The cell interior is densely packed with macromolecules that self-organize through liquid-liquid phase separation and polymerization. In this interdisciplinary block course, we look at different experimental and theoretical approaches that investigate the fundamental principles of these interactions, how they are regulated and how they influence cell functions and properties of the cell interior.

This Master level course delves into the emerging field of biomolecular condensates - membrane-less organelles in cells. Using interdisciplinary concepts from biology, chemistry, biophysics, and soft matter, we will explore the biological properties of these condensates, their functions in health and disease, and their potentiol as new biomimetic materials for various applications.

Students will learn about biochemical approaches to analyze cellular functions. The course consists of practical projects in small groups, lectures and literature discussions. The course concludes with the presentation of results at a poster session.

Soft matter physics is the study of materials that are “soft” and have behaviours between liquids and solids. Many every-day materials around us, like plastics, cosmetics, and food are soft. Soft materials also play a key role in biology: living matter is for the large part soft matter. In this course we will cover the fundamental concepts of soft and living matter physics.

Introduction to experimental and computational methods of systems biology. By using baker’s yeast as a thread through the series, we focus on global methods for analysis of and interference with biological functions. Illustrative applications to other organisms will highlight medical and biotechnological aspects.