Physical Biology of Cells and Cell Interactions

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Deadline: Jul 15, 2024
StudyQA ranking:4156 Duration:2 years
The Master's programme provides students with an understanding of fundamental life processes from cell growth, cell-cell communication and differentiation to hormonal, inflammatory, angiogenic signalling and ageing. These processes are studied in context of the cells' individual tissues and model organisms. The experimental and conceptual approaches of the programme include modern biological, molecular, biochemical, bioinformatical, immunological, and genetic methods, combined with molecular imaging as well as morphological and physical technologies.

Educational organisation

The Master's programme starts with a general introductory course and seminar, aiming to familiarise students with the curriculum, the participating professors, and their research activities. The curriculum consists of six compulsory and three elective modules. In order to allow a disciplinary education, the elective modules may be combined with selective modules from other Master's programmes of the faculty. Within the first year, students attend lectures and seminars in advanced cell biology and choose their elective modules from a variety of courses, e.g. Cell Biology and Physiology of Signal Transfer, Neurophysiology of Sensory Systems, Developmental Neurobiology, Basics and Appliance of Image and Data Analysis in Biology, Physiology and Behaviour, 3-D Cell Culture and Microscopy, Cell Communication, Cell Adhesion and Cell Mobility, Plant Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Function and Evolution of Metabolic Pathways. The second year focuses on current concepts and methods of cell biology along with an introduction to the analysis of scientific literature for the future laboratory research for the Master's thesis. The thesis has to be completed within six months.

Study abroad unit(s)

There are no regulations on study abroad units within the programme. However, study abroad units achieved in the framework of an exchange semester abroad, e.g. within the Erasmus exchange programme or at one of our partner universities are highly appreciated.

Forms of assessment

Exams are required for individual modules. They include written exams and the successful completion of protocols and presentation of papers and posters.

Course objectives

Students will be familiarised with modern concepts and methods of cell biology and physical biology. They will perform in the interdisciplinary scientific environment of the campuses' state-of-the-art laboratories and acquire solid experience in self-dependent, scientific action and analysis. The Master's programme prepares the students for expanding career opportunities, e.g. in bioinformatics, biopharmaceutical research, scientific management, biotechnology, and marketing as well as for PhD programmes or independent advancement in the area of expertise.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills.
German language skills are recommended.
If you are not a native speaker of English, you have to provide proof of sufficient knowledge of English: level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (TOEFL 100 iBT, IELTS 6.5)

Academic requirements

BA in the same or a related subject or at least an equivalent degree from a university of applied sciences in the same or similar subject

Enrolment fees

Goethe University charges an administrative fee of approx. 360 EUR per semester (less than 730 EUR per year). This includes a ticket for public transport. The "magic ticket" entitles you to use buses, trams, and the underground in Frankfurt and the surrounding area. You can even use the regional trains to travel to various other cities in Hesse, e.g. Marburg or Giessen.

Costs of living

The cost of living in Frankfurt depends on personal requirements and lifestyle. However, students should expect minimum expenses of approx. 940 EUR per month. This calculation is based on the following items: 800 EUR for rent, food, clothing, and study materials, around 81 EUR for compulsory but almost comprehensive health insurance, and approx. 59 EUR for the administrative fee (including free public transport).

Job opportunities

In Frankfurt, 44,000 companies and organisations have approx. 464,000 employees on their payrolls. In addition, Frankfurt is the financial centre of Germany, with 350 banks, including the European Central Bank, 150 foreign banks, and the fourth-largest stock exchange in the world. Furthermore, Frankfurt is home to various cultural and research institutions. These are key players in a flourishing economy, offering students and graduates interesting jobs and internships. During your studies, there are plenty of job opportunities either at Goethe University itself (e.g. as a tutor or research assistant) or you may look for jobs and internships elsewhere in the greater Frankfurt area. Job opportunities are particularly interesting for students from abroad, e.g. at the airport and the trade fair. The "Studentenwerk" as well as the Career Services at Goethe University can help you to find a suitable offer. After you graduate, it is comparatively easy to find a job in the greater Frankfurt area, since it is one of the strongest employment regions in Germany. Furthermore, due to new laws, students from non-EU countries may also receive a work permit after graduation.

Funding opportunities within the university

Scholarships are available for applicants with a BSc obtained at a university outside Germany and a strong interest in research.
Please see: http://www.uni-frankfurt.de/masterstip

Arrival support

Integration Programme for Guest Students
Goethe University offers the opportunity of integrating guest students through volunteer host families. You are invited to join this programme that will put you in contact with locals (individuals or families) so you can learn about German culture and life style.

Internationaler Studientreff (IST)
This is a project for international and German students. Consultation hours, "get-togethers", international bar evenings, excursions in and around Frankfurt, and a buddy programme are included!
See: http://www.uni-frankfurt.de/IST

Erasmus Student Network (ESN)
The ESN is also present in Frankfurt and helps international students to get accustomed to life in Frankfurt and Germany. They also organise several "get-together" events like parties, pub crawls, quiz nights, and more.
See: http://unifrankfurt.esngermany.org/

International "Stammtisch"
Each semester, an international "Stammtisch" (a regular group meeting, mostly at a bar or restaurant) will be offered to ERASMUS/DAAD/SOCRATES scholars and German students planning to go abroad or returning from abroad. In a pleasant atmosphere, students can exchange experiences and tips on studying abroad, dealing with student life in Frankfurt, and making new friends.

Services and support for international students

The International Office of Goethe University offers a comprehensive range of advice and services on issues of visa/immigration, financing your studies, social life, and personal matters.
See: http://www.uni-frankfurt.de/38294574?

At the International Study Center (ISZ) at Goethe University, ongoing German language support is available. ISZ offers several options to improve your language proficiency, such as a tandem project (language exchange, e.g. Spanish-German), German language courses (preparatory and continuous), and language training during your academic programme.
Check the website for more information:
http://www.uni-frankfurt.de/43662305

The student union ("AStA", http://asta-frankfurt.de/) provides advice and entertainment. Faith-based organisations offer opportunities for worship and intercultural exchange.
See: http://www.esg-frankfurt.de/
See: http://www.khg-frankfurt.de/

Accommodation

Frankfurt am Main offers a wide variety of accommodation, from university dorms to privately rented apartments. The biggest providers of dorms are the "Studentenwerk" (student services, http://www.studentenwerkfrankfurt.de) and churches.
The 19 dormitories offer more than 1,700 different accommodation units starting from 120 EUR per month for a single room to up to 450 EUR for a family apartment of 45m².
For further information, see: http://www.studentenwerkfrankfurt.de/en/consulting-service/international-students/accommodation/.
We strongly recommend that students contact such organisations as soon as they receive their letter of acceptance to the programme, as these rooms are in high demand.
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