MS in Biological Sciences

Our program emphasizes the principles and experimental approaches of modern and applied biological sciences and covers a variety of sub-disciplines. It prepares you to pursue doctoral studies and careers in biomedical sciences.

The four main research niche areas: 

• Microbial Genomics
• Human Genomics
• Neurobiology
• Cancer Biology 

A Competitive Edge

This is a research-intensive program that will offer you opportunities to publish papers, participate in symposia and network with renowned scientists during your years of study.

You will come out with a strong competitive edge that will get you solid career offerings and chances to conduct doctoral studies in the best universities, including IVY league. 

Your thesis can be in a wide-range of fields: microbial genomics, cell biology, biochemistry, cancer biology, cancer therapeutics, clinical microbiology, environmental microbiology, human genetics, fungal genetics, and neurobiology.

World-Class Research Facilities

You will have access to state-of-the-art labs that will allow you to conduct research in molecular biology, cell and cancer biology, and neurobiology (next-generation sequencing and analysis, DNA sequencer, imaging systems, real-time PCR systems, flow cytometry, inverted fluorescent microscopes, fluorescent cell imager, and proteomics and mass spectrometry).

In addition, you will have access to local hospitals, including the LAU Medical Center-Rizk Hospital, the biomedical industry and academics in Lebanon and abroad.

Our Students

Joe Ibrahim (BS ‘13, MS ‘15), currently pursuing a PhD in Bioinformatics at the University of Antwerp, Belgium:

“I had the chance to work with one of the most recent technologies available at that time: next-generation sequencing. LAU, and in particular the pathogenomics group, was one of the first research entities in Lebanon to perform whole-genome sequencing experiments on clinical samples. We worked with international laboratories and biotech for sample processing or analysis. All of these opportunities enhanced my exposure in the scientific field and better prepared me for future prospects.”

Scholarship and Assistantship Opportunities

We offer graduate assistantships (GA) that cover up to 100 percent of the tuition fees against a commitment of 20 hours of GA work per week. Other types of financial support are also available. Check them here.

Curriculum

The MS in Biological Sciences comprises a total of 30 credits:

• Core courses: 9 credits
• Elective courses: 15 credits
• Thesis: 6 credit

I. MS Core Courses (9 credits)

II. Elective Courses (15 credits)

III. Research work (6 credits)

The thesis can be in the following fields of research: Microbial Genomics, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Cancer Therapeutics, Clinical Microbiology, Environmental Microbiology, Human Genetics, Fungal Genetics, and Neurobiology.