Master of Science in Health Sciences - Specialization in Genomic & Molecular Epidemiology

The major thrust of research in genomic & molecular epidemiology in the next ten years will be the identification of predisposing genes in complex diseases and environmental factors. This may ultimately lead to more targeted surveillance and improved clinical care.

Genomic & molecular epidemiology focuses on the uses of genomic, molecular, and epidemiological research in identifying the possible familial and hereditary factors underlying the origins and manifestations of human disease. The cause of most chronic diseases -including cancer, coronary artery disease, diabetes, hypertension, and psychiatric disorders- may lie in the interactions between environmental factors and genetic susceptibility. Genomic & molecular epidemiology helps optimize etiological studies through an integrated approach that draws on the methodologies of epidemiology, biostatistics, genetics, and molecular biology.

The objective of the genomic & molecular epidemiology programme is to prepare candidates for epidemiological research in the areas of genetic determinants of diseases and of genetic risk assessment and seeks to train candidates in these specific fields or to prepare them for executive/advisory positions in the area of public health, or health policy. The genomic & molecular epidemiology programme is a mix of general subjects, such as study design and statistical data analysis, and subjects tailored with specific genomic & molecular epidemiology research and analytical methods.

Netherlands Institute for Health Sciences (NIHES) is an international academic research institute that provides all courses and programmes in English.

Erasmus University Rotterdam is the founding organisation of the Netherlands Institute for Health Sciences (NIHES). NIHES was established in 1992 to further improve scientific research on determinants of diseases and health, the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare and services, and the theory and methods of health sciences. NIHES is a centre for quantitative research that provides graduate and postgraduate education in medicine and health sciences. The Institute also provides comprehensive research training for health professionals through the large array of courses in various disciplines. The programmes combine theoretical training and practical research training to prepare participants for research, executive and advisory positions. NIHES holds a very strong international position. It cooperates with a global network of leading research centres in Europe, Asia, Latin America and the USA.