The table below offers a clear overview of the program structure, organizing course modules according to their respective semesters. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to include both compulsory and elective courses, providing students with the flexibility to customize their education to align with their personal and professional interests, thereby enhancing their career prospects.
Curriculum
Discover the structure and module details of the M.Sc. Physical Biology of Cells and Cell Interactions.
Semester 1
Basic methods in cell biology
M 1 | 14 CP
- patent right
- rules of good scientific practice
- FELASA B (theory)
- molecular cloning techniques
- cell culture techniques
- model systems
- light microscopy
- electron microscpy (TEM/SEM)
- mathematics
- data analysis and statistics
- bioinformatics
Advanced methods in cell biology
M 2 | 6 CP
lectures "selected topics in cell biology"
literature seminars
colloquia
Elective module I
EM 1 | 11 CP
research group internship (4 - 8 weeks)
Semester 2
Advanced cell biology II
M 3 | 7 CP
lectures "selected topics in cell biology of higher eukaryotes" and "applied immunology"
literature seminars
colloquia
Elective module II
EM 2 | 11 CP
research group internship (4 - 8 weeks)
Elective module III
EM 3 | 11 CP
research group internship (4 - 8 weeks)
Semester 3
Current concepts in cell biology
M 4 | 5 CP
seminar work on the theoretical principles of research conception
Molecular mechanisms of diseases
M 5 | 5 CP
disease mechanisms (i.e. neurodegeneration, cancer, diabetes, immunological disorders, etc.)
Scientific project management
M 6 | 7 CP
project work on the theoretical principles of research conception
funding of research
Advanced methods in cell biology
M 7 | 10 CP
essential experimental techniques intended for the master project
Personal development and soft skill training
O 1 | 3 CP
i.e. presentation skills, conflict management, sceintific writing, career planning, language skills, etc.
Semester 4
Master thesis
M 8 | 30 CP
six months working on an own research project
Mandatory modules
Elective modules
Students select three elective modules, each offering the opportunity for personalized specialization in their area of interest. Each of these modules accounts for 11 credit points (CP) and collectively contributes to 30% of the final grade, with each module accounting for 10%.
Faculty of Biological Sciences
Dr. Isabell Schmitz

Master Physical Biology of Cells and Cell Interactions - Coordination
- Opening Hourson appointment
- Visitor AddressCampus RiedbergBiologicumMax-von-Laue-Straße 1360438 Frankfurt am MainRoom2.122