Life Sciences Engineering

Engineering solutions for life sciences.

This Master’s program focuses on the research and development of technologies applied to life sciences.

Reconstructed dendrite from a neuron previously imaged in the visual cortex in vivo. | Method: Electron microscopy | © G. Knott & S. El-Boustani

The program deals with important aspects of current biomedical research and applied engineering technologies for fields such as molecular medicine, tissue engineering, oncology, immunology, neuroprosthetics, neurosciences, brain-machine interface and biocomputational sciences.

Program’s objectives

The Master’s degree in Life Sciences Engineering aims to train young scientists capable of addressing research and development issues with a deep understanding of the biological context and engineering aspects of development of new technologies. The courses and specializations offered in the program illustrate this ambition. This transdisciplinary philosophy is also reflected in research in life sciences as it is conducted at EPFL.

The specializations offered include the following disciplines:

biomedical engineering
molecular health
biological data science
neuroscience

This program covers both theoretical foundations and practical aspects of the discipline.

Potential employment opportunities after graduation are many, including the biomedical, biotech and pharma sectors, fundamental or translational research, finance, consulting, as well as the regulatory affairs and public health sectors.

This Master’s program is an excellent preparation for both the option of doing a PhD or working in industry or start-ups.

Simplified study plan

Please note that the information regarding programs’ structure as well as the simplified study plans may be subject to change and that they are not legally binding. Only the official regulations and study plans are binding.

Admission criteria

This Master’s program is consecutive to a Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences Engineering obtained at EPFL.

Bachelor’s degrees obtained in the same field but from another institution are eligible on the basis of an application and must be accompanied by excellent academic records.

EPFL Bachelor’s degrees in another related field of science and engineering are eligible and also subject to an application-based review.

In addition, skills in engineering (signal processing, systems, electronics, data science and machine learning) and basic knowledge of life sciences (cellular and molecular biology, similar to the content of BIO-105 or BIO-109) are required, as well as a strong interest in the chosen field.

The acquisition of additional credits to address any gaps may be required.

Please note that fulfilling all of these criteria does not guarantee admission.

Further information about admission criteria

Teaching language

English

Diploma and title obtained

Upon completion of their Master’s curricula, students obtain an EPFL Master of Science MSc in Life Sciences Engineering. The diploma also gives graduates the right to use the title of EPF qualified Engineer.

Online application