University master's degrees
University Master's Degree in Cytogenetics and Reproductive Biology

Deciphering the organisation of cellular genome and its transmission to descendants as a tool through which academically and professionally to immerse oneself into the field of embryology and genetic diagnostics

Official Master's Degree in Cytogenetics and Reproductive Biology

Ideal student profile

The master's degree in Cytogenetics and Reproductive Biology is aimed at graduates in Biosciences. Students should have strong analytical skills, a proactive attitude and determination, and should have completed their bachelor's degree studies in Biomedical Sciences, Genetics, Biology or Biotechnology, or their equivalents from other universities.

This master's degree is suitable both for students who wish to go into research and for those interested in clinical practice, in the following areas: Assisted Reproduction in Humans and Animals, Embryology, Genetics of Reproduction, Genetics of Cancer, Clinical Cytogenetics, Evolutionary Cytogenetics and Radiobiology.

Cross-curricular skills

Knowledge

  • Explain the cellular and molecular bases of reproduction in mammals, including the mechanisms involved in gametogenesis, fertilization, embryonic development, and genetic and epigenetic control of the reproductive process.
  • Explain the cellular and molecular bases of genome organization, structure, and functional regulation, relating them to gene expression processes and epigenetic control.
  • Identify the fundamental biological processes involved in the origin and development of human pathologies associated with chromosomal abnormalities, mutations, and genomic variations, in the context of cytogenetics and reproductive biology.
  • Interpret chromosomal changes related to evolutionary processes that explain the mechanisms of speciation and genomic diversity in animals.
  • Identify the genetic and molecular causes of infertility in humans.
  • Analyze the socioeconomic, biomedical, environmental, and cultural progress contributed by research, innovation, and technological development in the field of cytogenetics and reproductive biology.
  • Interpret information from scientific literature using appropriate bibliographic, bioinformatics, and statistical resources to propose, substantiate, and contextualize a research topic within the scope of the Master’s program.

Skills

  • Apply protocols for cellular, molecular, and diagnostic analysis in the field of cytogenetics and reproductive biology, using quality and safety criteria.
  • Use techniques for cell culture, manipulation, and characterization typical of cytogenetics and reproductive biology laboratories.
  • Organize activities in research and clinical laboratories within the master’s area of knowledge, ensuring compliance with quality, biosafety, and traceability standards.
  • Analyze results derived from research activity in cytogenetics, reproductive biology, and related fields, interpreting them and drawing well-founded conclusions.
  • Apply bioinformatics and biostatistics resources for the processing, analysis, and interpretation of experimental and clinical data in the field of cytogenetics and reproductive biology.
  • Examine relevant clinical cases in cytogenetics and reproductive biology, based on diagnostic data, scientific evidence, and clinical context, formulating critical judgments.
  • Resolve situations of scientific malpractice in the fields of cytogenetics and reproductive biology, applying principles of integrity and transparency.
  • Apply current legislation and regulations in professional practice in the fields of genetics, applied cytogenetics, and reproductive biology.
  • Interpret possible ethical dilemmas associated with professional practice and research in genetics, applied cytogenetics, and human reproduction.
  • Demonstrate advanced communication skills, both oral and written, for presenting results, scientific reports, and academic work to specialized and non-specialized audiences.

Competences

  • Propose appropriate diagnoses and prognoses in clinical cases of cytogenetic and reproductive anomalies, based on the integration of experimental, clinical, and molecular data.
  • Plan the management of research and clinical laboratories in cytogenetics and reproductive biology, applying quality, sustainability, and biosafety criteria.
  • Design scientific experiments in the field of cytogenetics and reproductive biology, applying advanced experimental methodologies and data analysis tools.
  • Integrate effectively into multidisciplinary teams within the master’s area of knowledge and in diverse cultural and scientific environments, fostering an open collaborative climate and teamwork.
  • Demonstrate ethical and professional responsibility in the development of projects in the master’s area of knowledge, respecting fundamental rights, diversity, gender equality, and democratic values, in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Integrate knowledge and skills acquired throughout the master’s program to prepare, defend, and communicate a well-founded academic work, demonstrating autonomy, rigor, and critical thinking.