biotechnologist, among others.
The MB&B programme supports the international mobility of the University programme: MB&B lecturers (for the academic year 2025/2026, Prof. Veronica Gregis) act as tutors for students interested in the Erasmus+ programme, guiding them in choosing the most appropriate programme for their education. Every year in January, the Erasmus+ programme is presented to the MB&B students at a local event organized by the Erasmus+ coordinator of the Industrial Biotechnology Department (Prof. Veronica Gregis). Under the Erasmus+ programme, the MB&B MSc has agreements with universities in Germany, Spain, France, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands, all offering courses in English. Calls for participation in the Erasmus+ study programme can be found at the following link: https://www.unimi.it/en/international/study-abroad/studying-abroad-erasmus.
The time spent abroad can be used to attend courses and take the relevant exams, thus earning credits towards the Master's degree, and to carry out the experimental project of the dissertation. Students admitted to the mobility programme must submit a study plan detailing the training activities they intend to undertake and the corresponding credits. The number of credits should, as far as possible, correspond to the number of credits that the student should acquire in a similar period at the home university. The proposed activities must be consistent with the objectives and content of the Master's programme.
The MB&B Student Mobility Committee must approve the study plan and/or request changes or additions. The MB&B Student Mobility Committee must approve the study plan and/or request changes or additions. At the end of the mobility programme, according to the guidelines of the University of Milan, the courses attended by the student (with a passed exam) will be recorded in his/her transcript, preferably with the original name and with the ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) and its conversion into CFU (usually 1 ECTS = 1 CFU). Students wishing to complete their dissertation abroad must have an internal supervisor (chosen from among the MB&B faculty) and the study plan must be approved by the MB&B Board.
The time spent abroad can be used to attend courses and take the relevant exams, thus earning credits towards the Master's degree, and to carry out the experimental project of the dissertation. Students admitted to the mobility programme must submit a study plan detailing the training activities they intend to undertake and the corresponding credits. The number of credits should, as far as possible, correspond to the number of credits that the student should acquire in a similar period at the home university. The proposed activities must be consistent with the objectives and content of the Master's programme.
The MB&B Student Mobility Committee must approve the study plan and/or request changes or additions. The MB&B Student Mobility Committee must approve the study plan and/or request changes or additions. At the end of the mobility programme, according to the guidelines of the University of Milan, the courses attended by the student (with a passed exam) will be recorded in his/her transcript, preferably with the original name and with the ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) and its conversion into CFU (usually 1 ECTS = 1 CFU). Students wishing to complete their dissertation abroad must have an internal supervisor (chosen from among the MB&B faculty) and the study plan must be approved by the MB&B Board.
Attendance at lectures is strongly recommended. The experimental project leading to the final dissertation is compulsory for the Master's degree.
Enrolment
Students with an Italian university degree:
The MB&B Master's degree is open to graduates of the Laurea Triennale of the L-2 class (Biotechnology) and the previous class 1 (Biotechnology). It is also open to students with a Laurea Triennale with a strong background (at least 60 University Credits (CFU)) in biotechnology-related subjects, including at least 36 CFU in biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics and microbiology; at least 10 CFU in mathematics, physics, computer science and statistics; at least 10 CFU in chemistry.
Students with a degree from a non-Italian institution:
Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college at the time of application and have a good knowledge in all the following areas: biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics and microbiology. Sufficient knowledge in the disciplines of mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer science, and statistics is also required. A commission, appointed by the Academic Board, is responsible for collegially analyzing the curriculum studiorum of applicants to verify that the minimum requirements for admission are met. If deemed necessary, the commission may integrate this documentary assessment with other forms of assessment, including interviews. The master's degree does not have a programmed number of students, with a maximum of 25 places reserved for non-EU students residing outside Italy.
In addition to the above curricular requirements, English language proficiency equivalent to or higher than level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required.
Proficiency in English at a B2 level or higher per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required for admission.
The B2-level requirement will be ascertained by the University Language Centre (SLAM) upon admission as follows:
- Language certificate of B2 or higher level issued no more than three years before the date of admission application. You will find the list of language certificates recognized by the University at: https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39322. The certificate must be uploaded when submitting the online application;
- English level achieved during a University of Milan degree programme and certified by the University Language Centre (SLAM) no more than four years before the date of admission application, including levels based on language certificates submitted by the applicant during their Bachelor's degree at the University of Milan. In this case the process is automatic, the applicant does not have to attach any certificates to the application;
- Entry test administrated by the University Language Centre (SLAM) according to the calendar published on the website: (https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39267/)
All those who fail to submit a valid certificate or do not meet the required proficiency level will be instructed during the admission procedure to take the Entry test.
Applicants who do not take or pass the Entry test will be required to obtain a language proficiency certificate recognized by the University (see https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39322) and deliver it to the SLAM via the InformaStudenti service by the deadline fixed for the master's programme (https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39267/).
Applicants who do not meet the requirement by said deadline will not be admitted to the master's degree programme and may not sit any further tests.
Eligibility assessment
The admissions process involves an evaluation of the applicant's curriculum studiorum by an admissions Committee, which consists of the program coordinator and one or more faculty members. Successful applicants will be notified of their eligibility and may proceed with enrollment in the Master's program.
For detailed information on the application process, please visit: https://www.unimi.it/en/study/bachelor-and-master-study/degree-programmeenrolment/enrolment-masters-programme/open-admission-master-programmes
The Admissions Committee may request an interview or other forms of evaluation to further assess the applicant's qualifications. For non-EU applicants who require a visa, the application deadline is April 30, 2025, due to the visa processing time and the limited number of available places, as stipulated by current regulations.
The MB&B Master's degree is open to graduates of the Laurea Triennale of the L-2 class (Biotechnology) and the previous class 1 (Biotechnology). It is also open to students with a Laurea Triennale with a strong background (at least 60 University Credits (CFU)) in biotechnology-related subjects, including at least 36 CFU in biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics and microbiology; at least 10 CFU in mathematics, physics, computer science and statistics; at least 10 CFU in chemistry.
Students with a degree from a non-Italian institution:
Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college at the time of application and have a good knowledge in all the following areas: biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics and microbiology. Sufficient knowledge in the disciplines of mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer science, and statistics is also required. A commission, appointed by the Academic Board, is responsible for collegially analyzing the curriculum studiorum of applicants to verify that the minimum requirements for admission are met. If deemed necessary, the commission may integrate this documentary assessment with other forms of assessment, including interviews. The master's degree does not have a programmed number of students, with a maximum of 25 places reserved for non-EU students residing outside Italy.
In addition to the above curricular requirements, English language proficiency equivalent to or higher than level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required.
Proficiency in English at a B2 level or higher per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required for admission.
The B2-level requirement will be ascertained by the University Language Centre (SLAM) upon admission as follows:
- Language certificate of B2 or higher level issued no more than three years before the date of admission application. You will find the list of language certificates recognized by the University at: https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39322. The certificate must be uploaded when submitting the online application;
- English level achieved during a University of Milan degree programme and certified by the University Language Centre (SLAM) no more than four years before the date of admission application, including levels based on language certificates submitted by the applicant during their Bachelor's degree at the University of Milan. In this case the process is automatic, the applicant does not have to attach any certificates to the application;
- Entry test administrated by the University Language Centre (SLAM) according to the calendar published on the website: (https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39267/)
All those who fail to submit a valid certificate or do not meet the required proficiency level will be instructed during the admission procedure to take the Entry test.
Applicants who do not take or pass the Entry test will be required to obtain a language proficiency certificate recognized by the University (see https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39322) and deliver it to the SLAM via the InformaStudenti service by the deadline fixed for the master's programme (https://www.unimi.it/en/node/39267/).
Applicants who do not meet the requirement by said deadline will not be admitted to the master's degree programme and may not sit any further tests.
Eligibility assessment
The admissions process involves an evaluation of the applicant's curriculum studiorum by an admissions Committee, which consists of the program coordinator and one or more faculty members. Successful applicants will be notified of their eligibility and may proceed with enrollment in the Master's program.
For detailed information on the application process, please visit: https://www.unimi.it/en/study/bachelor-and-master-study/degree-programmeenrolment/enrolment-masters-programme/open-admission-master-programmes
The Admissions Committee may request an interview or other forms of evaluation to further assess the applicant's qualifications. For non-EU applicants who require a visa, the application deadline is April 30, 2025, due to the visa processing time and the limited number of available places, as stipulated by current regulations.
Admission
Application for admission: from 22/01/2025 to 25/08/2025
Application for matriculation: from 02/04/2025 to 15/01/2026
Attachments and documents
Online services
Learn more:
Programme description and courses list
First semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Biotechnological Products and Processes | 6 | 48 | English | CHIM/06 CHIM/11 |
| Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics | 10 | 88 | English | BIO/11 BIO/18 |
| Methods in Bioinformatics | 6 | 48 | English | INF/01 |
| Molecular and Cellular Microbiology | 6 | 48 | English | BIO/18 BIO/19 |
| Rational Design and Structural Characterization of Bioactive Molecules | 6 | 48 | English | CHIM/02 CHIM/06 |
| Optional | ||||
| Bioimaging | 6 | 56 | English | FIS/03 FIS/07 |
| Biotechnological and Molecular Strategies in the Control of Parasites and Vector-Borne Pathogens | 6 | 48 | English | VET/06 |
| Nanotechnology for Biomedical Applications and Biosensors | 6 | 48 | English | CHIM/01 CHIM/06 |
| Patenting and Technology Transfer | 6 | 64 | English | AGR/01 IUS/01 IUS/04 |
| Structural Bioinformatics | 6 | 56 | English | FIS/07 |
Second semester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Advanced Molecular and Cellular Biotechnology | 10 | 80 | English | BIO/06 BIO/11 |
| Advanced Plant Cell Biotechnology | 6 | 48 | English | BIO/04 BIO/18 |
| Protein Engineering and Molecular Enzymology | 6 | 48 | English | BIO/10 |
| Optional | ||||
| Advanced Bioinformatics for Biotechnology | 6 | 48 | English | BIO/11 INF/01 |
| Macromolecular Structural Biology | 6 | 64 | English | BIO/10 |
| Molecular Breeding and Plant Genetics | 6 | 48 | English | AGR/07 BIO/18 |
Open sessions
There are no specific sessions for these activities (e.g. open online courses).
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Additional Language Skills: Italian (3 ECTS) | 3 | 0 | Italian | |
be activated by the A.Y. 2026/2027
Conclusive activities
There are no specific sessions for these activities (e.g. open online courses).
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Laboratory training | 7 | 0 | English | |
| Thesis Project and Final Dissertation | 30 | 0 | English | |
Open sessions
There are no specific sessions for these activities (e.g. open online courses).
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Other training activities | 3 | 0 | English | |
Optional activities and study plan rules
1 - The student must choose at least two of the following courses
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | Lesson period | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Bioinformatics for Biotechnology | 6 | 48 | English | Second semester | BIO/11 INF/01 |
| Bioimaging | 6 | 56 | English | First semester | FIS/03 FIS/07 |
| Biotechnological and Molecular Strategies in the Control of Parasites and Vector-Borne Pathogens | 6 | 48 | English | First semester | VET/06 |
| Macromolecular Structural Biology | 6 | 64 | English | Second semester | BIO/10 |
| Molecular Breeding and Plant Genetics | 6 | 48 | English | Second semester | AGR/07 BIO/18 |
| Nanotechnology for Biomedical Applications and Biosensors | 6 | 48 | English | First semester | CHIM/01 CHIM/06 |
| Patenting and Technology Transfer | 6 | 64 | English | First semester | AGR/01 IUS/01 IUS/04 |
| Structural Bioinformatics | 6 | 56 | English | First semester | FIS/07 |
2 - The student must acquire 12 CFU freely chosen by the student and 3 CFU focused on the development of soft skills, including language courses (Italian for foreigners or advanced English courses), additional computer skills or other skills useful for job placement, including attending seminars from invited experts and scientist. The courses can be chosen either from the list of MB&B electives or from any course offered by the University of Milan, including courses taught in Italian, if they are considered compatible with the objectives of the MB&B degree and are not a repetition of courses already offered in the program. Three credits can be acquired by extending the thesis project, upon presenting a motivated written request that must be approved by the MB&B Study Plan Committee.
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | Lesson period | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Additional Language Skills: Italian (3 ECTS) | 3 | 0 | Italian | Open sessions | |
| Other training activities | 3 | 0 | English | Open sessions |
There are no propaedeutic courses that limit progression from the first to the second year.
Learn more
Location
Milan
Course locations
Lecture rooms and laboratories are in the "Città Studi" campus, mostly in the University buildings of Via Celoria, 26 (Edifici Biologici); Via Celoria, 20 (Settore Didattico); Via Golgi, 19 (Edificio Golgi). The Department of Biosciences is the reference structure for all teaching activities related to the MB&B course.
Laboratory locations
The MB&B course is characterized by an intense laboratory activity that is mainly carried out in the internship activity for the thesis.
Head of study programme
Academic guidance tutor
Erasmus and international mobility tutor
Study plan tutor
Master's degree admission tutor
Quality Assurance Delegate
Reference structures
Contacts
- Academic Services Office
Milan - Via Celoria, 26
https://informastudenti.unimi.it/
By appointment - Student administrative office
Milan - Via Celoria, 18
https://www.unimi.it/en/study/student-services/welcome-desk-informastudenti/student-desks-locations-and-opening-hours
+390250325032
The front offices receive in the days and times indicated on the webpage - International Students Office - Welcome Desk
Milan - Via S. Sofia, 9/1
https://www.unimi.it/en/international/coming-abroad/international-students-office-welcome-desk - Industrial Biotechnology Academic Board
http://www.unimi.it/en/education/faculties-and-schools/science-and-technology/industrial-biotechnology - Boards
Prof. Veronica Gregis, Prof. David Horner (Erasmus); Prof. Carlo Camilloni, Prof. David Horner (Study mobility); Prof. Carlo Camilloni, Prof. Thomas Vaccari (Study Plan); Prof. Carlo Camilloni, Prof. Federico Zambelli (Admission). - Disability manager
Prof. Matteo Chiara - Deputy Head of Study Programme
Prof. Federico Zambelli
The tuition fees for students enrolled in Bachelor's, Master's and single-cycle degree programmes are divided into two instalments with different calculation methods and payment schedules:
- The amount of the first instalment is the same for all students
- The amount of the second instalment varies according to the ISEE University value, the degree programme and the student status (on track / off track for one year or off track for more than a year)
- An additional fee is due for online programmes
The University also offers:
- Concessions for students meeting high merit requirements
- Diversified tuition fees according to the student's home country for international students with assets/income abroad
- Concessions for international students with refugee status
Scholarships and benefits
The University provides a range of financial benefits to students meeting special requirements (merit, financial or personal conditions, international students).
Learn more
Guidance:
Admission, ranking and enrolment