Biophysics

The aim of the Master's programme in Biophysics is to provide a comprehensive education and hands-on research in modern biophysics, to prepare students for the interdisciplinary nature of modern-day life sciences and to train them in quantitative thinking and in state-of-the-art experimental techniques close to current research.

Students will deepen their previous knowledge of biophysics, chemistry and biochemistry, and will be supported in carrying out their first independent research project.
Our interdisciplinary research environment is based on strong collaborations between physics, chemistry, biology and medicine. Hence, students may choose Master's courses from a wide field of subjects such as: cellular biophysics, biomacromolecules, biological chemistry, bioanalytics, pharmaceutical biotechnology, molecular cell biology, neurobiology, cellular and molecular biology, quantum biology, nanomaterials, polymer physics.

MSc Biophysics is a research-oriented programme addressed to motivated students with a strong interest both in physics and biology and in their application.

Educational organisation

The Master's programme has a modular structure; each student can configure the study plan according to personal preferences and inclinations.

The first two semesters focus on core lectures in biophysics, advanced seminars and lab courses to be combined with elective courses from different areas of life sciences. In the first year, experiments chosen from the advanced physics lab and the biophysics lab are carried out in small groups. Obligatory core lectures in biophysics allow students to gain a deeper understanding of the subject, while elective courses in biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, or even in mathematics and statistics offer more insight into special topics.

In the second year, students focus more on their research projects and the Master's thesis. Two research projects have to be carried out in two different research groups or institutes. The final semester is reserved for the Master's thesis, which is research-oriented and has a duration of six months.

Study abroad unit(s)

Students may participate in programmes at partner universities.

Forms of assessment

Written or oral final exam. For advanced seminars and labs, students are required to give an oral presentation and submit a written report.
Altogether, the programme comprises 60 ECTS points for coursework, 30 ECTS points for the research projects and 30 ECTS points for the Master's thesis.

Course objectives

The Master of Science in Biophysics will enable graduates to work in interdisciplinary research and development areas as demanded by laboratories in both academia and industry.
The programme will thoroughly train students in quantitative thinking and in using modern experimental techniques and instrumentation.
Graduates will learn to study and work independently and will reach a significant level of social and intercultural competence.

Language requirements

An internationally recognised certification of English language proficiency (TOEFL 88 internet-based test, 570 paper-based test, 215 computer-based test; IELTS 6.5) is required from all applicants, except for native speakers of English or applicants whose only language of instruction during their first degree programme was English.

Academic requirements

• Proof of a Bachelor's degree with above-average examination results in either physics, econophysics, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular medicine, biotechnology or any equivalent study course
• Proof of English knowledge: TOEFL (score of at least 88 for the internet-based test or equivalent) or IELTS (score of 6.5), except for native speakers of English or applicants whose only language of instruction during their first degree programme was English
• Curriculum vitae
• Letter of motivation
• Proof of professional/vocational training and/or practical work experience or any other previous training (internships)

Enrolment fees

158.50 EUR

Costs of living

Approx. 700 EUR including accommodation, local transport, health insurance and food

Job opportunities

After the first semester, some student jobs are available. They are awarded according to personal qualifications, primarily in connection with specific research projects.

Arrival support

• Pick-up service from the train or bus station
• Support with moving into the student residence (getting the key to your room, contacting the caretaker)
• Assistance with filling out necessary forms (enrolment at university, health insurance, residence permit, bank account, etc.)

Services and support for international students

Students enrolled in our programme can benefit from modern infrastructure and support services such as:

• orientation programme
• accommodation service
• language centre
• international office
• buddy and assistance programme

Accommodation

Students admitted to the programme have the opportunity to have a room reserved in one of the student residences. The university has several residences (all within a bus ride or walking distance from campus) featuring fully furnished rooms for one person and a kitchen and bathroom that are shared with a few other students.