Biotechnology and Bioengineering

The Bachelor’s program in Biotechnology and Bioengineering at ETH Zurich offers students an exceptional opportunity to explore the interdisciplinary fields of biology, engineering, and technology. Designed to prepare graduates for cutting-edge careers in research, development, and industry, this program emphasizes both foundational sciences and innovative engineering principles. Throughout the three-year curriculum, students gain comprehensive knowledge in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, and microbiology, alongside essential engineering skills such as process design, automation, and systems integration. The program encourages a hands-on approach through laboratory work, projects, and internships, allowing students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world challenges. Advanced courses cover areas like bioprocess engineering, synthetic biology, bioinformatics, and biomedical technology, equipping students with the tools needed to develop new technologies and improve existing biological systems. The program is structured to foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and coding proficiency, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in biotechnology industries, pharmaceutical companies, or research institutions. Collaborations with national and international partners provide opportunities for internships and research projects, enhancing practical experience and professional networks. ETH Zurich’s strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability ensures that graduates are equipped to contribute to the development of environmentally friendly and ethically responsible biotechnological solutions. Upon graduation, students earn a Bachelor of Science degree, opening pathways to graduate studies or direct entry into the biotechnology sector. With a focus on both scientific rigor and engineering expertise, the program aims to cultivate versatile professionals capable of addressing global challenges in health, agriculture, and the environment through pioneering biotechnological advances.

Core courses

• Animal models in Biomedical research 
• Engineering of musculoskeletal system and rehabilitation
• Mechanisms of cell motility
• Monthly IBI-EDBB Mini-symposia   
• Responsible Conduct in Biomedical Research 
• Scientific writing for biomedical articles 
• Training Rotation (EDBB)  
• Summer school on healthcare diagnostics 
• BIO-664 'Responsible Conduct in Biomedical Research' (1 ECTS)
• 'Introduction to practical aspects of animal experimentation and animal facilities' (1 ECTS)

• The application process includes an online candidature completed with 3 reference letters and academic records.
• All required documents, including the referee evaluations, must be received before the application deadline (April 15th or November 1st). Therefore, please contact your 3 referees enough in advance before the application deadline and validate your application well before the deadline. In doing so, request letters are automatically sent to them via email. 

STEP 1 - EDBB review commission

The applications will be reviewed by the EDBB Program Commission members on a competitive basis. Some applications will be rejected at this stage.

STEP 2 - EDBB SKYPE pre-selection

Due to the increasing number of candidatures, a second selection will take place and the candidates will be SKYPE interviewed before being invited to a personal interview or to our Hiring Days. A number of applications will be rejected at this stage.

STEP 3 - Personal interviews & matching you with a host lab

Should your application get a first positive evaluation from the PhD Program Commission and a second positive evaluation from your Skype interview, you will receive an invitation to come to the EPFL for personal interviews or to participate in a joint selection process (Hiring Days) taking place approx. 10-12 weeks after the application deadline on the EPFL campus.

During hiring sessions where the EDBB Program participates in joint Hiring Days, the applicants have the opportunity to present their Master work in front of a review panel that will decide on the final acceptance into the program. Our lab heads hiring PhD candidates will present their labs and the project for which they have an open position. A wonderful opportunity to meet other EPFL PhD students.

During hiring sessions where the EDBB Program decides that individual interviews will be conducted by the hiring lab heads, you will also present your Master work and they will recommend you to the EDBB Committee that will make a final decision (admission into the program or rejection).

In order to facilitate the matching process, we STRONGLY recommend that you contact by email the head of the lab(s) you are interested in before or while you apply. You will find some keywords about the research areas of our affiliated thesis directors on http://phd.epfl.ch/EDBB_Program_Members 

The candidates will be informed of the decisions shortly after the Hiring Days. Candidates who have successfully passed the 3 selection steps and been matched with a host lab will be admitted. Those who have not would be rejected. A minority may be deemed admissible into the program provided that they find a host lab within a few months.

Who is eligible

Eligible candidates must have a Masters Degree or equivalent with at least 6 months of research experience. Candidates with a four-year Bachelors Degree may be considered as well (depending on the undergraduate institution and performance there); these students may be admitted with special requirements, depending on their background.

You can indicate on your application form which labs and/or Professors you are interested in. Furthermore, please feel free if you'd like to contact the Professor(s) of interest as well to see directly with them if they have any open positions, as it's always good to have had a personal contact.

We recommend that EDBB candidates provide us with the results of their GRE test.

Much more than an English test, the general GRE test evaluates your general skills. This is helpful to the evaluators as without it, it is difficult to have a proper basis for comparison in the selection process. If you are NOT planning on taking the GRE, please mention this in your application, as well as the reason for this.
The TOEFL test is highly recommended for students who have not followed more than three years of study in English.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Biotechnology and Bioengineering program at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) is primarily structured around a combination of tuition fees, scholarships, and financial aid options designed to support students throughout their studies. As a leading institution in technological and scientific education, EPFL offers comprehensive support schemes to ensure that talented students from diverse backgrounds can pursue their academic goals without financial hardship.

Tuition fees for the program are set according to the regulations governing international and domestic students, with annual fees generally reflecting the Swiss federal and cantonal standards. For master's level programs like Biotechnology and Bioengineering, the tuition fees are typically around CHF 1,300 per semester for Swiss and EU/EFTA students and may be higher for students from other countries, but specific figures should be verified via official sources for the year of admission. EPFL also provides various fee reductions and exemptions under certain conditions, particularly for students demonstrating financial need or academic excellence.

In addition to tuition fees, students are encouraged to apply for a range of scholarships, both from the university itself and external funding bodies. The EPFL Excellence Fellowships are highly competitive awards granted to outstanding students, offering full or partial financial support combined with research and project opportunities. External organizations, governmental agencies, and international bodies also offer scholarships and grants targeted at students pursuing studies in engineering and biosciences, some of which are based on merit, need, or nationality.

Furthermore, students may access loans, stipends, or part-time work opportunities to supplement their income. EPFL has agreements with several Swiss cantonal or national institutions to facilitate research assistantships, internships, or teaching assistant roles, which not only provide financial remuneration but also valuable practical experience.

International students are often eligible for specific financial aid packages tailored to support their integration and academic success in Switzerland. The university's Financial Aid Office provides detailed guidance and application procedures for these schemes, emphasizing the importance of early planning and documentation.

Overall, the financing of the Biotechnology and Bioengineering program at EPFL is designed to be comprehensive, combining institutional funding, scholarships, and employment opportunities to reduce financial barriers and promote access to top-tier education in biosciences and engineering.

The Master of Science in Biotechnology and Bioengineering at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for advanced careers in the rapidly evolving fields of biotechnology and bioengineering. This programme emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating principles from biology, chemistry, engineering, and physical sciences to develop innovative solutions for health, agriculture, and industry. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, enabling hands-on experience in areas such as genetic engineering, bioprocess development, synthetic biology, and biomedical technologies. The programme is structured to include coursework, laboratory work, and a research thesis, fostering both theoretical understanding and practical skills. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to engage in cutting-edge research projects, often collaborating with industry partners and research institutions, providing valuable real-world insights. The programme aims to equip graduates with a strong foundation in molecular biology, systems biology, and bioprocess engineering, alongside competencies in data analysis, bioinformatics, and regulatory aspects of biotech products. Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths, including research and development, quality control, regulatory affairs, and entrepreneurship within biotech companies or research institutes. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect technological advances and market needs, ensuring students gain relevant and up-to-date knowledge. Admission to this programme typically requires a bachelor's degree in life sciences, engineering, or a related field, along with proficiency in English. The programme's international orientation and collaborative environment foster a global perspective, essential for careers in biotechnology and bioengineering industries worldwide. Post-graduation, students have opportunities to pursue doctoral research or enter professional roles in academia, industry, and healthcare sectors. The EPFL's strong network of alumni and industry partners provides valuable support for internships, employment, and ongoing collaboration. Overall, the Master of Science in Biotechnology and Bioengineering at EPFL offers a rigorous and innovative education, preparing students to contribute to scientific advancements and technological innovations in the life sciences.