M1 International Track in France, Site Orsay

The Master’s program builds four essential competencies:

• Scientific Approach: design and conduct research projects, develop innovative ideas, and analyze data responsibly.
• Expertise
• - Acquire specialized knowledge in your field and at the interface of multiple disciplines.
• - Continuously update knowledge and stay informed about current research.
• - Synthesize scientific literature and master new technological tools independently.
• Scientific Communication: present and discuss results clearly in English or French, using the right tools for reports, presentations, and publications.
• Professional Skills: work independently and in teams, interact with diverse partners, plan effectively, and act ethically.

Outcomes: gain a research-driven mindset, transferable skills, and international experience to prepare for PhD programs, research careers, or roles in life sciences and health.

We offer an innovative Master’s program designed to provide you with a solid and broad-based foundation in Life Sciences and Health, while preparing you for research careers and international opportunities. Entirely taught in English during the first year (Master 1), our program welcomes both international and national students who wish to experience a global academic environment on a world-class and highly competitive campus in Europe.

The primary aim of the ITF is to give you strong disciplinary knowledge across key areas of modern biology while fostering the ability to analyze scientific literature, design and carry out research projects, and tackle concrete biological questions. Through a carefully designed curriculum featuring a Major to deepen your expertise, elective courses to broaden your perspective, and a dedicated Research Training block, you will progressively develop the core competencies, preparing you to further strengthen them and move toward expert proficiency in Master 2.

The ITF program at the Orsay site is specifically tailored for students planning to pursue a Master 2 specialization in fields such as microbiology, neuroscience, and molecular and cellular biology. It offers a broad foundation that also encompasses areas like cancer biology, stem cell research, and cutting-edge biotechnologies.

Flexibility is a key feature of the program. A wide range of electives and the possibility to personalize your pathway allow you to adapt the curriculum to your interests and career goals. An intensive internship provides valuable hands-on experience and strengthens both theoretical understanding and practical abilities in your chosen field.

Beyond scientific training, the ITF offers you an immersive international experience that promotes personal growth and professional development. Working and studying in a multicultural environment helps students cultivate transferable skills such as adaptability, teamwork, resilience, and cross-cultural awareness—qualities increasingly sought after by employers worldwide. Graduates benefit from a unique profile that combines advanced scientific expertise with international exposure, making them highly competitive for PhD programs, research positions, and careers across the life sciences and health sectors.

Whether you are an international student seeking a high-level entry into French Master programs or a French student eager to broaden your horizons, the ITF provides a research-driven education, a stimulating environment, and the freedom to design a pathway that matches your ambitions.