Life Science Engineering
Under Life Science Engineering refers to a field of research and study, that the intersection of the engineering sciences with the life sciences ( life sciences , is located), and is becoming increasingly important. Life Science Engineering deals with the technical use and engineering implementation of the findings from the life sciences. Only when you have understood how living systems work can you use this knowledge technically. This includes the development of new products or processes for the pharmaceutical and chemical industry, the cosmetics industry or in environmental technology. Conversely, engineering knowledge is required to integrate biological systems into technical processes. A typical example is the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients in sufficient quantity and quality.
In simple terms, a “life science engineer” is an engineer working in a team who understands the natural sciences in the field of life sciences and can translate his knowledge into technical solutions. Aspects of sustainability and the use of sophisticated software (bioinformatics, simulation) are also important.
Critics and supporters
There are critical voices who criticize the fact that this new German term simply summarizes specialist areas that were previously called biotechnology, process engineering or xyz engineering and are now supposed to be enhanced by the term life science engineering. On the other hand, the more consistent linking of the life sciences with the engineering sciences is certainly new and innovative in this consequence. The term has not only become firmly established in the German university and research sector, but is also increasingly used internationally. In terms of content, there are courses that have a similar basic profile, such as B. Biotechnology, bioprocess engineering, bioengineering.
Course of study
Life Science Engineering is an interdisciplinary course (bachelor's and master's degree) that can also be studied at some universities outside Germany. The graduates have good chances and a. in the life science-specific plant construction, the chemical-pharmaceutical industry (drugs, care products, food supplements, etc.), in the food and luxury goods industry as well as in biotechnology companies (production of active ingredients using microorganisms and cell cultures, development and implementation of biotechnological examination processes and screening methods) .