Life Sciences – Environmental Biology Track, in Collaboration with the Volcani Institute (.M.Sc)

עברית

What will you study, and why should you study at Bar-Ilan?

.M.Sc

Agriculture, the environment, and food are no longer separate fields—they are intertwined within a complex system of scientific and practical challenges. Understanding how food is produced in a changing world, how soil and water are managed effectively, and how research-based solutions are developed provides knowledge that has a tangible impact and forms the foundation for informed action in complex environmental realities.

It is at this intersection that the M.Sc. in Life Sciences – Environmental Biology Track was created, conducted in research collaboration between the Faculty of Life Sciences at Bar-Ilan University and the Volcani Institute. This track is built on a sustained academic partnership between two leading research institutions, allowing students to specialize in diverse research areas related to modern and future agriculture, soil and water management, plant sciences and crop protection, animal biology, agricultural product improvement, and food technologies. The combination of advanced applied research with theoretical coursework provides a framework that deepens scientific understanding while connecting it to real-world environmental and agricultural challenges.

This degree is designed for students seeking in-depth research training in environmental biology and serves as a foundation for careers in both academic and applied research, as well as for pursuing doctoral studies.

Graduates of the M.Sc. program in Life Sciences pursue a wide range of careers and roles, including:

  • Research institutes and academic institutions, as well as continuing on to doctoral studies

  • Government research institutes and public sector research units

  • Organizations working in agriculture, environmental management, and sustainability, including environmental NGOs and the Ministry of Environmental Protection

  • Life sciences industries, including biotechnology, pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics companies

  • Medical laboratories and hospitals, including clinical trials units

  • Private companies and start-ups in biotechnology, medical, and laboratory equipment development

  • Teaching, training, and professional development positions, in accordance with institutional and regulatory requirements

התואר המחקרי בביולוגיה סביבתית נמשך שנתיים (לא כולל שנת השלמות, במידת הצורך). הלימודים מתחילים בסמסטר א’, והמחקר עצמו מתחיל ב-1 באוקטובר של כל שנת לימודים.

The research-based M.Sc. in Environmental Biology track is completed over two years (excluding any prerequisite or remedial year, if required). The studies begin in Semester A, with research officially starting on October 1 of each academic year.

Program Structure:

  • Total Credits: 40 credits – 24 credits of coursework and 16 credits for the thesis

    Research Proposal: Submitted at the end of the first year

    Final Grade: Determined according to university regulations – 75% based on the research thesis and 25% on coursework

Required Courses – First Year

  • Principles of Scientific Instrumentation and Data Analysis

  • Biostatistics and Introduction to Clinical Trials

Thesis Work

  • In the second year, students must register for MSc Thesis (803000)

Seminars

  • Participation in the Faculty Seminar (colloquium) is required each academic year

  • Registration for the colloquium is under code 80-9000-01 and does not carry credit

  • Students must select two seminars from the approved seminar list (both can be taken in the same year or one per year)

Elective Courses

  • Complete 24 credits from Faculty of Life Sciences courses

  • Up to 4 credits from relevant courses in other departments may be included, depending on the research topic and in consultation with the supervisor

General / Jewish Studies Courses

  • 4 credits for students who completed their bachelor’s at Bar-Ilan University

  • 8 credits for students who did not complete their bachelor’s at Bar-Ilan University

     

     

The M.Sc. in Life Science with a specialization in Environmental Biology is built around hands-on research conducted under the guidance of experienced researchers within the research laboratories of the Volcani Institute and the Faculty of Life Sciences research groups.

In parallel with laboratory research, the program includes participation in seminars and practical learning activities that provide field exposure. This includes courses in ecology and environmental biology with field trips throughout the academic year, allowing students to gain direct experience with ecological systems and natural research environments.

The  M.Sc. in Life Science also offers courses and laboratory work focused on advanced research tools and techniques, such as light and electron microscopy, immunological analyses, cell separation, and quantitative analysis of data and images. Some of this activity is conducted under the supervision of Volcani Institute researchers, reflecting the strong research collaboration between the institutions.

  • A relevant bachelor’s degree with a minimum average grade of 80

  • Applicants with an average below 85 may be required to attend an admissions interview with the admissions committee

  • Finding a Supervisor: Applicants must identify a suitable supervisor at the time of registration and confirm their availability

  • Supervisor Approval: Admission to the program is only finalized after the supervisor formally confirms to the Faculty’s Graduate Studies Office that they agree to mentor the candidate

  • Students are enrolled in Track 80405 and are required to coordinate with representatives from the Volcani Institute.

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Last Updated Date : 18/01/2026