Master of Science in Physics of Life
About
If you enjoy applying mathematical models and physical principles, then this field opens the door for you to cutting-edge research at the intersection of multiple disciplines including physics, biology, chemistry, and medicine.
The international Master of Science in Physics of Life provides a unique opportunity to learn how to solve exciting real-world biological problems through a physicist’s lens.
If you are intrigued by the “how” and “why” of life at a fundamental level – how proteins fold, how cells communicate, or how organisms develop – Biological Physics provides a versatile platform to explore these questions in detail, using the rigorous, quantitative methods of physics. From addressing modelling of pandemics to designing bioengineered tissues, the field of Biological Physics has an immediate and long-term impact with ample opportunities inside and beyond academia.
By combining computational models and experimental techniques, you will learn how to tackle open problems in biophysics from different angles. Through lab courses and rotations, programming tutorials, and a research-oriented Master thesis, you will gain first-hand research experience.
Specialization tracks
Experimental Biological Physics
- Starting from the 2nd semester
- Dedicated specialization courses
Theoretical Biological Physics
- Starting from the 2nd semester
- Dedicated specialization courses
Nanobiotechnology
- Starting from the 2nd semester
- Dedicated specialization courses
Core curriculum
In addition, a core curriculum of common courses will provide a solid foundation for all students irrespective of their chosen track, which will be crucial for future cross-disciplinary research work.
The core modules will cover the following topics
- Nonlinear dynamics and statistical physics, physical chemistry and thermodynamics, polymer physics
- Experimental methods & design, stochastic processes
- Fluid mechanics, elasticity theory, hydrodynamics of active living matter, pattern formation in biology
- Programming & image analysis
- Molecular biology, cell and tissue biology, mechanobiology, and developmental biology
- Introduction to nanobiophysics and cellular machines
Syllabus
Facts
- No tuition fees!
- The Master course will be exclusively taught in English!
- Flexible application window for international students
- Fast Track option into the Dresden International PhD Program (DIPP)
Background reading
- Helmut Schießel: Biophysics for Beginners
- Steven Strogatz: Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos
- Philip Nelson: Biological Physics
- Howard Berg: Random Walks in Biology
- Rob Philips et al.: Physical Biology of the Cell
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Our work is driven by a sparkling collaborative atmosphere in Dresden between University and non-University research laboratories.