Master of Science (Molecular Biology) by Research Mode is a graduate program designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge and research skills in the field of molecular biology. This program emphasizes independent research, providing students with the opportunity to explore various aspects of molecular biology and its applications in medicine, biotechnology, genetics, and more.

Students in the Master of Science (Molecular Biology) program may explore various research topics within molecular biology. Possible areas of research include:

• Genomics and Genetic Engineering: Studying the structure, function, and manipulation of genes, including genetic modifications, gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR), and gene expression analysis.
• Proteomics: Investigating the structure and function of proteins within cells, including protein interactions, post-translational modifications, and protein-based biomarkers.
• Molecular Diagnostics: Developing molecular techniques for the diagnosis of diseases, including PCR (polymerase chain reaction), next-generation sequencing (NGS), and other cutting-edge diagnostic methods.
• Cell Signaling and Molecular Pathways: Exploring the molecular mechanisms that regulate cellular processes, such as signal transduction, gene regulation, and cellular responses to stimuli.
• Cancer Biology: Studying the molecular and genetic basis of cancer, including the identification of cancer-related genes, oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and the development of targeted therapies.
• Microbial Molecular Biology: Investigating the molecular biology of microorganisms, including bacterial genetics, virulence factors, antibiotic resistance, and microbial interactions.
• Molecular Biotechnology: Researching the application of molecular biology techniques in biotechnology, such as the production of recombinant proteins, biofuels, and biopharmaceuticals.
• Molecular Immunology: Understanding the molecular basis of immune responses, including the interactions between immune cells, antibodies, and pathogens.
• Developmental Biology: Studying the molecular mechanisms that drive cell differentiation, organ development, and embryogenesis.

Expertise available in the following School:
School of Medical Sciences
https://medic.usm.my/

Applicants should possess the following:

A MBBS/MD or equivalent degree, BSc in Medical Sciences/Biotechnology/Biology/ Chemistry/Physics or other related fields from a recognised university.

A) CGPA of at least 2.75/4.00; or
B) CGPA of 2.50 - 2.74/4.00 with; or

• Research experience – 1 year; or
• Professional experience in related field- 1 year; or
• One(1) academic publication in related field; or
• Grade B for major/ elective courses; or
• Grade B+ for final year project.

C) CGPA of 2.00 - 2.49/4.00 (Honours degree) with; or

• Research experience - 5 years; or
• Professional experience in related field - 5 years, AND
• One (1) academic publications  in related field; or
• Grade B for major/elective courses; or
• Grade B+ for final year project.

(Applicable for International Applicants Only)

• A minimum of Band 5 for IELTS; or
• A minimum score of 40 for TOEFL (Internet-based); or
• A minimum of Band 7.5 for TOEFL Essentials (Online); or
• A minimum score of 154 for Cambridge English: Advance (CAE)/Proficiency (CPE) /Preliminary (PET) /First (FCE)/ Linguaskill Online; or
• A minimum score of 47 for Pearson Test of English (PTE); or
• A minimum of Band 107 for CIEP Level (ELS); or
• A minimum of Band 3.5 for Malaysian University English Test (MUET)

Exemption CAN BE CONSIDERED to candidate if:

• English is the candidate’s mother tongue or National Language; or
• Candidate graduated from an Institution of Higher Learning in which the medium of instruction at Bachelor and/or Master degree level is English (statement of proof required)

• Full-time: Min 2 semesters / Max 6 semesters
• Part-time: Min 4 semesters / Max 12 semesters

** Fees are subject to change

** New fees to be imposed starting from Academic Session 2025/2026 (October 2025 intake onward)

** Fees are subject to change