This two-year, fully integrated Erasmus Mundus Master’s programme brings together Université Côte d'Azur (Nice, France), the University of Genoa (Genoa, Italy) and the University of Osnabrück (Osnabrück, Germany) to deliver multidisciplinary training centred on biomembranes. The curriculum combines up-to-date theoretical content with extensive practical training—laboratory internships, collaborative research projects, workshops and thematic schools—preparing students to tackle both fundamental and applied questions in membrane biology, neuroscience and experimental medicine.
The course sequence is designed for progressive specialization: the first semester in Nice covers the structure and function of biological membranes; the second semester in Genoa addresses membrane-related pathologies and neural functions; the third semester in Osnabrück provides methodological specialization in cellular nanoanalytics to study molecular processes at membranes with the highest spatial and temporal resolution. The fourth semester is dedicated to an independent Master’s research project and thesis carried out in one of the partner universities’ research laboratories or in an affiliated industrial setting.
To smooth transitions between the three hosts and broaden professional networks, the programme includes integration events such as an orientation week and a summer school, plus opportunities for industry collaboration. Graduates leave with interdisciplinary laboratory skills, exposure to advanced technologies and soft skills for careers in academia, industry and sectors such as drug development, nanomedicine, membrane engineering and neurophysiology.
Key facts / requirements
This Erasmus Mundus joint MSc is a two-year, English-language programme that takes you from the molecular architecture of membranes to their roles in disease and nervous-system function, finishing with an independent research project. The course is designed around progressive mobility: foundational coursework in membrane structure and function is delivered in France, followed by modules that connect biomembranes to pathology and neurobiology in Italy, then hands-on methodological specialization in Germany, and finally a Master’s thesis in a partner research lab or with an associated industry partner.
Key modules include an in-depth foundation in membrane structure and function (first semester), advanced study of biomembrane-related pathologies and neurological processes (second semester), and practical methodological training in cellular nanoanalytics (third semester). The final semester is dedicated to an original research thesis carried out within one of the consortium’s laboratories or with an industrial partner. Learning outcomes encompass a solid conceptual understanding of membrane biology, the ability to relate membrane mechanisms to disease and neural function, practical competency in cellular nanoanalytical techniques, and experience in executing and communicating independent research projects across international research environments.
This structure gives international students direct exposure to multiple research cultures and laboratory settings, preparing graduates for research careers in academia, clinical research, or industry where membrane biology, neuroscience and advanced nanoanalytic methods intersect.
Program facts and requirements (concise)
Below is a clear summary of the documents and conditions you must submit when applying. Read everything carefully—Erasmus Mundus programmes require complete documentation and, where applicable, proof that you meet visa and mobility rules for the countries you will attend.
Students who have not yet received their final diploma may apply conditionally, but you must provide official evidence of current enrolment and a definitive completion date; all degree requirements must be fulfilled by the time of administrative enrolment. Translations into English are required for non-English documents, and course-by-course details with grades must be supplied for your bachelor’s studies. Two referees must send their letters directly from their professional email addresses to the programme contact.
Required application documents (submit scans or certified copies as indicated)
If anything on your application is unclear or you have special circumstances (e.g., transcripts issued in another language or delays in diploma delivery), contact the programme office before the deadline to confirm acceptable documentation.
Winter Semester (International)
Please check deadlines online and apply through the following online portal:https://life.univ-cotedazur.eu/international/membiomed/how-to-apply.
Graduates are prepared for research and development roles in academia and the private sector, particularly in fields related to membrane biology, neuroscience, drug development, nanomedicine, membrane engineering and experimental medicine. Typical positions include research scientist or technician in university labs, research institutes, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and R&D roles in medical device and diagnostics firms.
The programme's strong methodological focus (cellular nanoanalytics), mandatory lab rotations, industry-linked internships and consortium network also make graduates competitive candidates for PhD programmes and translational research positions. The multidisciplinary training and emphasis on practical, transferable skills (project work, internships, thematic schools) support careers in product development, translational R&D, scientific project management, and other roles that bridge fundamental research and application in health-related industries.