Biophysics Saarland University

The study of biological processes increasingly requires the use of knowledge and methods from physics; using physical strategies and approaches, comprehensive insights into complex biological processes become possible.

Currently, more initiatives are being taken worldwide to train qualified scientists who work at the intersection of biology and physics. Saarland University is taking on a pioneering role here with its degree programme and the close linking of physics and life sciences.

The Biophysics programme at Saarland University combines a physics degree with the acquisition of basic biological knowledge, on which graduates can easily build specialised knowledge.

Due to their broad and fundamental education, biophysicists have very good career opportunities, e.g. in medical, bio- or environmental engineering as well as in academic research institutions. These fields show a strong demand for highly qualified and broadly educated scientists.

In the Master's degree programme in Biophysics, students are required to complete coursework and examinations amounting to 120 credit points (CP).

During the first year of study, the module Theoretical Biophysics provides in-depth training in theoretical biophysics, covering the subfields of nonlinear dynamics, stochastic processes, statistical physics of systems far from equilibrium, and modelling. For students with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, an alternative introductory lecture on theoretical methods of physical analysis of biological systems is offered.

In the experimental part of the programme, advanced concepts of cellular biophysics are presented within the Experimental Biophysics module. Complementing this module, the Advanced Laboratory course gives students access to modern experimental methods currently used in projects conducted by experimentally oriented research groups.

During the winter semester of their first year, students have the option to study for one semester at the University of Strasbourg within the Erasmus programme, completing all coursework there.

Another important component of the curriculum in the first year is the extensive elective area, which includes both biophysics-specific and interdisciplinary course offerings:

• The biophysics elective area (15 CP) serves to prepare students academically for participation in interdisciplinary (research) projects and for the Master’s thesis.
• The interdisciplinary elective area (20 CP) focuses on the acquisition of key qualifications, such as foreign languages, business administration (e.g. entrepreneurship), and the organisation of scientific work, or provides insight into the content and methods of other disciplines such as chemistry, computer science, or mathematics.

The second year of the Master’s programme can be characterised as a research phase. In the third semester, students take the modules “Introduction to Scientific Research” and “Laboratory Project” (15 CP) in preparation for the Master’s thesis (30 CP), which constitutes the completion of the degree programme.

The Master's programme includes two internships that can be completed in research groups or within companies.

Admission to the consecutive Master’s degree programme in Biophysics requires:

• a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent university degree with a focus on biophysics, biology, physics, or a discipline closely related to biophysics, and
• suitability for a Master’s programme. This is generally determined by a Bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of 2.5 or higher, or by an entrance examination.

In addition, expertise in nonlinear dynamics, thermodynamics, and statistical physics, as well as in cell and molecular biology and genetics, is required, along with a basic understanding of biochemistry.

As part of the Master’s programme in Biophysics, supplementary courses are offered that enable students to acquire specialised skills not covered in the Bachelor’s programme.

The number of credit points earned in the Bachelor’s programme in lectures and seminars on physics and biology should not be less than 20 CP in each subject. At least 20 CP should have been earned through laboratory courses.

Currently 394.30 EUR per semester including a nationwide student travel ticket.

More information: https://www.uni-saarland.de/en/study/organisation/fees/semester-fee.html

The estimated monthly cost of living is around 1,114 EUR.

The Welcome Center at Saarland University provides information on working and living in Saarbrücken. For more information, please visit their website: https://www.uni-saarland.de/en/global/welcome-center/living-working.html.

Cost of living: https://www.uni-saarland.de/en/global/welcome-center/preparing/financing/cost-of-living.html

There are always possibilities to find student jobs at university or in research groups.

Students can apply for special accommodation: https://www.uni-saarland.de/en/global/welcome-center/accommodation/dormitories-studierendenwerk.html.