Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, practical laboratory training and an independent research project leading to a master's thesis. Students gain a solid grounding in core life‑science disciplines while choosing specialised modules that reflect current research strengths at the university.

• Core topics: molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, genetics and genomics, microbiology, and physiology.
• Quantitative and computational skills: bioinformatics, statistics for biological data, systems biology and modelling.
• Specialist and elective modules: immunology, cancer biology, developmental biology, plant science, ecological and environmental biology, synthetic biology and biotechnology.
• Laboratory training: advanced practical courses in molecular techniques, imaging, sequencing technologies and experimental design; emphasis on good laboratory practice and reproducible research.
• Research thesis: an original, supervised research project carried out in one of the university’s laboratories, often linked to long‑term research groups. Projects may span basic or applied topics and typically culminate in a written thesis and oral defence.
• Additional elements: seminars, journal clubs and opportunities for short internships or collaborative projects with industry or clinical partners in the Negev region.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree with a strong academic record in life sciences, biological sciences, biomedical sciences or a closely related discipline. Where degrees are from outside the Israeli system, the equivalent of an honours or upper‑second class standard is typically required.

• Academic transcripts: official transcripts showing prior study in core subjects such as molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics and laboratory coursework.
• Research experience: prior lab experience or an undergraduate research project is advantageous and may strengthen an application.
• Additional documentation: curriculum vitae, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, and at least one academic reference. Some applicants may be invited for an interview with prospective supervisors.
• Language requirements: proficiency in English is required; international applicants will need to demonstrate competence by recognised English tests unless exempted by prior study in English.
• Other considerations: applicants with quantitative backgrounds (e.g. mathematics, physics, computer science) who have relevant biological training or intention to upskill through bridging courses may also be considered.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Life Science are well prepared for a range of roles across research, industry and public sectors. The programme’s mix of practical training and research experience equips students with technical and analytical skills valued by employers.

• Research and academia: progression to PhD programmes and careers in academic research groups and teaching.
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries: roles in R&D, assay development, quality control, regulatory affairs and product development.
• Clinical and diagnostic laboratories: positions in clinical research, molecular diagnostics and laboratory management (additional professional certification may be required for clinical roles).
• Environmental and agricultural sectors: work in ecology, conservation, environmental monitoring and crop science, especially relevant given the Negev field‑research opportunities.
• Other pathways: science communication, patent and regulatory consulting, data analysis and bioinformatics roles in commercial and public organisations.

Why study at Ben‑Gurion University of the Negev

Ben‑Gurion University is a research‑intensive institution situated in the Negev, offering unique opportunities for life‑science research that spans laboratory and desert field studies. The university emphasises multidisciplinary collaboration across biology, engineering and medicine, enabling students to work on problems with clear translational or environmental relevance.

• Research environment: access to active research groups in molecular biology, biotechnology, ecology and systems biology, and to core facilities for genomics, imaging and bioinformatics.
• Field and regional advantages: proximity to diverse desert ecosystems and applied research initiatives in arid‑land biology, agriculture and water‑related challenges.
• Industry and clinical links: collaborations with regional biotech companies, hospitals and public research institutes provide pathways for internships, applied projects and technology transfer.
• Support for students: supervised research mentoring, seminar series, and a community of postgraduate students in a compact campus environment in Be’er Sheva.