Physics, Biological Physics and Computational Biology - Master Programme

In the world of biology, there is a long series of fundamental unsolved problems that require expertise in physics and mathematics, for example how proteins fold and acquire their specific shape, how these biomolecules interact in cells and how cells divide and communicate. It is therefore of great value to approach this type of biological issue using theoretical physics. Using statistical methods, machine learning, modelling and computer simulations, theoretical physics can contribute new pieces to the puzzle of knowledge.

The Master’s programme provides you with knowledge about how to build and apply explanatory models of the living world around us, based on the fundamental horizon of the discipline of physics. The programme is of an interdisciplinary nature, combining courses in theoretical and mathematical physics with approaches from both biology and chemistry. The programme has strong links to research. All teaching staff members are researchers, so the courses are continuously adapted to current research. The proportion of teacher-directed learning is high.

As a Master’s student, you will be part of a dynamic environment in computational biology and biological physics, with activities characterised by international collaborations and experimental research teams. You can also be part of the exciting work taking place at two internationally leading research facilities, the MAX IV Laboratory and the forthcoming neutron source ESS (European Spallation Source), both in Lund. The programme is taught in English.

Programme structure

The programme includes two compulsory courses, one in quantum mechanics, the other about quantum physics in research and society. During your studies, you will also get to choose between a number of other courses, for example in computational physics, theoretical biophysics, statistical mechanics, artificial neural networks and systems biology.

During the second year of study, you will continue to build your expertise according to your preferences. You can study courses such as experimental biophysics and statistical tools. The degree project is usually worth 30 credits, but it can be longer. It is usually carried out in a research team, but can also be done at a company.

Career prospects

After completing your degree, you have several possible career paths depending on your interests. The Master’s programme provides you with a good basis for research studies in theoretical physics or computational biology. However, you can also choose to work outside academia, in a suitable position in areas such as information and communication technology or biotechnology, where there is a need for expertise in advanced programming and modelling. In addition, new research facilities, such as the MAX IV Laboratory and ESS in Lund, also contribute new opportunities on the labour market.