Evolution, Biodiversity and Conservation
| Specialisation of: | Biology |
|---|---|
| Degree: | Master of Science in Biology |
| Mode of Study: | Full-time |
| Duration: | 2 years |
| Start date: | Flexible, for international students preferably September or February |
| Language of instruction: | English |
| Location: | Leiden |
| Croho/isat code: | 66860 |
Evolution, Biodiversity and Conservation is a new, internationally-oriented prominent master’s specialisation in biological sciences at Leiden University. The world is a breeding ground for the most unusual and special organisms, varying from obscure invertebrates to enormous trees in the rain forest, and, of course, our own species, man. Each of them has its own unique characteristics. This master’s specialism is concerned with understanding, describing and maintaining this variation. Its broad scope enables you with many opportunities to pursue your own scientific interests, whether it is research on the developmental biology or behaviour of animals, understanding the natural protection mechanisms of plants, examining marine biodiversity in the tropics, or revealing the consequences of introducing exotic animals and plants – to mention just a few of the options.
Programme
The MSc track (120 EC) consists of a theoretical part (32-60 EC) and one or more research projects (60-88 EC). The programme is flexible, providing the option of either keeping a broad approach or specialising in a particular area. Courses cover a broad range of relevant subjects and provide in-depth, state of the art knowledge as well as training in practical skills and the use of advanced research tools. Top scientists from outside the Netherlands are invited for special lectures and discussion with students.
The research projects are carried out in close collaboration with the staff of the various institutes and range from, for instance, experimental studies on the molecular mechanisms of development or animal behaviour to collection-based research on biodiversity or field projects in the Netherlands or elsewhere (e.g. terrestrial and marine studies in Southeast Asia). Some concentrate on a single model organism, others are comparative.
After an internal project, students are encouraged to take part in an external project at an affiliated institute abroad.
e-Prospectus Biology: Evolution, Biodiversity and Conservation
