Molecular and Biological Chemistry

The Bachelor's Degree Programme in Molecular and Biological Chemistry at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for careers in modern chemical and biological sciences. This program provides a robust foundation in fundamental principles of chemistry and biology, integrating both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills. Students will explore the structure, function, and interactions of biomolecules, enzymes, and metabolic pathways, gaining insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying life processes. The curriculum emphasizes experimental techniques, analytical methods, and data analysis, equipping graduates with the competencies required for research, industry, or further academic pursuits. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, and project work, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for innovation in fields such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental sciences, and materials science. The program also encourages interdisciplinary learning, fostering collaborations across chemistry, biology, and related disciplines to address complex scientific challenges. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, providing a conducive environment for hands-on experience. The programme includes opportunities for internships and collaborative projects with industry partners, enhancing employability and practical understanding of real-world applications. Graduates will be well-positioned to pursue advanced studies, including Master's and Ph.D. programmes, or to embark on careers in research, development, quality control, or science communication. The Faculty of Basic Sciences at ETH Lausanne is committed to excellence in teaching and research, ensuring students receive a high-quality education that combines theoretical rigor with practical relevance. This programme is ideal for students passionate about understanding the molecular basis of biological systems and seeking to contribute to scientific advancements that improve health, sustainability, and technological progress. With a curriculum designed to be adaptable to emerging scientific trends and innovations, the Bachelor's in Molecular and Biological Chemistry prepares its graduates to be leaders and innovators in the molecular sciences.

Students must choose 3 modules in Specialization modules I and 12 ECTS in Specialization modules II.

Students can opt for a 30 ECTS Minor instead of the research internship preferably in:

• Management, Technology and Entrepreneurship
• Science, Technology and Area Studies 

Specialization modules I 24

Bioanalytical chemistry

• Bioanalytics and analytical sensors 3
• Mass spectrometry 3
• Methodology in instrumental chromatography 2

Biological chemistry & biophysics

• Cellular signalling 2
• Chemical biology 3
• Nanobiotechnology and biophysics 3

Computational chemistry

• Applied molecular quantum chemistry 4
• Computational methods in molecular quantum mechanics 4

Inorganic chemistry

• Catalysis for energy production 2
• Catalyst design for synthesis 3
• Inorganic reactivity 3

Organic chemistry

• Physical and computational organic chemistry 2
• Structure and reactivity 3
• Total synthesis of natural products 3

Physical chemistry

• Advanced NMR and imaging 3
• Electronic spectroscopy 3
• Photochemistry II 2

Specialization modules II 12

• Risk management 2

Molecular and supramolecular science

• Artificial photosynthesis 2
• Catalytic asymmetric reactions in organic chemistry 2
• Chemistry of small biological molecules 2
• Coordination chemistry and reactivity of f elements
• Pharmacological chemistry 2
• Supramolecular chemistry 2

Physical and analytical chemistry

• Laboratory information management system (LIMS) 2
• Molecular quantum dynamics 2
• Photomedicine 2

Material science

• Advanced materials for photovoltaics and lighting 2
• Analysis of ancient materials and their degradation 2
• Introduction to nanomaterials 2
• Organic electronic materials 3
• Physical chemistry of polymeric materials 3
• Polymer chemistry and macromolecular engineering 3

Food science

• Chimie des denrées alimentaires 2
• Chemistry of food processes 2

Projects 24

• Interdisciplinary / disciplinary project 6
• Project in molecular sciences 12
• Project in human and social sciences 6

Research internship 30

• Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree from a reputable university in chemistry and excellent academic results.
• 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.

Finance for the Molecular and Biological Chemistry program at EPFL is primarily composed of a combination of university grants, government funding, and scholarships. Students enrolled in this program benefit from the Swiss higher education funding system, which includes subsidized tuition fees and various financial aid options. Tuition fees at EPFL are comparatively moderate, and the university offers transparent information regarding costs, which helps students in planning their finances efficiently. Eligible students may apply for government or institutional scholarships aimed at supporting international and Swiss students, covering part or all of their tuition fees, living expenses, or both. Additionally, students can seek private scholarships from various foundations or organizations committed to supporting studies in science and technology fields. Part-time work opportunities on or around the EPFL campus are accessible and provide a supplementary source of income for students who wish to offset living expenses. The Swiss student visa regulations also facilitate part-time employment for international students, thus enhancing their capacity to finance their education independently. Furthermore, EPFL actively encourages students to secure research assistantships or teaching assistantships within the university, which often include a stipend or salary, while also providing valuable academic and professional experience. On completion, students often benefit from the strong network of alumni and industry connections fostered by EPFL, which can support their career advancement and financial stability in the future. The university’s reputation and partnerships with industry leaders play a crucial role in providing high employability prospects, which in turn justify the initial financial investment in the education. Overall, the financial landscape for students in this program is well-structured, offering multiple pathways for funding and support, ensuring that financial considerations do not hinder students’ access to high-quality education at EPFL.

The Molecular and Biological Chemistry program at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) offers an in-depth curriculum designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the fields of chemistry and molecular biology. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in general chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, and analytical techniques, combined with specialized courses in molecular biology, biochemistry, and structural biology. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, research projects, and collaborations with leading scientists in the field. The program is structured to foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and innovative approaches to complex scientific challenges. Students are encouraged to participate in internships and research exchanges to develop practical skills and gain international exposure. The curriculum also integrates modern technological tools, computational methods, and experimental techniques that are vital for contemporary research in chemistry and molecular biology. Graduates from this program are prepared for careers in academia, pharmaceutical industries, biotechnology companies, and research laboratories. The program also provides a pathway for those interested in pursuing advanced degrees, such as Master’s and PhDs, in related fields. The interdisciplinary approach of the program ensures that students are well-versed in both theoretical concepts and practical applications, making them highly competitive in the global scientific community. EPFL’s modern facilities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and close ties with industry partners support a rich learning environment that encourages innovation and discovery. The program is designed to meet international standards of higher education and aims to produce graduates who are capable of addressing current scientific challenges with creativity and rigor.