Physics of Life

Which equations determine the motion of molecules in an organism? How do cells generate and distribute energy to keep themselves alive? What makes tissues deform into distinct shapes when an embryo evolves? How can we measure the forces in cells and tissues? Biological Physics combines the power of physics and the complexity of biological systems. 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’s thesis, you will gain first-hand research experience. In the first semester, the students dive into the exciting world of biophysics, polymer physics, physical and biological chemistry, molecular cell biology, and experimental design. These courses will let you explore the building blocks of life and their interactions. It's not all theory though, you will also get hands-on practicals and computational biology projects. In the second semester, students explore stochastic processes, continuum descriptions of living matter, mechanobiology, biological physics of molecular machines, as well as the fascinating realms of cell and tissue biology. Already in the second semester, students choose their path by focusing on one of three specialisations: Experimental Biological Physics Theoretical Biological Physics Nanobiotechnology Each specialisation offers a unique set of elective courses tailored to deepen your expertise. In the third semester, students delve deeper into topics such as pattern formation and active matter theory, while also attending courses in their chosen specialisation. Additionally, students start an extensive lab project, which can either broaden their horizons or already lay groundwork for their Master's theses. In the fourth semester, students dedicate their time exclusively to their Master's theses. The theses are part of ongoing real-life scientific projects within the research groups associated with the Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life (PoL), as well as B CUBE, BIOTEC, and CRTD. Additionally, students have the opportunity to work at other TU Dresden departments or our partner institutions. PDF Download