Master of Science in Biophysics

Overview Biophysics sits at the interface of physics and biology and uses physical methods to investigate the complexity of living systems at molecular, cellular and higher levels. This Master's programme is taught in English and focuses on understanding molecular interactions and the physical mechanisms that underlie life processes — including how malfunctions can lead to disease. The course combines theory and practical laboratory work so you learn to analyze biological systems with quantitative, physics-based approaches.

Programme focus and structure The programme aims to give a broad, research-led education in modern biophysics with strong emphasis on hands-on experience. You will be trained in quantitative thinking and current experimental techniques that reflect active research in the field. Students deepen prior knowledge in biophysics, chemistry and biochemistry, and are supported in undertaking their first independent research project under supervision.

Interdisciplinary environment and options Teaching and research are structured around close collaboration between physics, chemistry and biology, allowing you to tailor your studies across disciplines. Elective topics cover areas such as cellular biophysics, bioinformatics, neurobiology, cellular and molecular biology, nanomaterials and polymer physics. The programme is research-oriented and is aimed at highly motivated applicants with clear interests in both physics and biology.

Requirements (typical applicant profile)

• Prior academic background in biophysics, physics, chemistry, biochemistry or a closely related field (previous knowledge in these areas is expected)
• Strong interest in both physics and biology, demonstrated in the application
• Motivation to engage in research and complete an independent research project
• Programme language: English (taught in English)

Curriculum overview

The programme is built from modular components, so you can tailor your study plan to suit your background and career interests. Early “adaptation” modules are provided to help students from diverse undergraduate degrees get up to speed with the biophysics content. In the first year, teaching concentrates on these adaptation modules alongside core biophysics lectures, advanced seminars and hands‑on biophysics laboratory courses. Elective courses from various life‑science disciplines can be combined with the core offering so you can shape a more interdisciplinary profile. Lab work is done in small groups to maximise practical experience and close supervision.

In the second year the emphasis shifts strongly toward independent research. You must complete two research projects — one situated firmly within biophysics and one in another natural‑science area — which broaden your methodological toolkit and expose you to different research cultures. The programme concludes with a research‑oriented Master’s thesis carried out during the final semester; this thesis project runs for six months and is designed to develop project management and scientific communication skills.

Key modules and learning outcomes

• Early adaptation modules: bridge knowledge gaps and enable students from non‑standard backgrounds to follow the programme successfully.
• Core biophysics lectures and advanced seminars: deepen theoretical understanding of biophysical principles and current research topics.
• Small‑group biophysics lab courses: build practical experimental skills, data analysis ability and teamwork in laboratory settings.
• Electives from life sciences: allow interdisciplinary breadth and enable you to align studies with specific interests (e.g., molecular biology, neuroscience, or computational methods).
• Two research projects (biophysics + another natural science): provide hands‑on research experience, methodological versatility and exposure to collaborative research environments.
• Six‑month research thesis: consolidate independent research capabilities, scientific writing and presentation skills, and readiness for PhD programs or research roles in industry.

Requirements (curriculum components)

• Modular programme structure with customizable study plan
• Completion of “early adaptation” modules when required by background
• First two semesters: adaptation modules, core biophysics lectures, advanced seminars, and small‑group biophysics lab courses, plus chosen electives from life sciences
• Two research projects in the second year: one in biophysics and one in another natural‑science field
• Final semester dedicated to a research‑oriented Master’s thesis (duration: six months)

This programme prepares graduates for research careers in academia (including direct progression to PhD programmes) and for roles in industry sectors that apply physical methods to life-science problems, such as biotechnology, medical technology, pharmaceutical research and nanotechnology. Graduates gain skills in quantitative analysis, experimental techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration that are valued in both basic and applied research settings.

Because of its strong laboratory component and project-based training, the degree is particularly suited to students who want to pursue doctoral studies or research positions where independent experimental design and interdisciplinary problem-solving are required.