Genetics

Overview

Among the questions they investigate are: How are entire genes, chromosomes and genomes passed down from generation to generation? How is the genome packaged in the nucleus, protected by telomeres, and repaired following damage? How is the genome expressed and regulated, and how does such regulation enable the development of different cell types? Which and how genes affect traits or diseases? And how does evolution influence genetic and epigenetic variation? In addition to human cells and tissues, we use different model organisms from three different kingdoms - fungi, plants and animals - both at the level of the whole organism and at the level of the individual cell. During the Genetics teaching program at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem  you will develop skills in problem solving, experiment planning, data analysis, writing and scientific presentation. Our graduates are employed in academia, research laboratories, genetic counseling and treatment, the biotechnology industry in the fields of medicine and agriculture, and more.

Research: 

The most important component in graduate studies is a research project. The topic of the project is determined in coordination between the supervisor and the student. The duration of studies for the degree is two years. In exceptional cases, an extension is possible, with the approval of the head of the teaching program. At the end of the program the student must submit a final thesis for a master's degree as specified in the faculty guidelines. The work will be reviewed by the student’s supervisor and at least one other teacher, who will be appointed by the head of the teaching program. Students who have completed all the courses and wrote the dissertation will be assessed by an oral examination. The examining committee will include at least three examiners: the direct supervisor, the external reviewer of the dissertation and another examiner who participate in all the Master exam committees. The purpose of the exam is to test the student’s in-depth understanding of their research topic and their general knowledge in the field of genetics. Before the oral exam, the two non-regular members of the committee will send the student a question and an article to read. The student will present his or her research followed by questions about the articles. During the exam, the members of the committee will ask questions about both the research and general knowledge of genetics, depending on the topics that will be discussed.