This program provides an in-depth study of biological processes and scientific innovation at the Biology–Chemistry interface. Designed for students passionate about understanding life at the molecular level, it prepares them to tackle the major scientific challenges of the future. The curriculum integrates structural biology, proteomics, bioinformatics, biomolecular engineering, and chemical biology, reflecting the latest advances in science and technology.
The Engineering and Chemistry of Biomolecules track offers:
- A leading program in the study and engineering of biological macromolecules, in collaboration with prestigious institutions (research institutes, Paris-Saclay and Paris-Cité Universities, large-scale instruments such as the Synchrotron, and specialized technological platforms).
- Flexible specialization options in Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Structural Biology, Biophysics, Biomolecular Engineering, or Chemical Biology.
- Advanced interdisciplinary training at the Chemistry–Biology interface.
- Rigorous and comprehensive education, combining theoretical instruction with hands-on practice, led by experts from high-level research laboratories with access to state-of-the-art facilities.
- Research immersion through a full-time five-month internship primarily within the program’s network of leading laboratories, while students retain the flexibility to conduct their internship at an external institution in France or abroad.
Information
Skills
The first semester offers elective courses for progressive specialization, taught by experts from leading laboratories and state-of-the-art technological platforms, combining theoretical and practical instruction.
Students acquire a comprehensive set of skills at the interface of biology and chemistry. The training covers protein and nucleic acid biochemistry, structural biology, proteomics, nuclear magnetic resonance of proteins (NMR), cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), X-ray crystallography, spectroscopic and imaging techniques, bioinformatics and molecular modeling, as well as protein engineering, including the use of bioorthogonal chemistry tools.
Integrative structural biology and chemobiology approaches are addressed in the form of lectures on current research in various fields such as microbiology, virology, cell biology and signaling or pathophysiologies.
Students gain hands-on experience with advanced laboratory instruments, research platforms, and bioinformatics tools based on recent developments in artificial intelligence applied to proteins (AlphaFold, protein design).
They develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, and independent project execution.
Objectives
The Master’s in Engineering and Chemistry of Biomolecules, offered by the Biology-Health and Chemistry departments of Université Paris-Saclay, sits at the interface of Biology and Chemistry. It trains future researchers—academic or industrial—capable of understanding biological processes at the molecular and structural level and designing innovative molecular engineering approaches. Graduates are prepared to pursue a doctoral program or join a research team directly as engineers.
The program combines theoretical and practical training at the forefront of scientific and technological advances, integrating biological and chemical approaches to study structure-function relationships of macromolecules. The first semester offers elective courses for progressive specialization, followed by a multi-month research internship in a leading laboratory.
Beyond theoretical and methodological knowledge, the program fosters an interdisciplinary scientific culture, essential for tackling major contemporary challenges in the life sciences.
The primary objective of the Master’s in Engineering and Chemistry of Biomolecules is to prepare students for doctoral studies. Upon completion of the program, graduates may also pursue careers as research engineers within academic teams, R&D engineers in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical sectors, or engineers in bio-industries related to the environment and sustainable development.
Career Opportunities
Career prospects
After Master and PhD : reseacher or assistant professor or professor
Après Master + Doctorat : chercheur ou enseignant-chercheur
Ingénieur d'études industrie / recherche publique
Ingénieur d’études dans les domaines de la recherche
Further Study Opportunities
Doctorat en Chimie / Biologie
Ingénierie études, recherche et développement
Doctorat
Fees and scholarships
The amounts may vary depending on the programme and your personal circumstances.
Admission Route
Capacity
Available Places
Target Audience and Entry Requirements
The Master’s in Engineering and Chemistry of Biomolecules is intended for students with a strong interest in protein and nucleic acid biochemistry, structural biology and bioinformatics, and approaches at the interface of Chemistry and Biology. Applicants are therefore expected to have a prior background in biochemistry, biotechnology, or chemistry/biology. Other backgrounds, such as pharmacy or engineering schools, are also suitable if the student’s project aligns with these directions.
Application Period(s)
From 02/03/2026 to 30/06/2026
Supporting documents
Compulsory supporting documents
Motivation letter.
All transcripts of the years / semesters validated since the high school diploma at the date of application.
Curriculum Vitae.
Additional supporting documents
Letter of recommendation from a trainee.
Certificate of French (compulsory for non-French speakers).
Detailed description and hourly volume of courses taken since the beginning of the university program.
VAP file (obligatory for all persons requesting a valuation of the assets to enter the diploma).
The application procedure, which depends on your nationality and your situation is explained here : https://urlz.fr/i3Lo.
Supporting documents :
- Residence permit stating the country of residence of the first country
- Or receipt of request stating the country of first asylum
- Or document from the UNHCR granting refugee status
- Or receipt of refugee status request delivered in France
- Or residence permit stating the refugee status delivered in France
- Or document stating subsidiary protection in France or abroad
- Or document stating temporary protection in France or abroad.
Teaching Location(s)
Academic partner
INSTN