The BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus Master is a two year program. It mixes materials science with pharmaceutical sciences. This program gives students advanced technical knowledge. It also teaches useful skills for many jobs. These skills are needed in research at universities and in the pharmaceutical industry. The Université de Lille in France runs the program. It works with three other partner universities. Students study at each of these schools. They get international experience. When they finish they receive one joint degree. Also Read BIOREF Erasmus Mundus Master in Biorefinery 2026.
Key Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 years (120 ECTS) |
| Language | English |
| Specializations | Soft-matter & Biopharmaceuticals OR Condensed-matter & Pharmaceuticals |
| Options | Modeling & Simulation OR Experimental Characterization |
| Funding | Erasmus Mundus scholarships available |
| Degree | Joint Master’s Degree from partner universities |
Host Universities
- University of Lille,
- University of Pisa,
- University of Silesia (Katowice),
- Polytechnic University of Catalunya
Is BIOPHAM right for you
You will likely enjoy BIOPHAM if you:
- love physical chemistry and want to see it used in drug design.
- want both simulation and hands-on lab time.
- plan for R&D in pharma biotech CRO or a PhD.
- prefer small international cohorts and mobility.
What you actually learn and do
Hard skills
- polymer and soft matter fundamentals.
- solid state drug forms and phase behavior.
- transport phenomena and thermodynamics in pharma systems.
- molecular modeling and simulation workflows.
- You will learn advanced characterization using big facilities like synchrotron or neutron sources.
Transferable skills
- project management and documentation.
- research communication and scientific writing.
- entrepreneurship basics and IP awareness.
- teamwork in intercultural settings.
Typical week
- lectures in the morning.
- lab or computing sessions in the afternoon.
- journal club or data clinic once a week.
- small team assignment with a short memo or poster.
Program flow and mobility
- Term 1 Italy, Pisa foundations in physics chemistry polymers transport
- Term 2 is in Spain, Barcelona covering drug thermodynamics and computational biophysics and advanced methods.
- Term 3 choose one track
- Katowice: soft matter and biopharma Poland Katowice
- Lille: condensed matter and solid state pharma France Lille
Add an option modeling and simulation or advanced experimental characterization
- Term 4 is for a research thesis or placement at a partner lab ending with a public defense.
Tip: pick your Term 3 track early and collect elective proofs and syllabi now so your thesis plan is smooth later
Admission Requirments
- Bachelor in physics chemistry materials nanoscience or close field.
pharmacy or life science is fine if your physics or chemistry base is strong. - You need English level B2 or higher shown by IELTS or TOEFL or proof your degree was in English.
- Competitive file usually shows clear lab exposure plus a focused motivation letter.
Documents Needed
- Application form completed online.
- CV in Europass format two pages.
- Motivation letter 700–1000 words.
- Two or three recommendation letters on letterhead.
- Official transcripts and degree certificate or final year enrollment proof.
- English certificate or MOI if accepted.
- Passport or ID scan.
Timeline for the 2026 intake
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | November 2025 |
| Deadline | February 2026 |
| Results Announced | April–May 2026 |
| Program Start | September 2026 |
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Generic motivation letter write for BIOPHAM only and point to modules you want.
- CV longer than two pages keep it focused on labs skills tools and outcomes.
- Missing English proof book the test early or get MOI on official letterhead.
- Late referee uploads brief your referees and set a personal deadline one week before the portal deadline.
How to apply? BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus 2026
- Open the BIOPHAM application portal.
- Pick your preferred track and option.
- Upload PDFs in English or certified translation.
- Submit before the stated deadline in February.
- Watch your email for interview invites.
Myths vs facts
- Myth: everyone with a high GPA gets a grant
Fact selection weighs fit references motivation and diversity rules - Myth: you must have publications
Fact solid lab work and a clear thesis aim can be enough
Career Opportunities
- R&D scientist solid state formulations.
- Computational scientist molecular modeling for drug candidates.
- Analytical specialist characterization of amorphous and crystalline forms.
- PhD tracks in materials science physical chemistry or pharmaceutical tech.
- Early roles in CROs biotech spin-offs and innovation labs.
FAQs
1. What is BIOPHAM?
A two year Erasmus Mundus master that joins materials science with pharmaceutical science across several EU universities.
2. Do I need a pharmacy degree?
No. A science bachelor is fine if you have strong physics or chemistry.
3. Is English required
Yes. Provide IELTS TOEFL or proof that your degree was taught in English.
4. Where will I study?
Pisa and Barcelona in year one tracks in Katowice or Lille in year two plus a thesis site.
5. Is funding available?
Yes. Erasmus Mundus scholarships may cover tuition stipend travel and insurance for selected students.
6. Can final year students apply?
Yes if you can graduate before enrollment.
Official sources
- Erasmus Mundus catalogue
- Program contact master-biopham@univ-lille.fr