Master of Science in Translational Medical Research Heidelberg University

Course outline

Translational medical research is a two-way process. On one hand, it deals with the conversion of basic research findings into new approaches for the diagnosis and therapy of disease, either in the clinic or through commercial development. On the other hand, it handles the conversion of clinical observations into basic research questions that can be addressed through experimentation.

The Master of Science in Translational Medical Research (MSc TMR) programme systematically provides students with a medical or bioscience background with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in the frontier of translational medical research.

Aims

Translational medical research aims to transfer knowledge, mechanisms, and techniques of basic molecular and cellular research into new approaches for the diagnosis and therapy of disease. It also seeks to translate clinical observations into experimental research. Accordingly, the TMR Master's programme aims to educate students in the interdisciplinary field of translational medical research by training them on how to bridge the interfaces between fundamental laboratory-based experimentation, clinical research and commercial exploitation.

Course structure

The Master's course "Translational Medical Research" is divided into modules that follow the concept "from bench to bedside and back" during the first semester:

Module 1 concerns the basis of medical disorders and disease processes at the molecular and cellular level. In Module 2, students acquire knowledge about current methods and challenges in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of disease, including the research approaches employed in these areas. Module 3 comprises training in individual research and analysis. Module 4 focuses specifically on translational medicine and includes commercial exploitation. In Modules 1, 2, and 4, students can choose short practical courses, in which they will become acquainted with experimentation in the fields of molecular oncology, neurobiology, vascular medicine, or other topics.

In the second semester, TMR students carry out original research for their Master's thesis projects, write their Master's theses, and present their findings orally.

The whole second of the two semesters is dedicated to a Master's thesis research project.

The course is open to medical doctors, biologists, pharmacists, and other professionals in health-related sciences or life sciences who hold a first academic degree equivalent to 240 ECTS (usually a Bachelor's degree after at least four years of full-time study).

161.10  EUR per semester

Approx. 750-850 EUR per month

https://www.uni-heidelberg.de/en/study/management-of-studies/funding-of-studies/scholarships-and-support-programmes-0

Accommodation is available through student services of the University of Heidelberg and the University of Mannheim or on the private market. Rent for a single room in a student residence is approx. 331 to 381 EUR.