Life Sciences - Genetics Track (.M.Sc)

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גנטיקה

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

.M.Sc

Behind every biological process, from normal development to disease, from environmental adaptation to therapeutic response, lie complex genetic mechanisms. The field of genetics seeks to understand how genetic information is translated into biological function: how genes are expressed and regulated, how they shape the activity of cells and organisms, and how genetic variation influences physiological, developmental, and pathological processes.

Genetic research examines how genes function under changing biological conditions, how they respond to environmental and physiological factors, and how they interact with complex cellular and organismal systems. By linking genetic sequences to biological function, this research enables scientists to identify mechanisms underlying disease, understand processes of development and adaptation, and generate knowledge that advances medicine, biotechnology, agriculture, and environmental science.

The thesis-track Master’s degree in Life Sciences – Genetics Track focuses on research at the cellular, molecular, and genomic levels. Students may specialize in areas such as clinical genetics, cell and gene therapy, molecular virology, immunogenetics, and computational genomics. Throughout the program, students acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical research experience, developing a deep understanding of genetic mechanisms and their impact on complex biological systems.

The program is based on an independent research thesis conducted under the supervision of a senior faculty member in the Faculty of Life Sciences. Students become integrated into active research groups, engage with cutting-edge scientific questions, and apply advanced technologies and innovative research methods.  

Graduates of the thesis-track Master’s degree in Life Sciences – Genetics Track acquire advanced research training that prepares them for a wide range of research and applied positions. These include academic research laboratories (including continuation to Ph.D. studies), research institutes, hospitals and clinical research units, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, fields of clinical and applied genetics, and startups operating in molecular biology, genomics, and biotechnology.

In addition, the broad research training in life sciences enables graduates to integrate into related fields, depending on the focus of their research, the specialization they pursued during their studies, and the practical experience they gained throughout the program.

 

The thesis-track Master’s degree – Genetics Track is a two-year program, during which you will complete your research project and thesis (not including a possible make-up year, if required). 

The program begins in Semester A, with research starting on October 1 each year.

The program comprises 40 credit points (CP):

  • 24 CP – Courses

  • 16 CP – Research Thesis

The final grade for the degree is determined according to the university regulations: 75% based on the research project (thesis) and 25% based on coursework. 

The program requirements do not include mandatory university courses in Jewish studies or general education courses.

Required Courses and Seminars

During the program, you are required to complete core courses, seminars, and a thesis in accordance with faculty requirements:

  • In the first year of study, students must enroll in the following courses: Principles of Scientific Instrumentation and Data Analysis (80801) and  Biostatistics and Introduction to Clinical Trials (80534). 
  • In the second year of study, students must enroll in the thesis research code.
  • Students are required to register annually for the departmental Colloquium (Faculty Seminar) (809000-01).
  • Students must also choose two seminars from the program’s approved seminar list.

Students may take up to 4 credits of research-relevant courses in other departments, subject to approval.

The research proposal must be submitted at the end of the first year. A change in research topic or supervisor may require additional coursework, as determined by faculty regulations.

The final degree grade is determined according to university regulations: 75% based on the research thesis and 25% based on coursework.

*Program requirements do not include university‑wide obligations for Judaic studies or general education courses.

As part of the Genetics Track, you will engage in hands-on work within active research laboratories and address current questions in the field of genetics. 

During your research, you will integrate theoretical knowledge with experimental practice, develop independent research thinking, and gain experience in designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and presenting findings in an academic context. This practical experience provides in-depth exposure to advanced research methods and to the day-to-day workings of research teams across different areas of genetics.

Research in the track spans a variety of directions, depending on your thesis topic and research group, including cell and gene therapy, clinical genetics, general and molecular virology, computational genomics, and immunogenetics. Your work will involve the use of advanced tools in molecular biology, genetics, and bioinformatics, enabling you to deepen your understanding of genetic mechanisms at the cellular, organismal, and population levels.

Academic Average: 

  • A minimum average of 80 in a relevant Bachelor’s degree is required. 
  • Applicants with an average below 85 will be required to attend an interview with the admissions committee.

Supervisor Identification: 

  • Admission is contingent upon identifying a potential supervisor and obtaining their formal approval prior to enrollment. 
  • It is recommended that prospective students contact potential supervisors in advance to confirm their availability for mentoring.
  • The Faculty website publishes a list of faculty members who are interested in supervising M.Sc. students; however, students may also reach out to supervisors who do not appear on this list.
  • 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.

Want to learn more about the M.Sc. in Life Sciences - Genetics Track?

Last Updated Date : 16/03/2026