Molecular and Cellular Medicine

An option of the molecular biology graduate studies programs at Université de Montréal

The molecular and cellular medicine (MCM) training program is offered exclusively at the IRCM since May 2013. With this option, students benefit from training in molecular biology with a focus on basic research and mechanisms underlying human diseases. Listen to the testimonies of the students who have chosen this path.

 

A global vision of research

With new technologies arising, research projects are becoming more and more specific and sometimes disconnected from today’s medical challenges. Therefore, to quickly move towards personalized medicine, it is essential that new approaches in basic research support the understanding of biomedical issues. 

The MCM option is an innovative Canadian program which offers the next generation of scientists a comprehensive training in basic research, but at the same time, a global vision regarding the study of human diseases. This is possible through the unique environment found at IRCM where both basic and clinical research thrive, state-of-the-art technological equipment is readily available, and academic know-how is held by its members. 

Master's degree

The MCM option is a one-year intensive Master's training, with the option of fast-tracking to a doctorate at the IRCM. 

The MCM option differs from other biomedical research programs in the following ways:

  • One-year Master’s degree (MSc) not requiring a thesis*
  • Two intensive four-month research internships in different IRCM laboratories, giving students a taste of research and allowing them to wait until the PhD level to choose their doctoral project and research director 
  • Bombardier-Molson scholarships** offered to selected students
  • Multidisciplinary training in molecular biology with 14 credits of specialized doctoral preparatory courses
  • Use of the IRCM's multiple technological services, thus providing a basic knowledge of modern biomedical research tools
  • Clinical exposure through discussions with patients and clinical researchers
  • Customized courses offered to small groups of students from around the world.

* Research credits are evaluated through two research internship reports.
** The IRCM offers an admission scholarship for the master's year.

Curriculum and course overview

The MCM option lasts one year (three terms), as a full-time program from September to August. This training requires 45 credits delivered by Université de Montréal: 14 required course credits, 30 laboratory internship credits and 1 research seminar credit. It allows an accelerate passage to a doctorate (PhD), or alternatively, to obtain a Master's degree (M.Sc.).

Since the IRCM is a bilingual environment and the MCM option welcomes international students every year, most of the courses are given in English. However, since this option is offered by Université de Montréal, all assignments and exams can also be written in French. 

 

Admission

Since the MCM option courses begin in the fall semester, recruitment takes place continuously from January to May at the IRCM's Academic Affairs direction. Selected students must also submit an application to the registrar's office of Université de Montréal.

 

Admission requirements

Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science degree in an appropriate option (such as biochemistry, biology, microbiology, chemistry); a Doctor of Medicine degree with a right to practice in Canada or Quebec and/or significant experience in basic research;or  a an equivalent degree.

For applicants from abroad, the equivalence of diplomas and grading systems are evaluated according to guidelines issued by the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies of Université de Montréal.

The selection of applications is based on academic record, experience in biomedical research and motivation to pursue graduate studies.

How to apply

The selection of candidates for the MCM program is done in several stages. Please follow the following procedure for your application:

  1. Fill in this online form. The form must include your resume, university transcripts and a motivation letter (700 words).
  2. Ask a letter of recommendation from someone who can assess your ability to pursue a career in biomedical research. This should be sent by e-mail directly from the author to mcm@ircm.qc.ca.
  3. Selected candidates will be interviewed by the MCM option selection committee.
  4. Selected candidates must then submit an application to the registrar's office of Université de Montréal. Application to certain scholarships may also be required for students outside Quebec. 

 

Deadline

Recruitment takes place continuously from January to May at the IRCM's Academic Affairs department.

The next MCM cohort begins in September. International students are invited to submit their application by the end of March.

 

If you have any questions or require additional information regarding the Molecular and Cellular Medicine option, please contact Jessica Bonneau at the Academic Affairs direction via the following e-mail address: mcm@ircm.qc.ca.

Doctorate degree

The PhD in MCM is a continuation of the MCM Master's program. It also provides new students with multidisciplinary training in molecular biology with a focus on cutting-edge technologies used in the context of basic and translational research. The MCM research themes are mainly focused on the study of human diseases. This program requires choosing a PhD advisor before entering the program.

What sets us apart:

  • In-depth studies in an IRCM research team, integrating strong translational health research concepts
  • Opportunity to participate in some of the specific MCM training activities depending on professors' interest and availability

Courses overview

  • Lectures in molecular biology (BIM 7022) for those who have completed an intensive master's degree in molecular biology (MCM option, Systems Biology option), or have completed a PhD;
  • Lecturesin molecular biology (BIM 7022) and gain 3 to 6 additional credits for new molecular biology students (files will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis)

Admission

Admission requirements

  • Hold a Master of Science degree in an appropriate discipline (such as biochemistry, biology, microbiology, chemistry) or equivalent degree* or a graduate degree without a thesis (for students enrolled in molecular biology);
  • Have obtained a graduate degree (MSc) with a minimum grade-point average of 3.3/4.3. 

* For international students, degree equivalencies and grading systems are evaluated according to the guidelines of the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies of the Université de Montréal.

 

Procedure

To submit your application, please refer to the procedure described on the graduate studies page.

 

If you have any questions or require additional information regarding the Molecular and Cellular Medicine option, please contact Jessica Bonneau at the Academic Affairs direction via the following e-mail address: mcm@ircm.qc.ca.

Curriculum and course overview of MCM Master’s option

The MCM option includes several courses offered as part of the graduate programs in molecular biology at Université de Montréal. Download the curriculum for detailed information on this program.

Curriculum and course overview