NanoBio Science

This MSc programme unites the technological with the biological aspects of nanotechnology in a unique way, equipping graduates with a truly interdisciplinary perspective of the field. Manipulating matter at the nanoscale is already leading to new and improved imaging and display technologies, biomedical sensors, and solar cells for environmentally friendly energy production. The design, fabrication and control of devices with nanoscale (billionth of a metre) dimensions is an engine of innovation in almost every sector.



The MSc in NanoBio Science at the UCD School of Physics is for students excited by the prospect of studying and researching in this emerging interdisciplinary area, where physics, chemistry, engineering and life sciences all come together.



- Interdisciplinary NanoBio Science for Research and Industry



- Experimental and Theoretical Excellence



- World-Class Academic Team



What Will I Learn?

1. Describe the state-of-the-art knowledge and skills in NanoBio Science.

2. Apply knowledge gained and skills developed to specific fundamental or industrial problems.

3. Use the underlying physics of the field to find, assess and use up-to-date information in order to guide progress.

4. Engage actively in addressing research topics of current relevance.

5. Draw on a suite of transferrable skills including critical thinking, problem solving, scientific report writing, communication skills, teamwork, independent work, professional networking and project management.

6. Present findings both orally and in written form, to thesis level.

7. Formulate a mathematical/computational model of a physical phenomenon, execute and report the results of theoretical and numerical predictions and compare results critically with experimental evidence.



Student Internships

There are opportunities to apply for an internship* in an academic or industry workplace. The internship comprises a research project, the theme of which is chosen by the student in agreement with the supervisor and MSc Course Director. The project may include experimental research, modelling/simulations research, and/or other research appropriate to the MSc programme theme.



*Placements are secured through a competitive process and are not guaranteed.

Stage 1 Core Modules

PHYC40850 Physics Research Project 45 2 Trimester duration (Spr-Sum) 45

PHYC40400 Nanooptics and biophotonics Autumn 5

PHYC40410 Physics of nanomaterials Autumn 5

PHYC40470 Computational Biophysics and Nanoscale Simulations Autumn 5

PHYC40560 Advanced Atomic Force Microscopy for Bionanoscience Autumn 5

PHYC40930 Ultrafast Soft X-ray Photonics Autumn 5

PHYC41090 Bio-inspired Technologies PHYC Autumn 5

PHYC40210 Applied Optics Spring 5

PHYC40430 Nanomechanics - from single molecules to single cells Spring 5



Stage 1 Options - B) Min 1 of:

Students should select their remaining credits from this module.

IA40310 Creative Thinking & Innovation Autumn & Spring & Summer (separate) 5

- This programme is intended for applicants with a degree in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Material Science or a related discipline. An upper second class honours or international equivalent is required.



- Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.



- Students meeting the programme’s academic entry requirements but not the English language requirements, may enter the programme upon successful completion of UCD’s Pre-Sessional or International Pre-Master’s Pathway programmes. Please see the following link for further information http://www.ucd.ie/alc/programmes/pathways/



- These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested for some programmes.



You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage. https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax

90

1 Year Full-Time.

MSc NanoBio Science (T149) Full Time

EU: fee per year - €8750

nonEU: fee per year - €25600


***Fees are subject to change.


Tuition fee information is available on the UCD Fees website.

Next Intake: September 2025.

Career & Graduate Study Opportunities

The programme prepares you for industry or further research. Career opportunities include the pharmaceutical industry, telecommunications, diagnostic imaging, green technologies and sensor applications, both in Ireland and internationally. It is also a stepping stone to PhD research in the areas of nanoscience, biophotonics and nanotechnology. Prospective employers include Abbott, Alcon, Allergan, Bausch & Lomb, Becton Dickinson, Boston Scientific, Eblana Photonics, Intel, Pfizer, Pharma-Bio Serv, Philips, and SensL.