Life Sciences and Technology

The BSc in Life Sciences and Technology at EPFL offers a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum designed to prepare students for advanced research and careers in the rapidly evolving fields of biology, biotechnology, and related disciplines. This program integrates fundamental principles of biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, providing students with a multidisciplinary foundation essential for understanding complex biological systems and innovative technological applications. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and practical laboratory training, students gain hands-on experience in modern techniques used in molecular biology, bioinformatics, genetics, and bioprocess engineering. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific communication skills, equipping graduates to contribute effectively to research teams, biotech companies, and healthcare innovation. Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge projects, interdisciplinary collaborations, and internships within the vibrant research environment at EPFL. The curriculum is structured to foster inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to explore the interface between biology and technology and to develop solutions to pressing biomedical and environmental challenges. With a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, the program also prepares students for postgraduate studies or careers in industry, academia, and research institutions. Graduates of this bachelor’s program will be well-equipped to participate in groundbreaking developments in biotechnology, personalized medicine, synthetic biology, and sustainable biotechnologies, making significant contributions to science and society in an increasingly biotechnological world.

Validation of Orientation requires at least 25 ECTS with Scientific project design in Translational Oncology 5 the same label (A or B) from the “Core courses” and the “Orientations and options” Students must choose at least 3 ECTS in domain C.

• A: Molecular Medicine and Systems Biology
• B: Neurosciences and Neuroengineering
• C: Law or Economics

Students can also opt for a 30 ECTS Minor. Minors recommended with this Master:

• Biocomputing
• Computational Neurosciences
• Management, Technology, Entrepreneurship
• Neuroprosthetics

This program includes an 8-week compulsory internship in industry

Core courses 15

• Cancer Biology I A 5
• Cancer Biology II A 5
• Immunology A 5
• Infection Biology A 5
• Neuroscience I: Molecular Neuroscience and Neurodegeneration B 5
• Neuroscience II - Cellular mechanisms of brain function B 5
• Neuroscience III: Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience B 5

Microscopy, Imaging and Data analysis 7

• Biomicroscopy I 3
• Data Analysis and Model Classification 4
• Fundamentals of Biomedical Imaging 4
• Image Processing I 3

Scientific thinking 5

• Scientific literature analysis in bioengineering 5
• Scientific literature analysis in cell and developmental biology 5
• Scientific literature analysis in computational molecular biology 5
• Scientific literature analysis in molecular and cancer biology 5
• Scientific literature analysis in Neuroscience 5
• Scientific project design in Drug Discovery 5
• Scientific project design in Integrative Neurosciences 5
• Scientific project design in regenerative medicine and diagnostics 5
• Scientific project design in Synthetic Biology (iGEM) 5
• Scientific project design in Translational Neurosciences 5
• Scientific project design in Translational Oncology 5

Orientations and options 49

• Molecular Medicine and System Biology A
• Neurosciences and Neuroengineering B
• Law, Organization and Economics in LST C
• Advanced Analysis I , II 8
• Advanced principles and Application of Systems Biology A 3
• Biological Modeling of Neural Networks B 4
• BioMEMS 2
• Biomicroscopy II 4
• Biomolecular Structure and Mechanics A 4
• Brain Computer interaction B 3
• Chemical Biology - Tools and Methods 3
• Computational Motor Control B 4
• Diffraction Methods in Structural Biology 4
• Dynamical System Theory for engineers A B 4
• Economics of innovation in the biomedical industry C 3
• Fundamentals of biosensors and electronic biochips 3
• Fundamentals of Neuroengineering B 4
• Genomics and Bioinformatics A 4
• Image Processing II 3
• In Silico Neuroscience B 4
• Introduction au droit et à l'éthique en STV C 3
• Introduction à l’informatique visuelle B 4
• Lab Immersion II 8
• Lab Immersion III 8
• Lab immersion academic (outside EPFL) A and B 22
• Lab immersion in industry A and B 22
• Lab methods: Animal Experimentation A 2
• Lab methods: Bioactive compounds screening A 2
• Lab methods: Biosafety C 3
• Lab methods: Flow Cytometry A 2
• Lab methods: Histology A 2
• Lab methods: Proteomics 2
• Modèles stochastiques pour les communications 6
• Molecular Endocrinology A 3
• Multidisciplinary organization of medtechs/biotechs C 3
• Nanobiotechnology and biophysics 3
• New tools and research strategies in personalized medicine A 4
• Nutrition: from molecules to health A 4
• Pattern Classification and Machine Learning 7
• Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics A B 5
• Principles and Applications of Systems Biology A 3
• Semester project in Life Sciences & Technology 12
• Sensorimotor Neuroprosthetics B 4
• Sensors in medical instrumentation 3
• Signal Processing for Functional Brain Imaging B 3
• Single cell genomics 4
• Statistical Physics of Biomacromolecules 4
• Stem Cell Biology and Technology A 3
• Understanding statistics and experimental design 4
• Unsupervised and Reinforcement Learning in Neural Networks B 4
• Other accredited courses max. 10

Lab immersion or Industrial internship 8

• Lab Immersion I 8
• Industrial internship in life sciences 8

• Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree from a reputable university and excellent academic records. The curriculum requires a solid background in sciences and technology, (mathematics, physics, chemistry, signal processing, electronics and electrical systems, computer sciences) biosciences and medical physiology.
• Your resumé (curriculum vitae)
• Copy of your University degree(s) or Bachelor's degree. If you don't have your degree yet, you will bring it to the Registrar's Office upon registration at EPFL*.
• Legalized transcripts from each university you have attended.
• A statement of purpose. See hereunder for a more detailed explanation.
• Three recommendations (except holders of any EPFL Bachelor's degree applying in another field than their original field and except for candidates from another Swiss university applying to a Master in the same field of study as their Bachelor).
  During the electronic application process, you will have to give the details of three referees, who will then be requested to produce recommendation letters for you directly to EPFL. See hereunder for a more detailed explanation.
• Your identity card or passport.
• For foreigners who already live in Switzerland: your residence permit.
• Extra documents such as TOEFL or GRE scores, research publications or other portfolios of your previous work, are welcome but not compulsory. We will only consider documents uploaded in your online application form. (No documents sent by postal mail).
• Application fee CHF 150.

The Master of Science in Life Sciences and Technology at EPFL typically offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for the programme are generally aligned with EPFL’s standard graduate rates, which are quite competitive compared to international standards. Students may be eligible for various scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs provided by EPFL, Swiss government, or private organizations. EPFL offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding students, which may cover partial or full tuition fees. Additionally, there are research assistantships and teaching assistantships available, where students can work within the university to earn a stipend while gaining valuable academic experience. These assistantship positions are competitive and are awarded based on academic performance and research potential.

Students from Switzerland and the European Union may also benefit from government-sponsored loan programs, which provide favorable loan conditions and repayment plans. Non-European students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, such as scholarships offered by their home countries or international organizations. The university also provides guidance and resources to help students identify financial aid opportunities and prepare applications. Furthermore, some students finance their studies through part-time work or internships related to their field of study.

It is important for prospective students to thoroughly research financial options early in the application process and consult the official EPFL website or contact the university’s financial aid office for detailed, current information. The university aims to make education accessible, and thus, offers various financial support mechanisms to reduce economic barriers for qualified students. Overall, financing studies at EPFL’s Life Sciences and Technology programme can be managed through a combination of scholarships, assistantships, government loans, and personal funding, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their academic goals in a research-intensive environment.

The Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences and Technology at ETH Zurich offers students an interdisciplinary education focused on the fundamental principles of the life sciences combined with technological approaches. The program aims to prepare students for careers in research, industry, and academia by providing a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, along with specialized knowledge in areas such as biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology. Students gain practical skills through laboratory work, projects, and internships, enabling them to apply theoretical concepts to real-world problems. The curriculum emphasizes innovation and problem-solving, fostering an understanding of complex biological systems and their technological applications. The program also encourages international exposure and collaboration, often incorporating exchange opportunities and joint projects with industrial partners. Graduates are equipped to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biotech companies, environmental consultancy, and healthcare. ETH Zurich's state-of-the-art facilities and research centers provide an ideal environment for active learning and innovation. The program values interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific excellence, preparing students to contribute to advancements in life sciences and technology that address global challenges. The program duration is three years, and instruction is primarily in English. Students are required to undertake coursework, practical sessions, and a final project to complete their degree. The program's structure promotes critical thinking, scientific rigor, and adaptability, making it highly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving scientific landscape.