In this programme, you will focus on improving health and environment, and providing in-depth insight into present-day clinical microbiology and microbial research in general. You will study the interface between fundamental, applied and medical microbiology. As the programme contains more than one year of academic research at a Microbiology research department, you will be at the forefront in the areas of environmental, medical, and molecular microbiology.
Study programme
Study abroad
During your Master's programme, you will have the opportunity to go abroad for your studies, internship and/or thesis. You will learn to look at things from the perspective of a different culture and you will meet new people; it is an experience that will enrich your life. What’s more, it will look great on your CV. Please see the Radboud International web page for information about meetings, scholarships, internships and other practical information.
Additional challenge
Do you want an extra challenge during your studies? Do you find it interesting to think about current, social themes from different academic perspectives? Discover what the Radboud Honours Academy has to offer to achieve your maximum potential during your time as a student.
Research themes
The Master's specialisation in Microbiology is mainly focused on research. You can choose one of the themes below as the subject of your research internship. Or read more information here :

Environmental Microbiology & Biotechnology
Microbiology has the potential to replace common energy-intensive chemical processes by more sustainable solutions. Radboud University collaborates closely with environmental scientists, animal ecologists and industrial partners to create energy-efficient and environmentally friendly solutions for societal waste problems.

Immunology
A better understanding of host defence will lead to the development of improved vaccines against microorganisms. Why do some bacteria make us ill whereas others do not? How do bacteria outsmart our immune system? What are the mechanisms of human defence against microorganisms?

Molecular Microbiology
Understanding host-pathogen interactions is fundamental for the development of novel antibiotics and improvement of vaccines. This requires research at the interface between microbiology, molecular biology and genetics, like, for instance, work on functional gene analyses by mutagenesis studies and on the interaction between epithelial cells and pathogenic bacteria.

Medical Microbiology & Virology
Pathogenic microorganisms are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality across the globe. In-depth insights – from molecule to man – are required to effectively fight microbial infections. How does a virus replicate and cause disease? How can we treat microbial infections? And how to prevent infection by vaccination?