As a Molecular Sciences student in Nijmegen, you will dive into all aspects of the synthesis and functioning of molecules; from solid state molecular chemistry to spectroscopy and to the chemical biology that lies at the basis of health and disease. This Master’s programme combines theoretical courses with extensive research internships in a multidisciplinary environment. With four research- and two societal specialisations, you have plenty of choices in which directions you want to take your molecular career.
Research specialisations
In the specialisation Chemistry of Life, you will focus on complex molecular systems in a biological context. You will learn how cells work from a chemist’s perspective and become an expert in the chemistry of all biologically relevant molecules. Closely related, but more focused on medical applications, is the specialisation Medicinal Chemistry. You will study all stages of drug development (discovery, design, development, targeted delivery), including the phases of drug activity relating to a drug’s formulation, analysis of its toxicity, and understanding of its pharmacokinetics and -dynamics. The specialisation Molecular Chemistry focuses on core chemistry; a creative science which involves the synthesis of molecules with new biological or physical properties in order to meet scientific or societal challenges. The possibilities are endless! Or move further towards molecular physics; the specialisation Physical Chemistry aims at unravelling the properties of molecules and materials in great detail, by developing theory and physical instrumentation for advanced spectroscopic experiments.
Societal specialisations
If you’d like to combine your research background with a societal perspective, we also offer two specialisations aiming at society and management. In Science in Society, you can dive into philosophical questions surrounding your research area and study how society and research influence each other. In the specialisation Science, Management and Innovation, you will study management-related issues and solutions, with a special focus on how we can achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, a call to action from the UN to end poverty and inequality, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy health, justice and prosperity.
We also offer a educational Master’s in Dutch; Educatie in de Bètawetenschappen, which will prepare you for a teaching career in chemistry or biology.
