University of Milan

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced theoretical courses with substantial practical laboratory training and an independent research thesis. Core topics cover molecular and cellular biology, human genetics, genomics and transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, and the molecular basis of major disease areas such as cancer, neurodegeneration and infectious disease.

• Molecular Biology and Signal Transduction — mechanisms of gene expression, protein function and intracellular signalling relevant to disease.
• Human Genetics and Genomics — genetic variation, sequencing technologies, bioinformatic analysis and interpretation in clinical contexts.
• Proteomics and Metabolomics — experimental and computational approaches to profiling proteins and metabolites.
• Immunology and Immunotherapy — immune system function, immune-pathology and translational immunotherapeutic strategies.
• Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine — principles and laboratory methods for stem cell research and tissue engineering.
• Translational Medicine and Clinical Research — study design, biomarkers, companion diagnostics and basics of clinical trials and regulatory frameworks.
• Biotech Techniques and Laboratory Rotations — hands-on modules in cell culture, molecular cloning, PCR, next-generation sequencing, flow cytometry and microscopy; rotations in different research groups.
• Bioinformatics and Statistical Analysis — data analysis pipelines, programming basics for high-throughput data and biostatistics.
• Research Project / Master’s Thesis — an extended laboratory or translational research project carried out under faculty supervision, often in collaboration with clinical or industry partners.

Students typically follow a mix of lectures, seminars, journal clubs, lab practicals and project work. Opportunities exist to take elective courses or placements that align with specific interests, such as clinical diagnostics, molecular pathology or drug discovery.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant bachelor’s degree (or recognised equivalent) in biotechnology, biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, molecular biology or a closely related discipline. A solid foundation in cell and molecular biology and practical laboratory experience are expected.

• Academic transcript showing a degree in a relevant field with good marks.
• Laboratory experience — documented practical skills from coursework, internships or research placements are advantageous.
• Supporting materials — a CV, a statement of purpose describing research interests and career goals, and at least one academic reference are normally required.
• Language proficiency — programmes taught in English will require proof of English ability if your first language is not English; other language requirements may apply for courses or placements in Italian contexts.
• Selection process — assessment is typically based on academic record and application documents; some applicants may be invited for an interview or to provide a short research proposal.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped for research and specialist roles across academia, healthcare and industry. Typical career paths include:

• Research scientist or laboratory head in university and hospital research institutes.
• R&D roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, including molecular diagnostics and drug discovery.
• Clinical laboratory scientist or specialist in molecular pathology and diagnostic services.
• Clinical research associate or roles in design and management of clinical trials and translational studies.
• Regulatory affairs, medical affairs, and quality control roles within the biomedical sector.
• Further academic research via PhD study in molecular medicine, genomics or related fields.
• Science communication, patent examination or technology transfer positions bridging academia and industry.

Students who complete the programme are well placed to enter the strong biomedical and biotech employment market in Milan and beyond, or to continue to doctoral training.

Why study at University of Milan

The University of Milan is a large, research-intensive institution with a long history in biomedical sciences and extensive collaboration with hospitals and research institutes in Milan. The university’s location in a major biomedical and biotech hub offers access to cutting-edge laboratories, interdisciplinary research groups and industry partners.

• Research environment — opportunities to work with established research teams across molecular medicine, clinical research and translational projects.
• Clinical links — established collaborations with regional hospitals and research hospitals provide access to patient-derived samples and clinical expertise for translational projects.
• Practical training — substantial laboratory components and rotations give graduates hands-on experience with modern molecular techniques and data analysis.
• Career support — connections to local biotech companies and research centres facilitate internships, placements and employment routes.

Overall, the programme is designed to develop both the experimental skills and the translational mindset required to move molecular discoveries toward clinical application or industrial development.