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Crack the code of living systems

Bioinformatics and Systems Biology (joint degree VU/UvA)

Modern biology is driven by data. This programme equips you with the computational, biological and quantitative expertise to transform complex biological data into new insights into health, disease and living systems.

Modern biological research depends on scientists who can bridge biology with computation. In this programme, you develop interdisciplinary expertise across bioinformatics, systems biology, machine learning and computational modelling, while learning how to integrate experimental and computational approaches to investigate complex biological questions.

Throughout the programme, you discover how biological data is generated, analysed and interpreted, explore the mechanisms underlying living systems, design computational models and data-driven analyses, and apply these to challenges ranging from disease mechanisms and precision medicine to biotechnology and fundamental biological research.

In the first year, you build a strong foundation. In the second year, you specialise through electives and one or two research projects, working alongside leading researchers, clinicians and industry partners on real-world biomedical challenges.

Courses are taught entirely in English and take place at both locations of VU and UvA.
The start date of this programme is September 1st.
For a detailed overview of courses visit the study guide.

VU Online Master's Event

Thursday 26 November 2026

Year 1: Build a strong foundation

In the first year, you build a solid foundation in both Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, while developing the computational, statistical and biological knowledge needed to address complex biomedical challenges. You explore how biological data is generated, analysed and interpreted, and learn how computational methods help uncover the mechanisms underlying living systems.

Topics include:

  • Computational biology and bioinformatics
  • Systems biology and biological networks
  • Statistical data analysis and visualisation
  • Sequence analysis and genomics
  • Machine learning and biomedical data analysis

Following the 5 compulsory courses in semester one, you tailor your study path by choosing specialised constrained-choice courses.

Core courses

  • Introduction to Systems Biology
  • Fundamentals of Bioinformatics
  • Statistics with R: Develop practical skills in analysing, visualising and interpreting biological data using statistical methods and R
  • Algorithms in Sequence Analysis: Explore the computational algorithms that underpin genome sequencing, single-cell analysis and evolutionary genomics
  • Biosystems Data Analysis: Learn how to analyse complex biological and biochemical datasets using multivariate statistical techniques

Constrained-choice courses

  • Structural Bioinformatics: Explore computational methods to analyse, predict and simulate protein structures, and learn how to apply these techniques to biological research.
  • Basic Models of Biological Networks: Model complex biological systems using mathematical approaches to understand processes such as cancer development and cellular regulation.
  • Scientific Machine Learning: Apply machine learning techniques to biomolecular data to answer biological research questions and solve real-world data challenges.
  • Bioinformatics for Translational Medicine: Learn how computational methods integrate biological and clinical data to predict clinical outcomes and uncover disease mechanisms.
  • Systems Biology in Practice: Combine experimental data with computational modelling to test biological hypotheses and investigate complex living systems.
  • Quantitative Single-cell Biology: Investigate how single cells respond to changing environments by analysing flow cytometry, imaging and growth data.
  • Image Processing and Quantitative Data Analysis: Learn how to process biological images and extract quantitative information to support biomedical research.

Find the complete course overview in the study guide.

Year 2: Specialisation and application

In the second and final year, you apply your knowledge in one or two research projects, complemented by electives that match your interests. You may conduct your research projects at hospitals, companies in biotech, food, pharma, or seed breeding, or at universities in Data Science or Bioinformatics & Systems Biology groups. Working alongside leading researchers, clinicians and industry partners, you investigate complex biological questions in practice, preparing you for a career in research or industry.

Research topics include:

  • Genomics, sequencing and sequence analysis
  • Molecular profiling, pathways and biomarker discovery
  • Drug sensitivity prediction and precision medicine
  • Gene regulatory and metabolic network modelling
  • Tissue modelling and biophysical simulations
  • Microbial evolution and quantitative biology
  • Data science and machine learning in biology

Find the complete course overview in the study guide

Your future in Bioinformatics & Systems Biology

On completing this Master’s programme, many graduates pursue an academic career and go for a PhD position in Bioinformatics & Systems Biology. Alternatively, you can apply your acquired skills in related fields, such as biotechnology, data science, healthcare or finance.

Explore your future prospects
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