Nano-Analytics of Cellular Systems

The scientific goal of this graduate program is to gain insight into the dynamics and the molecular assembly of cellular molecules, about their recognition on the membrane surface, and on the initiation and performance of cellular processes, such as membrane transport, motility, and differentiation. Functional and structural investigations are carried out on both model and native systems, from single proteins in reconstituted environments to sub-cellular and cellular samples. The major aim is to span the gap between the processes of expression, structural arrangements, and molecular recognition on one side, and membrane transport, cell motility, and differentiation on the other side. As the program focuses on frontier research in life science and cellular nano-research, it integrates numerous fields encompassing biophysics, cell biology, nanotechnology, soft matter physics, molecular and structural biology, genetics, bio-organic and inorganic chemistry, theoretical physics, mathematical modelling, and scientific computing. Novel approaches in biophysics, cellular biology and data analysis provide a solid basis for the education and the training of the students within the NanoCell program. Training next generation multidisciplinary graduates in competitive research projects is of predominant importance to the project. The students are educated in current concepts of biophysics, biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, imaging, spectroscopy, macromolecular modelling, molecular recognition and mechanics, cellular transport and motility, as well as in a range of advanced bio-analytical methodologies, nanoscopy, next generation sequencing, and data-analysis. An integrated interdisciplinary teaching program, consisting of core lectures, specialized lecture courses, laboratory courses, lab rotations, soft skills training, and international exposure at conferences and stays abroad prepare them for a successful career as scientists.