Program Overview

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Master of Science in Physics of Life

The Master of Science in Physics of Life is a unique program that combines the power of physics and the complexity of biological systems. This field opens the door for students to cutting-edge research at the intersection of multiple disciplines, including physics, biology, chemistry, and medicine.

Program Description

Biological Physics combines the power of physics and the complexity of biological systems. Students will learn how to solve exciting real-world biological problems through a physicist’s lens. The program provides a versatile platform to explore questions in detail, using the rigorous, quantitative methods of physics. From addressing modeling 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.

Specialization Tracks

Starting from the 2nd semester, students will choose one of three sub-tracks:

• Experimental Biological Physics
• Theoretical Biological Physics
• Nanobiotechnology In addition, a core curriculum of common courses will provide a solid foundation for all students, covering topics such as:
  • 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

The syllabus is structured as follows: | Semester | Core Modules | Specialization Modules | | --- | --- | --- | | 1st Semester | Introductory Biological Physics | | | 2nd Semester | Advanced Biological Biophysics | Specialization Experimental Biological Physics, Specialization Theoretical Biological Physics, Specialization Nanobiotechnology | | 3rd Semester | Pattern Formation and Active Matter Hydronamics, Physical Chemistry and Experimental Methods | | | 4th Semester | Master Thesis, Research Lab Projects, Statistical Principles and Experimental Design, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry of Cells and Tissues, Elements of Nanobiotechnology | |

Why Study and Work in Dresden?

Dresden offers an exceptional student life, with a vibrant cultural scene, stunning architecture, and affordable living. The city has a thriving start-up culture, driven by local innovation centers, and provides career opportunities in various fields, including microelectronics and biotech. The international campus of TU Dresden hosts around 29,000 students, with approximately 18.5% international students, fostering global connections and opportunities to learn German.

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)

Application

The application period for the winter term 2026/2027 is from April 1 to May 31, 2026. Early application is possible for US and other international students with early deadlines, with early review of applications on a rolling basis.

Background Reading

Recommended background reading includes:

• 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

Research Areas

The program covers various research areas, including:

• Collective Transitions in Multicellular Systems
• Emergent Cellular Phases
• Self-Organizing Active Molecular Systems
• Energy and Information Flows in Active Matter
• Physical Measurements in Intact Living Systems
• Engineering Living Matter
• Bio-Data Science and Physics-Informed AI

Core Facilities

The program has access to various core facilities, including:

• Bio-image Analysis
• PoL Microscopy
• Microfluidics Core
• Stem Cell Core

Career and Education

The program provides opportunities for career development, including:

• Open Positions
• PhD Positions
• Postdoc Program
• Equity & Diversity
• PoL Supporting Programs & Grants
• Life in Dresden

News and Events

The program hosts various news and events, including:

• News
• Events
• Highlights
• PoL Comics

Team

The program is supported by a team of experts, including:

• PoL Groups
• New PoL Groups
• Associates/Affiliates
• Governance
• Administration

Legal

The program is subject to the legal notice and privacy policy of TU Dresden.