Molecular Systems Science and Engineering (MSSE)

Overview

This English-language, interdisciplinary Master's programme trains students to investigate complex molecular systems by integrating perspectives from physics, chemistry, materials science and the molecular life sciences. The curriculum balances conceptual foundations with hands-on training so you learn to approach molecular problems both analytically and experimentally, preparing you to work across traditional disciplinary boundaries.

Programme structure and learning goals

The course begins with a foundational semester of lectures and exercises that cover at least three of the five principal subject areas, after which you choose elective modules to specialise from the second semester onward. A set of compulsory professional modules—Creative Science Lab, Technology Transfer, and Data & Project Management—focuses on practical research design, project execution and the translation of ideas into technology. The programme culminates in a research phase made up of internships (accompanied by seminars) and a Master’s thesis, equipping graduates with the skills to plan and carry out independent scientific projects.

This training prepares students for careers in research and development within the broad field of molecular systems science and engineering and provides a solid foundation for entering PhD programmes.

Key programme features and requirements

• Instruction language: English
• Interdisciplinary focus: physics, chemistry, materials science, molecular life sciences
• First semester: basic lectures with exercises in at least 3 of the 5 main subjects
• From semester two: specialisation through elective courses
• Compulsory modules: Creative Science Lab; Technology Transfer; Data & Project Management
• Research phase: internships plus seminars and a Master’s thesis
• Intended outcomes: readiness for R&D roles and eligibility for PhD study

Program overview

This interdisciplinary Master's trains you to think and work at the interface of molecular science, engineering and materials. You begin with broad exposure to the core research areas in Molecular Systems Science, build practical laboratory and project skills, then progressively specialise. Practical experience is central: lab techniques are taught early on and later applied during full‑time lab rotations and the Master's thesis in affiliated research groups.

The curriculum is organised to let you tailor your pathway. In the first two semesters you select core topics and specialisations (including ethics and technology‑transfer components), the third semester is devoted to extended hands‑on rotations in host labs at IMSEAM and other sites (including opportunities abroad), and the fourth semester is reserved for your Master's thesis. Throughout the programme you gain experimental methods, project and data management experience, and exposure to the philosophical and ethical dimensions of engineering science.

Key modules and learning outcomes

• Core topic modules (first semester) cover Energy Conversion, Molecular Engineering, Biomaterials, Nanosystems, and Philosophy & Ethics in the Engineering Sciences — giving you foundational knowledge across the field.
• Specialisation tracks (chosen across semesters) let you deepen expertise in areas such as Macro Molecular Engineering, Life‑Inspired Molecular Systems, Physics of Functional Materials, Physical & Biological Principles of Sensing, Functional Organic Materials, Synthetic Biosystems, Advanced Macromolecular Chemistry, and Physics of Molecular Systems Science and Engineering.
• Practical and transferable skills are developed via Data and Project Management, hands‑on methods and lab practice in the Creative Science Lab (rotations and seminars), and a Technology Transfer module.
• Learning outcomes include proficiency in laboratory techniques, the ability to design and carry out interdisciplinary research projects, competence in managing and analysing research data, and an understanding of ethical and translational aspects of molecular systems engineering.

Curriculum requirements (concise)

• First semester: choose 3 out of 5 core topics — Energy Conversion; Molecular Engineering; Biomaterials; Nanosystems; Philosophy & Ethics in the Engineering Science.
• First semester: select 1 of 4 specialisations — (Macro) Molecular Engineering; Life‑Inspired Molecular Systems; Physics of Functional Materials; Physical & Biological Principles of Sensing.
• First semester: introduction to Data and Project Management.
• Second semester: choose 2 final specialisation topics — Functional Organic Materials; Synthetic Biosystems; Advanced Macromolecular Chemistry; Physics of Molecular Systems Science and Engineering.
• Second semester: methods and lab practice in the Creative Science Lab (rotation and seminar); Technology Transfer module.
• Third semester: full‑time lab rotations in host labs at IMSEAM and other locations (including opportunities abroad).
• Fourth semester: dedicated to the Master's thesis (conducted full‑time in an affiliated research group).

Graduates are prepared for research and development positions in academia, research institutes and industry sectors that work at the molecular scale (e.g. biotechnology, materials science, nanotechnology and pharmaceuticals). The programme’s combination of experimental skills, project management and technology transfer preparation also suits roles in innovation teams and product development.

The degree also provides a solid foundation for doctoral studies (PhD programmes) for students aiming to continue in academic research.