The second term of Track 3, “Molecular Science for Pharmaceutical Applications”, of the BIOPHAM Master takes place at the University of Silesia in Katowice (USK), Poland. It provides interdisciplinary training combining physics, molecular biophysics, materials science, pharmacology and pharmaceutical technology. The semester integrates theoretical courses, experimental laboratory work, computational modelling and practical research experience, with particular emphasis on understanding molecular processes relevant to pharmaceutical development.
Soft Matter Physics introduces the fundamental principles governing the structure, dynamics and mechanical properties of soft materials, including polymers, colloids, liquid crystals, gels and surfactants. Students explore thermodynamics of mixtures, polymer elasticity, surface tension, wetting, phase transitions, Brownian motion and diffusion. Particular attention is given to rheology, viscoelasticity, molecular relaxation and non-equilibrium behaviour. The course establishes relationships between microscopic interactions, molecular organisation and macroscopic material properties.
Molecular Biophysics with Elements of Computer Modelling combines experimental and computational methods for studying biological molecules and their interactions. Students investigate proteins, nucleic acids, membranes and molecular assemblies using UV-visible, fluorescence and circular dichroism spectroscopy, microscopy, calorimetry, nuclear magnetic resonance and electron paramagnetic resonance. Transport phenomena and molecular mobility are also explored. The computational component introduces molecular mechanics, molecular dynamics simulations and molecular docking. Students gain practical experience in biomolecular force fields, simulation trajectories, conformational analysis and protein–ligand interactions, developing skills in integrating experimental observations with computational results.
Pharmacology and Drug Discovery provides fundamental knowledge of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and the mechanisms underlying drug action. Topics include drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, toxicity and interactions with biological targets. Students examine how molecular structure, hydrophobicity, ionisation and solubility influence drug transport across biological membranes and therapeutic activity. Laboratory sessions introduce experimental methods used in pharmaceutical research, including cell culture, cytotoxicity assays, flow cytometry, Western blotting and PCR. The course develops practical skills in evaluating potential drug candidates and interpreting biological responses.
Scattering Techniques for Structural Investigation introduces X-ray and neutron scattering methods for characterising the structure and dynamics of materials. Students study the principles of scattering, experimental sources and large-scale facilities, including synchrotrons and neutron sources. Techniques include total scattering, small-angle scattering and inelastic scattering, providing information on local atomic organisation, nanoscale structure and molecular dynamics. Applications cover crystalline and amorphous pharmaceuticals, proteins, polymers, liquids and other soft materials.
The Specialized Laboratory – Microscopy of Soft Matter provides practical training in advanced imaging and analytical techniques. Students explore transmission and scanning electron microscopy, cryogenic electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, micro-computed tomography and complementary techniques such as SEM-Raman and SEM-FIB. Elemental characterisation using EDX and WDX spectroscopy is also introduced. The course covers sample preparation, image formation, spatial resolution, three-dimensional reconstruction and quantitative image analysis, including AI-assisted segmentation. Students develop skills in selecting appropriate microscopy methods and interpreting structural and compositional information.
Stochastic Dynamics of Systems in Molecular Biology introduces theoretical approaches for describing molecular processes using equilibrium and non-equilibrium statistical mechanics. Topics include probability theory, Langevin dynamics, stochastic calculus, the Fokker–Planck equation, stochastic thermodynamics and fluctuation relations. Students acquire the mathematical foundations needed to understand and model random molecular motion, fluctuations and thermodynamic processes in biological systems.
Hot-Melt Extrusion: From Theory to Application in Drug Formulation focuses on an advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing technique used to prepare solid dispersions and improve the solubility and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. Students investigate drug–polymer interactions, miscibility, thermal behaviour, polymer viscoelasticity and processing parameters. Laboratory activities include rheological measurements, formulation optimisation and the production of drug–polymer systems using a twin-screw extruder. The course develops practical skills in relating formulation composition and manufacturing conditions to the physicochemical properties of pharmaceutical materials.
A compulsory Short Internship provides hands-on experience in a university, research institute, scientific facility or private company. Students participate in research or product development activities, gaining practical knowledge of professional research environments and developing scientific, technical and organisational skills.
Overall, the second term combines molecular-level understanding with experimental characterisation, computational modelling and pharmaceutical manufacturing. It equips students with interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills for investigating molecular interactions, material properties, biological processes and drug formulations, preparing them for advanced research and development in pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences.
