Nanosciences: Materials, Molecules and Cells - Master of Science

Over the last twenty years, the nanosciences have developed into a highly fruitful cross-sectional discipline between the life sciences of chemistry and physics. A long-standing tradition of interdisciplinary cooperation in the field of nanosciences is a hallmark of the natural sciences in Osnabrück. The  Center for Cellular Nanoanalytics also provides a unique laboratory infrastructure for interdisciplinary method development.

The focus system allows students to deepen the skills acquired in the Bachelor's degree in one of the three disciplines involved, as well as to gain a new perspective on the interfaces between the two related disciplines in the compulsory elective area. The Master's degree course thus offers a tailor-made, research-oriented specialization in the field of nanosciences. This concept offers a number of advantages:

• Broad spectrum of Master's modules from the fields of life sciences, chemistry and physics
• Comprehensive modules with a strong interdisciplinary focus
• Individual specialization in various cross-sectional topics, e.g. nanomaterial synthesis, polymer chemistry/supramolecular chemistry, nanobiophysics/structural biology, nanophotonics/microscopy
• High practical component with a strong focus on research in the first Master's modules
• Master's theses in an interdisciplinary research environment with access to state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure

Nanosciences and nanotechnology are drivers of innovation in very different fields in which interdisciplinary expertise plays an important role. In addition to activities in research, development and quality control, a number of other fields are opening up in the areas of technology consulting. Typical, economically and technologically highly topical subject areas in the nanosciences are

• Synthesis, characterization and functional integration of nanomaterials, e.g. in the energy sector, for lighting or cosmetics
• Pharmaceutical research, vaccine development, diagnostics and nanomedicine
• Photonics & laser technology, electronics and sensor technology
• Development and application of microscopy & nanoscopy

For careers in research, further qualification is possible via a Doctorate. As part of the  Research Training Group 2900 - nanomaterials@biomembranes, a scientific career that builds on the degree course is promoted in a practical way. The interdisciplinary  CellNanOs Research Center offers excellent infrastructural and thematic opportunities as well as integration into overarching research initiatives.

Many modules can be completed flexibly in different semesters. A total of 60 credit points (CP) must be achieved within the specified corridors in the two compulsory elective areas of the first half of the degree course. A typical study plan is as follows:

• 1^st & 2^nd semester: After a joint opening event (kick-off) with subsequent consultation , you will put together a suitable selection of Master's modules for your Master's modules in the focus and interdisciplinary areas. Through a balanced combination of lectures, seminars and exercises, you will deepen your scientific skills in these subjects and learn about the subject-specific perspectives on nanosciences.
• 3^rd semester: As part of a practical specialization in a working group of your choice, you will prepare for your Master's thesis in terms of methodology and content. An accompanying research course serves to deepen your understanding of the topic of your project. Regular participation in guest speaker seminars within the participating departments will promote initial links to the academic community.
• 4^th semester: This intensive preparation enables you to work on the research project for your Master's thesis largely independently and thus further develop your academic work skills. The targeted preparation gives you the best chance of completing a challenging Master's thesis with an interdisciplinary topic within the standard period of study.

The access requirement is a qualified Bachelor's degree in a degree program in life sciences, chemistry, physics or materials science or an equivalent degree. In the chosen focus (Life Sciences, Chemistry or Physics), coursework amounting to at least 80 ECTS credits must be demonstrated. In addition, a total of 30 ECTS credits from the remaining two disciplines must be able to be contributed, e.g. through discipline-related modules in the Bachelor's degree. Missing credits can be supplemented by suitable courses during the first semesters of the Master's program. Information on the access requirements can be found in the  admission regulations.
 

This program is subject to admission restrictions.
General information on selection procedures is available under the link  Allocation of Study Places. For an overview of the numerus clausus in previous years, please see the link  Selection Threshold.

The examination regulations do not stipulate a compulsory stay abroad. However, students are recommended to plan semesters abroad during their studies.  Stays abroad are possible at numerous European and non-European universities as part of various exchange programs. Please contact the  International Office for details.

Study achievements in a suitable degree course at a foreign or German university can be recognized with up to 30 credit points, provided this has been agreed in advance with the examination board.

Student Advisory Service

If you have any questions about studying, access requirements and course content, please contact the student advisory services for  Biology,  Chemistry and  Physics.

Student councils

For further information on the degree program, you can also contact the students in the student councils of  Biology,  Chemistry or  Physics.

The degree program is accredited by the Agency for Quality Assurance through Accreditation of Study Programs  (AQAS).