The online application for studies starting in autumn 2025 is now open
Apply at the Finnish national application portal Studyinfo.fi. The deadline to apply is 16 Jan 2025 at 15:00 (UTC+2).
Research
The international and interdisciplinary Master's Programme in Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology aims to educate experts with outstanding scientific skills.
The research and problem based education provides the student with an excellent basis for a career in environmental authorities, industries, as well as in research.
Research groups and fields of research
Computational Microbial Ecology We develop and use computational models, machine learning and bioinformatics to understand the dynamics of human microbial communities – predominantly the gut microbiomes – and their implications to human development, health and wellbeing.
Fungal Co-life, Omics and Ecophysiology Eco-physiology, genomics, transcriptomics and metabolism of wood-decaying forest fungi are our topics of research. We aim at opening fungal interactions and bioconversion of wastes and lignocelluloses to biofuels and products. Principal investigator is Taina Lundell.
Fungal Genetics and Biotechnology The Fungal Genetics and Biotechnology group studies various aspects of fungal molecular biology and enzymology in terms of plant biomass degradation. Principal investigators are Kristiina Hildén and Miia Mäkelä.
Molecular Environmental Biosciences Microbes have a major effect on the ecosystem and humans. Microbes run biogeochemical cycles of the elements, play a major role in the intestines of animals and biotechnology such as waste water treatment and food production, just to mention some. On the other hand, microbes cause diseases for plants, animals and humans.
Molecular mechanisms of bacteria in infectious diseases and health We are interested in the basic mechanisms involved when bacteria infect the human host and the focus is on pathogens causing recurrent urinary tract infections and newborn meningitis as well as on health-promoting lactic acid bacteria.
Plant Virology We focus on plant cell-virus-interactions: molecular mechanisms underlying plant virus infection and interplay between viral and host proteins during potyviral replication / translation cycle.
RNA virus replication and antivirals We aim towards deep understanding of RNA virus replication at the molecular level. Through the discovery of basic mechanistic principles, we develop new and general antiviral strategies.