Fernanda

Why did you choose this master’s programme at KTH?

In the last year of my studies in Brazil, as I knew I wanted to follow an industrial career, I got an internship in an In Vitro Diagnostic company, where I worked for three years. In this experience, I realised that the biotechnology market in emerging countries is pretty unexplored. Instead of applying biotechnological tools since the beginning of the market chain, we import raw materials and only apply the biotechnological tools to develop the final product. As a consequence, biotechnological products, especially medical ones, are overpriced and of difficult access for many people.

In order to be able to contribute to changing this scenario, I realised I needed to develop my skills in industrial bioprocesses design and operation, such as cell culture and the application of enzymes as catalysts in bioproduction. That’s when I started looking for master’s programs and found out about the Master in Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology from KTH.

As soon as I started reading about it, I knew it was the perfect choice to help me achieve my goals. It not only has an incredible course curriculum with tracks focused exactly on what I need to learn but also is based in Sweden, one of the countries that invests the most in research and development. And the cherry on top is that this master’s programme has a sustainable approach, which all industries should focus on to guarantee a promising future for the next generations.

Have you chosen a specialisation track within the programme?

As my goal is to develop my skills in bioproduction, especially in medical products, I chose the Cell-Based Process Biotechnology track and some courses from the Enzyme Technology track as well.

I believe that with the advances in science, in general, every day we find new molecules that can be used to treat diseases that were so far untreatable. Using enzymes and cell culture will allow us to industrially produce these biomolecules in larger scales, increasing people's access to quality health products. Also, applying these technologies can shift an animal-based production chain into a more sustainable and effective one, which can impact the health industry and all other sectors.

What do you want to do after graduating?

After I graduate, I want to keep working in the medical industry. I am still not sure if I am going to pursue a PhD degree after I finish my master’s studies. Still, I am certain that I want to apply the expertise gained throughout the Master in Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology in the bioproduction of medical products and be able to contribute to the biotechnological development of my home country.

Whether I choose to pursue a PhD degree or go straight to the market, I am convinced that this master’s programme will have prepared me to face everything that is to come.

What would you like to say to students thinking of choosing KTH for master’s studies?

I believe that choosing KTH for a master’s studies will help you strengthen your skills by building a good theoretical and experimental foundation. The Master in Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology has a very up-to-date course curriculum according to the market’s needs. With the freedom that KTH gives you with your course choices, you will be able to tailor your curriculum in the best way to achieve your goals.

Besides, from what I have seen so far, KTH offers incredible support for international students, which is essential to make us feel that moving to Sweden to pursue a master’s degree is both a wise choice and a safe one. Just as I am excited to begin my journey at KTH, I believe you will feel the same when you see all the opportunities KTH has to offer, and I hope you choose to go on this ride as well because it’s going to be a wild but well worth one!