What Margareth says about the Master’s in Molecular Biology, Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology

Margareth Sidarta from Indonesia

Why did you choose Lund University?

"I was recommended Lund University by a friend who had studied a Bachelor’s in Biotechnology in my home country and then came to Lund for a Master’s. In Indonesia, biotechnology is still a fairly new area and only a few universities offer the subject, but in Sweden it’s been well-established for some 20 years. I found the Master’s in Molecular Genetics and Biology programme at Lund, which was the ideal fit for my interests."
 
How do you find the learning environment?

"There are more discussion and presentations in the class than I experienced in my previous studies. The lecturers are open for questions and it is appreciated if you ask questions. By asking questions and sharing experience together, we learn a lot.

We study just one course at a time and I’m studying just two courses per semester. You get to go very deep into a subject within each course and you learn a lot.

The facilities are very good and Lund University has many sophisticated machines needed for research activities. I also have excellent access to paid journals."
 
What kind of research collaboration have you experienced?

"In one of my courses we were divided into small groups and participated in a research project led by a professor. Through this I gained many practical skills, good research experience and new inspiration – especially as the project I was involved in was on a similar topic to my own interests, but with a different approach."
 
What is the class dynamic like?

"In my programme there are 17 students from countries including Sweden, the UK, India, China, Nigeria, Italy, Germany, Syria, Spain and Norway. We all have different academic and cultural backgrounds and have a lot of discussions, sharing our experiences – we learn so much."
 
What is it like to be an international student in the city of Lund?

"Coming to Lund University has been an opportunity to make international friends – it’s rare to meet international student in Indonesia, so this has been really exciting for me.

Everyone I’ve met here is open and kind and understands we have different cultures. People are very kind, although a little shy. The city is peaceful and offers a good environment for study."
 
What is your advice to prospective students interested in Molecular Biology?

"If you are interested in molecular biology, you can consider Lund University because they have a lot of nice facilities with experienced lecturers. The Professors are very open to sharing their experience and to facilitating your own research and studies.

I recommend Lund University – I love the environment and the atmosphere in which to study."