LIFE
SCIENCES
Master of Science
in Biotechnology
about the program
Enroll in Skoltech Life Sciences program and become a sought-after professional capable of cracking challenges in bioinformatics, molecular biology, neuro- and plant-sciences and other fields. You will be contributing to scientific progress, advancing basic research, and envisioning forthcoming technologies.
  • Mode, duration
    2 years (full-time)
  • Language
    English
  • Fees
    Full tuition coverage
  • Upcoming deadline
    Apply for the competitive selection by May 27, 2024
  • Benefits
    Monthly scholarship (up to 55.000 rub/month), relocation & accommodation, private medical insurance (in accordance with Skoltech policies)
Our students:
01
gain advanced knowledge in the emerging areas of molecular biology, gene engineering, pharmacology, bioinformatics, neuro- and plant-sciences
02
develop hard and soft skills indispensable for a future career
03
master cutting-edge methods and technologies and learn to implement them in research
    04
    apply a multidisciplinary approach drawing upon mathematics, statistics, programming and other disciplines to address pressing challenges in biotechnology
    04
    gain hands-on experience in designing and carrying out experiments, as well as analyzing and interpreting results
    06
    gain multinational research experience working with research partmers
    05
    choose from a multitude of fields and career pathways ranging from research labs to multinational companies
    The 2-year program comprises compulsory and recommended elective courses on the most important topics, a wide range of elective courses (depending on the student's research and professional needs), components of entrepreneurship and innovation, research activity and 8 weeks of industrial immersion.

    Research
    A key component of your studies is independent research work at world–class laboratories. The following research areas are available for you:
    • Computational biology and bioinformatics: structural proteomics, functional genomics, evolutionary biology, metagenomics
    • Biochemistry and molecular biology: regulation of gene expression, non-coding RNAs function, plant biology and genetics, proteomics and metabolomics
    • Microbiology: phage-host interactions, development of new antibiotics
    • Development of instrumentation and diagnostics: mass spectrometry, test systems for detection of pathogens, prediction of health risks, brain-computer interfaces
    • Biomedicine: immunology, drug development, AI-guided neuro research for rehabilitation
    Labs
    Every program dedicates time for students' independent research as a core part of their curriculum. Skoltech hosts over 40 world-class laboratories. Students have full access to the facilities throughout their studies and can conduct research based on their interests
    Future career
    Our graduates shape their own futures by choosing from a variety of career opportunities in industry, science, and business.
    Industry
    Landing bioinformatics, genetics and biomedical positions with major companies and startups
    Science
    Landing PhD positions and extension of the research in leading Russian and international scientific entities
    Startup
    Starting a business on their own or through the Skolkovo innovation ecosystem with its extensive pool of experts, partners, mentors and investors
      Partners
      Skoltech maintains close ties with leading companies in industries and academia.

      Industrial partners:
      Admissions
      Applications for competitive selection can be submitted online. The bigger part of the selection process is conducted online, and only the final stage takes place offline at the Skoltech campus
      1
      Registration
      Prepare your portfolio (in English):
      • CV
      • Motivation letter
      • 2 letters of recommendation
      • Diploma or transcript from the university
      • Certificates and awards
      2
      Submit your application
      Upload your materials into the SIA application system (apply.skoltech.ru)
      3
      Online testing
      Every candidate must take an online subject test. You will be notified via email about the specific date and time of your test.

      Examination for the Life Science Master's program will include a compulsory test in 4 subjects: Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Molecular Biology.

      Applicants will also be asked to choose and complete an elective test in one of the following subjects: General Biology, Agrobiotechnology or Neurobiology.

      sample compulsory test
      sample elective test
      sample compulsory and elective tests (NEW)
      4
      Final stage
      The final selection takes place in Moscow. You have to pass an English exam on site or present a valid certificate of English proficiency, and take an in-person interview and entrepreneurship challenge. Extra written examinations may be required for certain programs during this time (you will be notified in advance). In case you're not from Moscow, we can accommodate you in the Skoltech dorms for the selection weekend period.
      5
      Enrollment
      You will be enrolled in Skoltech based on the results of all the competitive selection procedures
      Entry requirements
      Knowledge, skills and educational background sufficient for successful enrollment
      Education
      Relevant bachelor's degree, or its equivalent in biology, chemistry, agro, IT, physics, medicine or mathematics
      English language
      If your education has not been conducted in English, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.
        faculty
        enjoy courses and supervision by world-renowned scientists and engineers
        application
        The application period for Skoltech master's programs is now open. The second wave deadline is May 27. To apply, press the button below.
        Contact us
        e-mail: admissions@skoltech.ru
        phone: +7 (495) 280-1481_ext.3387

        address: 30с1 Bolshoi boulevard,
        Skolkovo, 121205, Russian Federation
        Room E-R3-2026
        We are more than happy to meet visitors Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 18:00. Please arrange a visit 48 hours in advance by contacting admissions@skoltech.ru