Program Overview
The English-Taught Master's Program in Synthetic Biology and Biomanufacturing is offered by the Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering (iBHE), Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School.
The program integrates life sciences, engineering, and data science to meet the growing demand for professionals in synthetic biology and biomanufacturing. Built around the Design-Build-Test-Learn (DBTL) framework, it develops students' capabilities in biological system design, cell factory construction, metabolic engineering, experimental validation, and data-driven optimization.
Through English-taught courses, interdisciplinary training, and industry-oriented projects, the program prepares graduates for technology development, engineering applications, and industrial translation in biomedicine, green manufacturing, food technology, and biomaterials.
The authorized professional degree category is Biology and Medicine (Code: 086000), with a specialization in Synthetic Biology and Biomanufacturing.
Program Features
1. English-Taught and Interdisciplinary Curriculum
The program combines synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, systems biology, biomanufacturing, and artificial intelligence. Core courses are delivered in English, providing students with an international and interdisciplinary learning environment.
2. DBTL-Based Engineering Training
The curriculum follows the Design-Build-Test-Learn cycle and connects biological design, experimental construction, performance testing, and iterative optimization. Students develop practical skills in areas such as artificial cell factory design, metabolic network engineering, multi-omics analysis, and AI-assisted biological design.
3. Industry-Oriented Practical Education
Students participate in professional practice, enterprise projects, and interdisciplinary innovation activities. Training may include industry-based projects, practical placements, and competitions such as iGEM. These activities allow students to address real engineering challenges and gain experience in technology translation.
4. Research and Teaching Resources
The program draws on iBHE's teaching and research platforms in synthetic biology, intelligent health engineering, and biomanufacturing. Its facilities support research across the full technical workflow, from molecular design and gene editing to cell construction, high-throughput screening, and functional validation.
Faculty Information
CHEN Xiaodong, XING Xinhui, MA Lan, Peter E. Lobie, LI Jinghong, HE Honghui, MA Shaohua, HE Yonghong, PAN Tingrui, ZHANG Canyang, HAN Sanyang, GAO Dan, GUAN Tian, GENG Hongya, XIE Weidong, LIN Jinshun, LIU Feng, SUN Shuqing, TAN Ying, TAN Chunyan, Tatsuhisa Tsuboi, WANG Runming, LI Feiran, ZHOU Xuequan, MAO Runze, SONG Xiaowei, WU Jian, and ZENG Nan.
Core Courses
·Introduction to Synthetic Biology
·Molecular Enzyme Engineering
·Metabolic Engineering
·Biomanufacturing
·Artificial Cell Factory Design and Construction
·Ethics and Biosafety in Synthetic Biology
·Frontiers in Synthetic Biology
·Comprehensive Experiments in Synthetic Biology
·Interdisciplinary Innovation Practice and iGEM Project Training
·Statistics for Biological Research
Course offerings are subject to the final curriculum arrangements.
Internship Opportunities / Professional Practice
Professional practice is a compulsory part of the program. Students may undertake practical training at iBHE joint training bases, approved organizations, or partner laboratories and enterprises. The program also encourages participation in enterprise projects that address real engineering challenges in synthetic biology and biomanufacturing.
Specific placements depend on project arrangements and availability.
Program Duration
2 academic years, full-time.
Credit Requirements
Students must complete at least 29 credits, including required general courses, professional courses, academic and professional development courses, and compulsory training components.
RMB 39,000 per academic year.
Scholarship
Please visit：https://www.sigs.tsinghua.edu.cn/en/7409/list.htm
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What degree will I receive?
Graduates who complete all program and degree requirements will receive a Professional Master's Degree in Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, with a specialization in Synthetic Biology and Biomanufacturing.
2. What is the language of instruction?
The program is taught in English. Core and professional courses are delivered in English. Applicants must meet the English-language requirements stated in the official program catalog for the relevant application cycle.
3. How long does the program take?
The standard program duration is 2 academic years of full-time study.
4. How many credits are required?
Students must complete at least 29 credits, including required general courses, professional courses, academic and professional development courses, and compulsory training components.
5. Is professional practice required?
Yes. Professional practice is compulsory. The required duration and credits depend on the selected training pathway.
Tel: 86+ 0755-26404909
Email: ibhe_admission@sz.tsinghua.edu.cn
