Learn more about our Thesis and Non-Thesis programs by viewing the recording of our 2025 online information session.
This new concentration option is available within the Master's (thesis) program beginning with Fall 2026 admissions!
Synthetic Biology is a rapidly growing interdisciplinary field focused on creating new biological molecules, devices, and systems, as well as repurposing existing ones for beneficial applications in gene therapies, sustainable materials, and food production. Grounded in principles of standardization, abstraction, and modularity, it applies the Design-Build-Test-Learn engineering cycle to address long-standing biological challenges.
Interdisciplinary
The field integrates knowledge across sectors such as natural sciences and technology, health, and social sciences, aligning closely with McGill’s strategic priorities in sustainable materials and technologies, biomedical advancement, biological system exploration, and the impact of digital-age technologies.
Socioeconomic Impact Forecast
The field is expected to experience exponential growth, with a projected socioeconomic impact of 3.6 trillion dollars annually by 2030–2040.
About the Concentration
This new concentration, within the M.Sc. thesis program, will train students in this highly interdisciplinary field in topics ranging from engineering, computation, health, life sciences, biotechnology, plant sciences, to ethics.
Expand Your Career Opportunities
With expanding career opportunities in academia, industry, and government, this concentration is of interest to a wide range of potential applicants and produces specialists, expanding their employability beyond our main M.Sc. program.
More details will be posted soon.