University of Tromsø

What you'll study

This master's programme focuses on applying molecular biology and genomics to environmental and ecological questions. Teaching and research cover laboratory techniques, computational analysis and field-based investigation. Core themes include DNA and RNA sequencing, population and community genetics, environmental DNA (eDNA) methodologies, microbial ecology, ecotoxicology, and molecular responses to climate change.

• Core modules: molecular methods in ecology (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR), high-throughput sequencing and library preparation, bioinformatics and sequence analysis, population genetics and phylogeography.
• Applied/environmental modules: environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring, microbial and microbial-host interactions, ecotoxicology and biomarker approaches, ecosystem responses to environmental change.
• Research and practical training: laboratory rotations, advanced bioinformatics workshops, statistical methods for ecological genomics, and training in good laboratory practice and data management.
• Fieldwork and special topics: field sampling in terrestrial, freshwater and marine habitats—particularly Arctic and sub-Arctic systems—long-term ecological monitoring, and optional modules on remote sensing or policy aspects of environmental management.
• Master's thesis: an independent research project conducted under supervision, often linked to an active research group at the university, a national research institute or an international collaboration. Projects typically involve molecular lab work, data analysis and interpretation, and a written thesis plus oral defence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, biotechnology, environmental science, ecology or a closely related discipline, with documented coursework in genetics, molecular biology and statistics. Competitive candidates typically have laboratory experience and some exposure to ecological or field methods.

• Academic transcript showing a strong undergraduate performance in relevant subjects.
• Demonstrable laboratory experience and/or project work in molecular techniques is an advantage.
• Proficiency in English shown by an approved test or other university-accepted evidence if the applicant’s prior education was not in English.
• Supporting documents such as a CV, letter of motivation that outlines research interests, and academic references. Applicants for research-intensive projects may be asked to provide a brief research proposal or contact potential supervisors in advance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers where molecular tools are applied to environmental problems. Typical destinations include research roles in universities and national research institutes, positions in environmental monitoring agencies, and work with consultancy firms conducting biodiversity assessments or pollution monitoring.

• Research scientist or technician in molecular ecology, conservation genetics and microbial ecology.
• Environmental consultant focusing on biomonitoring, eDNA surveys and ecotoxicology.
• Positions in government agencies and regulatory bodies responsible for environmental assessment, fisheries management or biodiversity policy.
• Biotechnology and environmental biotechnology companies developing molecular assays, diagnostic tools, or remediation technologies.
• Academic progression to PhD programmes in ecology, genomics, environmental science or related fields.

Why study at University of Tromsø

The University of Tromsø (UiT) is uniquely positioned for studies in molecular environmental biology because of its Arctic location, strong research networks and facilities that support cold-climate and marine research. Students benefit from interdisciplinary research groups working on polar biology, marine genomics, and environmental change, and from close collaborations with national research institutes and field stations.

• Access to field sites and long-term ecological programmes in Arctic and sub-Arctic environments, offering hands-on experience in environments that are central to global climate and biodiversity research.
• Well-equipped molecular laboratories and bioinformatics resources, plus training in contemporary sequencing technologies and data analysis pipelines.
• Opportunities to join active research projects and international collaborations, increasing employability and research experience.
• An international teaching and research environment with supervision from academics who specialise in molecular ecology, polar biology and environmental genomics.