This Master's programme takes you to the nanoscale, where modern biology and cutting‑edge technology meet. At the heart of the course is the idea that proteins and other cellular components are natural nanomachines: tiny, highly efficient systems encoded by genetic information. You will learn how to study these biological machines and apply engineering principles to design, modify and harness them for practical use.
The curriculum is highly interdisciplinary, combining biology, biochemistry, biophysics, materials science, medical science, bioinformatics and nanotechnology. You will gain foundations in biology, biomedicine and bionanotechnology and develop both experimental and computational skills. The programme prepares you to design and engineer molecular devices—such as synthetic nanomachines, molecular factories and functional biomaterials—for medical and industrial applications.
This four-semester program trains students in both the biological foundations and the technological tools of modern molecular bioengineering, with a strong emphasis on practical wet‑lab competencies. In the first three semesters you build a broad base across two complementary areas: biomedical topics (genomics and stem cell engineering, proteomics, chemistry with biomolecules) and technology‑oriented subjects (bioinformatics, bionanotechnology and biomaterials, biophysics and cellular machines). From the second semester you may specialise by choosing one of two elective tracks that steer your studies toward either biomedical or technological applications.
Key elective choices let you tailor the degree to career goals: the biomedicine track focuses on Materials in Biomedicine and Biomedical Tissue Engineering, while the technology track offers Microsystems Technology and Applied Bionanotechnology. An optional workshop examines public and economic dimensions of bioengineering—covering ethical and legal issues, patenting, and the skills needed to start and run biotech ventures—so you gain awareness of societal impact and entrepreneurship in addition to technical know‑how. Hands‑on laboratory experience is embedded in the curriculum: during the third semester you complete practical research work in laboratories at the CMCB, TU Dresden, or partner institutions.
The final semester is devoted to the Master’s thesis, where you pursue an original research project in one of the department’s research groups (B CUBE, BIOTEC, CRTD or POL) or with another TU Dresden department or external partner. Graduates will be able to design and execute experiments, analyse omics and biophysical data, apply computational and nanotechnological methods, and translate molecular and materials concepts into biomedical or technological solutions—skills that prepare them for research roles, industry positions, or further doctoral study.
Program structure and key requirements
Admission requirements
This master's program is aimed at applicants who already hold a relevant undergraduate qualification. You must have a Bachelor's degree, a Diploma degree, or an equivalent qualification in one of the specified subject areas. International applicants should ensure their prior degree is recognized as equivalent to the listed qualifications and be prepared to supply official transcripts and diplomas.
In addition to a suitable degree, applicants must demonstrate foundational knowledge across several core scientific areas and must be able to work in English. Evidence of prior coursework or other documentation showing basic competence in the listed subjects will be required. For details about acceptable English-language certificates and minimum scores, consult the program's admissions information or contact the admissions office.
Requirements (bullet points)
Winter Semester (International)
31 May 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
31 May 2026
Graduates are prepared for research and development roles in academia, industrial biotech, medical device and materials companies, and in nanotechnology-focused enterprises. The combination of wet-lab experience, computational skills and materials knowledge also supports transitions into product development, regulatory or technical roles within life-science industries.
The programme also provides a strong foundation for doctoral studies (PhD) and for entrepreneurial careers in biotechnology, supported by training in patenting, ethical and economic aspects of bioengineering.