Protein Chemistry, Master of Science

This master's programme offers an in-depth grounding in structural biology and biochemistry, with a particular emphasis on protein chemistry and advanced biophysical methods for high-resolution analysis. Core theoretical topics include thermodynamics, reaction kinetics and the molecular principles that govern biomolecular interactions. The curriculum is geared toward understanding structure and function from the level of whole cells down to individual molecules.

Practical and experimental training covers a wide range of biophysical and single-molecule techniques. Students learn methods such as electromanipulation and dielectric spectroscopy of cells, electrokinetic approaches, studies of protein folding, single-molecule fluorescence, and high-resolution dynamic microscopy. These hands-on methods are complemented by contemporary bioinformatics and large-scale data analysis approaches, including genome and sequence analysis, protein domain/family characterization, next-generation sequencing and proteomics data handling, and investigations of functional RNAs (for example miRNAs and lncRNAs).

The programme also integrates computational systems biology topics, giving students exposure to functional genomics and the dynamic behaviour of the transcriptome, metabolic networks and regulatory circuits. Taken together, the course content is designed to equip students with both experimental and computational skills needed to dissect molecular mechanisms at high resolution and to analyse complex biological data.

Admissions & requirements

• Language of instruction: English
• Academic field: Biology (programme content focuses on molecular/structural biology and biochemistry)
• The original description did not specify formal entry requirements (e.g., degree prerequisites, language tests or application materials). Prospective international applicants should consult the university’s official admissions page for exact entry criteria, documentation, and application deadlines.

This master's curriculum brings together two complementary strands: hands-on protein chemistry (including biophysical techniques and core biochemistry) and computational biology (covering bioinformatics and systems biology). In the first year students take structured coursework in both areas — specifically two lecture-style modules and one practical module for each strand — with each of these modules assessed by a graded exam. This design gives a balanced foundation in experimental and in silico approaches to proteins.

In semesters three and four the emphasis shifts to in-depth, project-based research. Students join ongoing research activities in a chosen specialization, where they learn to design and execute both experimental and theoretical work independently. The program culminates in a written master's thesis that presents, analyses and interprets the research results; the thesis must be presented and defended in a final colloquium.

Key assessed components and credit-bearing elements are specified: a preparatory practical (12 weeks, 15 ECTS) taken before the thesis is ungraded, the thesis itself carries 25 ECTS, and an additional set of modules (15 ECTS) within “Additional Qualifications” are completed on a pass/fail basis. First-year modules are graded and formally examined, while the preparatory practical and additional-qualification modules are assessed without grades.

Learning outcomes include mastering experimental protein-chemistry and biophysical methods, applying bioinformatics and systems-biology tools, planning and conducting independent research projects, and communicating scientific results both in writing and orally — skills that prepare graduates for research careers or industry roles requiring integrated wet-lab and computational expertise.

Requirements / key components

• First year: two theoretical modules + one practical module in Protein Chemistry; two theoretical modules + one practical module in Computational Biology. Each of these modules is accompanied by a graded examination.
• Semester 3 and 4: specialised research training within a chosen field; active participation in ongoing research projects and independent project planning and execution.
• Preparatory practical course: 12 weeks, 15 ECTS — ungraded (pass/fail).
• Master's thesis: 25 ECTS; must be written, presented, and defended in a final colloquium.
• Additional Qualifications: 15 ECTS of selectable modules to cover specific interests — assessed pass/fail (no grades).

Graduates are prepared for research and development roles in academia, biotech and pharmaceutical industries, particularly in areas such as structural biology, proteomics, molecular diagnostics and biophysics. The mix of laboratory techniques and computational skills also suits roles in bioinformatics, systems biology and data-driven life-science projects.

Many students pursue doctoral research after completing the master’s thesis; others move into industry positions in R&D, assay development, analytics, or technical specialist roles that require expertise in advanced experimental methods and large-scale biological data analysis.