Biodiversity, Master 1 subject

• Which are the dynamic processes that underlie the evolution of biological diversity?
• Can state-of-the art methods be used to verify antiquated concepts of animal, fungi and plant taxonomy, phylogeny and classification?
• How can biodiversity be effectively recorded on the micro-organism level? Which role do micro-organisms play in the complex ecosystem?
• How can ecosystem functions and biodiversity be efficiently analysed in an era of climate change and environmental degradation?
• In what way can we share the generated knowledge with society in a way that appeals to our target group (Citizen Science)?

 You not only learn how the biological environment works, but also how to positively influence it in the best possible way.

Franziska Fuchs

Full interview

What made you choose this degree programme?

After completing my bachelor's degree in biology, I wanted to continue my studies in ecology because I am interested in how our biological environment works. I found the concept of the Biodiversity Master's programme, which allows students to attend courses at two universities, exciting and convincing. Although I was a little concerned about the long compulsory internship at first, it proved to be very useful and, in retrospect, gave me a lot of practical experience and guidance. Overall, I am very happy that I chose the Biodiversity Master's programme.

In which respect have or haven’t your expectations been fulfilled?

My expectations were met particularly in the sense that, after the first semester, I had a lot of freedom to set my own academic priorities. At the same time, however, it was also challenging to decide between the multitude of exciting topics. What I had not expected was that the module selection would vary greatly from semester to semester – this can make it difficult to plan your studies and requires a certain amount of flexibility.

Which aspect of your degree programme do you enjoy most?

What I enjoy most is combining theoretical knowledge with practical application. You not only learn how the biological environment works, but also how to positively influence it in the best possible way. The excursions in particular were always a highlight. I also enjoyed the discussions in the seminars, which opened up new perspectives for me. The small course groups facilitate intensive and personal exchange. That's really beneficial.

What has been your biggest challenge to date?

Time management in the first semester. Initially, it seemed overwhelming, but after two to three weeks, I found a good rhythm.

What would you like to become after completing your degree?

I recently started working at an environmental planning office, which I am very happy about. However, I can also imagine working at a biological station in the future, as I find the combination of nature conservation practice and research very appealing. If the opportunity arises, I would also consider pursuing a doctorate. In general, I am open to whatever comes my way. The subject opens up so many exciting career fields that I am thrilled to see where my path will take me. 

Which advice would you like to give to students who consider enrolling in this degree programme?

Anyone with a general interest in biodiversity issues is in good hands here. Don't be afraid to ask questions and discuss things. You really learn a lot that way. Good time management and a well-organised calendar also help. 

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A big highlight was my research internship, which I was able to complete in Norway. This experience was particularly valuable for me - both professionally and personally.

Nicole Ellen Wells

Full interview

What made you choose this degree programme?

Biodiversity is a topic of increasing importance, which is now also increasingly recognised by the public. However, only what is known can be protected - which is why there is still a great need for research into the diversity of species, habitats and genes. It is equally important to monitor the human impact on biodiversity on both a local and global level in the long term. After an introductory first semester with basic lectures and seminars, the Master's degree programme in Biodiversity offers students the opportunity to design their further studies flexibly. You can choose from a wide range of semester-long and block courses. This is concluded by a research internship, followed by the Master's thesis. Students have the opportunity to specialise in a particular area of biodiversity research at an early stage - be it field ecology, bioinformatics or molecular biology. The integrated internship also provides valuable insights into possible career fields or offers the chance to gain experience at other universities in Germany and abroad.

In which respect have or haven’t your expectations been fulfilled?

In fact, the degree programme offered the opportunity to specialise early on and get to know different areas of biodiversity research. Even though the range of elective courses in my year was somewhat smaller than in previous years and the selection was therefore not quite as extensive as I had hoped, I experienced the courses I took as very enriching. They gave me exciting insights into new areas of research and deepened my interest in certain topics. A big highlight was my research internship, which I was able to complete in Norway. This time not only taught me a lot in terms of my subject, but also showed me how enriching working at an international university can be - both academically and personally.

Which aspect of your degree programme do you enjoy most?

I enjoyed the practical elective courses in the second semester and my internship abroad in the third semester the most. In both, I was able to gain valuable experience in laboratory work and practical research. Simultaneously, I had the opportunity to discover new fields of research and deepen my understanding of different working methods in biodiversity research.

What has been your biggest challenge to date?

The biggest challenge was getting rid of the exam nerves I had developed in the first semester and rediscovering my enjoyment of studying and science.

What would you like to become after completing your degree?

My goal was and is to become a scientist. I am particularly interested in aquatic parasites and the behaviour of animals under the influence of stressors.

Which advice would you like to give to students who consider enrolling in this degree programme?

My tip for future students: Find out early about the elective courses that are offered in the second semester! It is also worth bearing in mind that you can also have a certain number of excursion days recognised as an elective course. Take advantage of these opportunities to get to know different fields of research and working groups in Bochum and Essen - this has personally helped me a lot to discover my own interests and connect with people. I can also highly recommend completing the internship abroad in the third semester. This experience was particularly valuable for me - both professionally and personally. Programmes such as BAföG or ERASMUS+ can be a great help when it comes to funding.