University of Tromsø

What you'll study

This two‑year research‑oriented master's integrates molecular biology, biochemical analysis and applied biotechnology with a focus on marine organisms. Core topics typically include marine natural products and bioprospecting, enzymology and protein chemistry, molecular genetics of marine species, marine microbiology, bioinformatics and metabolic pathway analysis. Training emphasises practical laboratory skills: chromatography, mass spectrometry, molecular cloning, PCR and sequencing workflows, enzyme assays, and omics‑based approaches (genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics).

Programme structure normally combines coursework and research. In the first year you follow advanced taught courses and laboratory rotations that build methodological competence and experimental design skills. In the second year you undertake an independent research project and write a master's thesis under supervision from academic staff within UiT's marine biotechnology and chemical biology research groups. Seminars, journal clubs and collaboration with external partners (research institutes and industry) are integrated to expose students to applied questions and technology transfer.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree in biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a closely related field with sufficient credit in natural science and laboratory practice. Documented training in core subjects such as biochemistry, molecular biology and microbiology is normally expected. Applicants are also expected to demonstrate proficiency in English; accepted evidence usually comprises recognised test scores or other documentation of tertiary‑level instruction in English.

Selection may consider academic transcripts, references, relevant laboratory experience (including internships or research projects), and the match between applicant interests and available supervisors. Candidates without a directly matching degree but with substantial relevant experience may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped for research and development roles in biotechnology and related sectors. Typical career paths include positions in marine and industrial biotechnology firms, pharmaceutical and natural product companies, aquaculture and seafood industries (e.g. health‑promoting ingredients, feed additives), environmental monitoring and consultancy, and governmental or non‑governmental research organisations. Many graduates continue in academia by pursuing PhD studies in molecular biology, chemical ecology, enzymology or applied marine science. The applied laboratory and bioinformatics skills developed during the programme are also valued in quality control, regulatory affairs and science communication roles.

Why study at University of Tromsø

UiT The Arctic University of Norway offers unique advantages for marine biotechnology because of its Arctic location and direct access to diverse marine ecosystems and cold‑adapted organisms. The university has established research groups and infrastructure specialising in marine natural products, enzyme discovery and molecular ecology, and maintains active collaborations with national research institutes and industry partners. Students benefit from modern laboratory facilities, fieldwork opportunities, and supervision from researchers experienced in translating basic discoveries into applied solutions for health, industry and environmental challenges.