University of Milan

What you'll study

This master's provides an integrated programme in computational methods for genomics and molecular biology. Core topics include programming for bioinformatics (Python and R), statistical genomics, algorithms for sequence analysis, and machine learning for biological data. You will study next-generation sequencing (NGS) data analysis workflows such as read alignment, variant calling and RNA‑seq differential expression, together with population and comparative genomics.

Other typical subjects are structural bioinformatics and protein modelling, functional annotation and pathway analysis, biological databases and data management, and reproducible research practices (workflow managers, version control, containerisation). Practical laboratory-bioinformatics modules give hands-on experience with real datasets from genomics, transcriptomics and epigenomics.

The course normally includes project-based work and a substantial research dissertation or capstone project supervised by an academic or industry partner, allowing you to apply computational methods to an original problem in genomics.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline such as biology, biotechnology, computer science, mathematics, physics, bioengineering or a closely related subject. Successful candidates typically demonstrate foundational knowledge in molecular biology and basic programming or statistics. Admissions may consider applicants with mixed backgrounds who can show compensatory knowledge through prior coursework or professional experience.

Applications usually require academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, and a personal statement outlining research interests and relevant experience. Where the programme or specific courses are taught in English, proof of English language proficiency may be requested. Individual candidate suitability is assessed by the programme admissions panel; additional bridging courses can be recommended for gaps in preparation.

Career prospects

Graduates from this field move into roles such as bioinformatician, computational biologist, genomic data analyst, biostatistician, or data scientist in sectors including academic research, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, clinical genomics and diagnostics, public health laboratories, and agricultural genomics. Others progress to PhD programmes to pursue research careers or join translational teams working on precision medicine and molecular diagnostics.

Typical employers include university research groups, contract research organisations (CROs), national and regional research institutes, hospitals and clinical genomics centres, as well as start-ups and established companies in the life sciences and health‑tech sectors. The technical skills developed also transfer to roles in data engineering, software development for scientific applications, and scientific consulting.

Why study at University of Milan

The University of Milan is a multidisciplinary research university with active groups in molecular biology, genomics and computational biology. Students benefit from access to research laboratories, sequencing and core facilities, and collaborations with local hospitals and research institutes in the Milan biomedical ecosystem. Teaching is informed by ongoing research, and many modules are delivered by academic staff engaged in genomics projects.

Located in a major Italian research and healthcare hub, the programme offers opportunities for internships, collaborative projects and networking with industry partners. The city’s concentration of biotech companies and clinical centres makes it convenient to pursue applied projects and to seek placements that complement academic training.

Overall, the course is designed to provide a balance of theoretical foundations, practical data analysis skills and project experience, preparing graduates to contribute immediately to genomics research and data-driven life science roles.