Applied Cell Biology

    Become an expert in Applied Cell Biology

    Key data

    Degree
    Master of Science in Life Sciences
    ECTS points
    90
    Studying mode
    Full-time and part-time
    School days
    Monday to Friday
    Teaching language
    English
    Place
    Muttenz (Basel-Land)
    Stay abroad
    optional
    Application fee
    CHF 200

    The deadline for applications for the autumn semester is 30 April of the relevant year and 30 November for the spring semester.

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    Applied Cell Biology – Career Opportunities
    Applied Cell Biology focuses on specific relevant cell biology applications in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research. From single cell assays to complex tissue engineering, applied cell biology is gaining importance in both academic and industrial research. Rapid technological advances, the increasing relevance of cell-based models, and the growing need to replace animal experimentation in research in the context of the 3Rs (Replace, Refine, Reduce) will put this field in the centre of pre-clinical research. Graduates of this course will become familiar with the use of mammalian cells for assay development, for drug discovery research and for regenerative medicine.

    Applied Cell Biology – Curriculum
    The specialisation-specific modules will address aspects such as cell engineering for the development of high throughput assays and the use of complex microphysiological systems in the pharmaceutical industry. In addition, students will become familiar with related technologies such as cell imaging for high content screening as well as process and analysis automation for the successful industrial implementation of cell-based assays. These topics will be discussed in the context of specific industrial applications based on real-life examples and supported by theory. Modules from neighbouring specialisations, in particular Analytical Chemistry, Bioanalytics, Biotechnology, and Pharmatechnology complement the specific contents. This broad range of specialist and generic modules allows each student to create an individually tailored study programme.
    The course will prepare the next generation of Applied Cell Biologists for an outstanding career in research and development laboratories in academia and industry. Moreover, students will acquire knowledge to facilitate a future career in related fields such as bioengineering, analysis, or automation for cell cultures.
    The MSc study includes an eight month thesis, usually conducted at the research facilities of one of our industrial partners. Alternatively, the thesis can be carried out abroad at any institution (private or public) that meets the FHNW-scientific standards. The eight month thesis forms the basis for successful employment in industry, the medical sector or in academia.
    The combination of two semesters of study with practical experience gained during the thesis qualify our alumni for stimulating and demanding positions in research and development or for doctoral studies.

    Applied Cell Biology – Entry Requirements
    The MSc in Life Sciences – Applied Cell Biology is especially suited for students with a BSc degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry or related fields.

    Details of the Master's programme

    Modul Groups for the Applied Cell Biology

    Module Group Applied Cell Biology (4 out of 5)

    • Cellular Imaging
    • Bioassays: engineered cells, tissues, organisms
    • Advanced cell culture systems
    • Laboratory automation in the Pharmaceutical Industry
    • Gene- and Cell-Therapeutics

    Module Group Electives (3 out of 6 required)

    • Chromatography and Mass-Spectrometry
    • Proteomics and Protein Analytics
    • Genomics
    • Biomarker
    • Bio-interfaces and Bio-conjugate Chemistry
    • Molecular & Translational Imaging

    Module Group Cluster-Specific (3 out of 5 required)

    • Physicochemical Principles of Pharmaceutics
    • Tissue Engineering for Drug Discovery
    • Compound Profiling in Pharmaceutical Drug Discovery
    • Physiology and Immunotherapies
    • Bioanalytics in a Regulated Environment

    Module Group Core Competences (4 out of 8 required)

    • Handling and Visualizing data
    • Design and Analysis of Experiments
    • Modelling and Exploration of Multivariate Data
    • Data and Ethics
    • Business Administration for Life Sciences
    • Management and Leadership for Life Sciences
    • Innovation and Project Management
    • Politics and Society

    N.B. In total 50 ECTS (meaning 17 modules a 3 ECTS) have to be gained. Further modules can be chosen: Module Overview
    You may also plan your studies in advance with our MSc Life Sciences planning tool.

      Admission

      Graduates with an excellent Bachelor's degree are admitted directly if they:

      • hold a Bachelor's degree in a related technical field from a university of applied sciences with a mark of A, B or ≥ 5 or an equivalent mark (≥ good)
      • or demonstrate an equivalent background (BSc) and practical experience
      • and have excellent English skills.

      Prospective students who meet most but not all of the entry requirements are invited to an interview.

      Study guide

      Downloads

      FHNW School of Life Sciences

      FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland
      School of Life Sciences

      Hofackerstrasse 30

      CH - 4132 Muttenz