Message from the Department Head

Recent decades have witnessed a revolution in the life sciences. New biotechnological wonders have sprung into existence and impacted profoundly on individuals and communities around the globe. From advances in sustainable agriculture and environmental protection to medical marvels like gene therapy, smart diagnostics and assisted reproductive technology to breakthroughs in organic chemistry and pharmacology, biotechnology is changing the way we live our lives.

The biotechnology curriculum at Jerusalem Multidisciplinary College (JMC) addresses many developing fields of biotechnology, including molecular biology, drug design and pharmacogenomics, DNA analysis, protein activity guided modeling, bioinformatics, microbiology, molecular genetics and immunology.

The great career potential of biotechnology is reflected in various industries' efforts to develop new products from emerging technologies. A vast amount of biological knowledge, particularly in the field of molecular biology, has been generated in recent years. But despite the success in accumulating this raw data, there remains a desperate need for more trained professionals to apply this knowledge. Israel, a world leader in biotechnology research and industry, has particular need of such experts. In response to this need, the Jerusalem Multidisciplinary College (JMC) B.Sc. in Biotechnology program is designed to prepare its graduates equally for advancement in academia and/or direct integration into the nation's growing biotech sector.

We aim to cultivate a new generation of Biotechnology researchers by providing them with a fundamental and deep scientific basis, as well as advanced training in genetic engineering, bioinformatics, biostatistics, biotechnology production, and pharmaceutical development. Our goal is for our graduates to become leading researchers, whether pursuing advanced degrees in academia or joining cutting-edge teams in the biotech industry.

Dr. Danny Zeevi
Head of Department
dzeevi@jmc.ac.il

 

Areas of activity

Our department’s curriculum is structured to ensure a natural progression from fundamental sciences to advanced biotechnology applications. In the first year, students build a strong foundation in Chemistry, Physics, Math, basic Biology, and essential lab skills. During the second year, they delve deeper into various biological fields—such as cell biology, molecular biology, and immunology—while also learning research methods, statistics, programming, bioinformatics, and basic biotechnology. The final year focuses on specialized biotechnology subjects across multiple sectors, from pharmaceuticals to agriculture, and culminates in a comprehensive research project that serves as a stepping stone toward a master’s degree. Beyond coursework, students benefit from workshops, seminars by industry experts, and opportunities for hands-on research in collaboration with external partners.

Career Opportunities

Around 90% of our graduates continue in the field of biotechnology: about half pursue a master’s degree, while approximately 40% join the thriving Israeli biotech industry, typically in R&D roles. Some secure positions in medical laboratories at hospitals and HMOs, and others transition into roles within the public sector.

What’s New

 

International Activities

Starting in 2025, we aim to participate in the IGEM synthetic biology competition. A selected group of final-year students, guided by faculty, will develop a biotech startup within our college, progressing from the idea stage through securing funding and ultimately creating a proof-of-concept synthetic biology product.