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Do you have a clear and specific interest in cancer, stem cells or developmental biology? Join our programme and combine research in oncology, molecular developmental biology and genetics. Discover the mysteries of embryonic growth, stem cells, signalling, gene regulation, evolution, and development as they relate to health and disease.

Contribute to a better understanding of disease treatment and prevention

Given that fundamental developmental processes are so often impacted by disease, an understanding of these processes is vital to the better understanding of disease treatment and prevention. Adult physiology is regulated by developmental genes and mechanisms which, if deregulated, may result in pathological conditions.

Become an expert on molecular and cellular aspects of development and disease and create a better understanding of processes underlying cancer and developmental biology. Use techniques and applications of post-genomic research, including single cell and next generation sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics and advanced microscopy techniques.

About the Research School

The research groups in the Center for Molecular Medicine form the basis of the Research School for Cancer, Stem Cells and Developmental Biology. In addition, other groups from ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ Medical Center Utrecht and Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ, the Hubrecht Institute, the Princess Maxima Center, as well as the Netherlands Cancer Institute in Amsterdam, participate in our Research School. Students will immerse in this multidisciplinary setting and perform their Major Research Project in one of . Theoretical courses are offered throughout the year and aim to provide insight into the current state-of-the-art in a particular field, including the latest results, the biggest challenges, recent technical advances and ultimate goals. Students can choose their own courses and projects, and are supported to explore their interests within the themes of our programme.

I got to spend most of my time in labs, which is where I learn best

Why you should study Cancer, Stem Cells and Developmental Biology at Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ

• Study with a unique emphasis on developmental biology, a process with many connections to cancer.
• Collaborate with national and international research institutes, and gain valuable experience at partner institutions all around the world.
• Focus on fundamental molecular aspects of disease related questions, particularly questions related to cancer and the use of stem cells in regenerative medicine.
• Freedom to design your own programme, by choosing a research project and electives that best fit your interests. You also select 1 out of 8 thematic which are designed to equip you with skills for your future career.

Study at UMC Utrecht

Students are able to follow their Master’s programme at UMC Utrecht, one of the largest academic medical centers in the Netherlands. UMC Utrecht focuses on a number of ; selected students get educated by some of the best researchers in these research areas. Students get ample opportunities for excellent internships both at UMC Utrecht and abroad with our international partners. They also have access to the large research infrastructure and research network of the focus areas.

Introducing the Graduate School of Life Sciences

Life Sciences is one of the four strategic themes of Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ and is organised in the Graduate School of Life Sciences (GSLS). The GSLS brings together the research expertise and facilities of the faculties of Science, Medical Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, in cooperation with . Research at the GSLS is highly interdisciplinary, because scientific breakthroughs take place where physics, medicine, chemistry and biology interact. The graduate school offers 15 Master’s programmes with each a different focus. As a school we also offer one course for all students. During your first week the GSLS will offer you a (mandatory) one week introduction for all students: Introducing Life Sciences (part of the course Life Sciences Academy).