14.09.2022
Overview
Biomedicine, Neurosciences
Biomedicine and neuroscience deal primarily with molecular biological processes. Here methods of DNA analysis are used as well as computer tomographic procedures that visualize neural activities.
The study field at a glance
Located at the interface between medicine and biology, biomedicine explores the molecular and cell biological foundations of life. The aim is to identify the causes of diseases in order to prevent or treat them. As an interdisciplinary branch of human biology, biomedicine unites molecular biology methods with those of cell biology and investigates issues of experimental medicine.
At the center of neuroscience is the investigation of the structure and functioning of nervous systems. Various types of cells are investigated, for example, diffuse nervous systems of hollow animals, the arctropod ladder system or the vertebrate central nervous system, in order to investigate their integration into neuronal networks. Neuroscientists work together in practice partly with representatives of other disciplines such as cognitive science, psychology or philosophy.
Offered courses
The range of pure biomedicine or neuroscience courses is limited. In the life sciences there are combination offers such as biomedical engineering. Anyone who has completed a natural science bachelor's degree, however, will find a comparatively broad range of neuroscience master's programs.
Contents of the course
In the study of biomedicine, scientific fundamentals in the fields of biochemistry, physiology and human anatomy are first conveyed. In elective courses, students can complete internships in various fields. During the course of study, they acquire key competences, i.e. in genetic engineering, experimental animal science, biometrics and biological safety. Part of the training can be done together with biology and medical students.
Neuroscientific bachelor's programs also impart medical and scientific foundations, for example in chemistry, physics, physiology, biochemistry or neuroanatomy, but also include more in-depth modules such as cognitive neuroscience, neurohistology or neuroanatomy. In the master, the students deepen their knowledge and set priorities if necessary.
Possible careers after graduation
Biomedicine graduates traditionally work in research at universities, research centers or in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, but may also be employed in environmental and health departments, clinics, science management, media or patenting.
Neuroscientists find employment in basic teaching, in the research-based pharmaceutical industry, in scientific publishing or in the scientific coordination work of organizations.
