Application-oriented learning from the basic study stage in small, intensively supervised groups; In addition, as part of the university's own Humboldt Reloaded Programme, students can promote research ideas or learn through research in project work in the Master's degree courses; Linking the different aspects of food science and biotechnology fosters interdisciplinary thinking; Supplementary modules as an introduction to academic work and the basics of business administration; Master’s degree courses taught in English prepare students for international careers.

The Master's degree courses in Food Science and Engineering, Food Biotechnology, Food System and Bioeconomy are taught in English. In the European Master's degree programme in Food Systems, two stays abroad at European partner universities are part of the curriculum. For students in the Bachelor's degree programme in Food Science and Biotechnology, semester packages with compulsory elective/elective modules that can be studied in English are explicitly indicated.

In addition to laboratories with state-of-the-art chemical, microbiological and physical analysis equipment, there are 7 technical centres with experimental pilot plants for the mechanical and thermal treatment of food as well as bioreactors for the fermentative production of biofunctional substances. In the technical centres, research findings are converted into innovative processes and products, tested and further developed; The institute's integrated knowledge transfer centre enables companies and start-ups to establish, test and optimise production processes for innovations with accompanying analytics.

At the Institute of Food Science and Biotechnology, the focus of research activities is on the scientific and engineering aspects of the conversion of plant and animal raw materials into edible, high-quality food, dietary supplements, functional active ingredients and recyclables. The value chain of foodstuffs is considered as a whole and the complex interrelations between ingredients, processes and functionality are intensively studied across disciplines.

Strategic linking of fundamental research and pre-competitive research for innovation and sustainability; Intensive exchange with national and international research institutions and small, medium and large companies active in research in order to jointly tackle new challenges, identify research topics and combine expertise.