The ‘Harvard Medical School’s Clinical Science Scholars’ programme, which enjoyed great success last year, has been announced again. This programme, a joint initiative of Harvard Medical School and Semmelweis University, offers a unique educational opportunity for young professionals dedicated to clinical research.

Under the framework of the Harvard Medical School’s Clinical Science Scholars programme at Semmelweis University (CSS), participants can immerse themselves in the latest advancements and best practices in clinical research. By the end of the nine-month training, they will confidently be able to prepare and conduct clinical trials, analyse and interpret research data, and master the art of successful grant applications and leading clinical teams. Through group discussions and problem-solving sessions, supplemented by monthly webinars and over 85 recorded online lectures, participants collaborate to address key challenges. The programme comprises three workshops—one in Budapest, one online, and one in Boston—forming the backbone of the curriculum, which is divided into five modules covering epidemiology, research ethics, biostatistics, clinical research, and leadership skills and teamwork.  In addition to the core curriculum, participants can tailor their learning experience by selecting modules such as Secondary Analysis of Clinical Trials, Genetic Epidemiology, or Cost-effectiveness and Healthcare Decision Making. As part of the programme, participants develop research proposals, with the top ten projects presented during webinars and the top three showcased at the concluding workshop in Boston.

Semmelweis University Rector Béla Merkely emphasized that the programme’s inaugural year in 2023 in Budapest attracted numerous participants from Central Europe. ‘In 2024, Semmelweis University once again hosts the CSS programme, providing an excellent learning opportunity for early-career physicians and healthcare professionals, PhD students, postdoctoral fellows, and residents,’ the Rector stated.

In line with the collaboration agreement between Semmelweis University and Harvard Medical School, the National Healthcare and Medical Education Foundation covers half of the participation fee for fifty Semmelweis students.

Applications for the CSS programme are accepted on the Harvard Medical School website, requiring a professional CV, a cover letter, and a letter of recommendation. Early applications and submissions for the supportive scholarship are open until 12 May, with the final application deadline on 26 May.

Read more:

Sources: Hungarian Conservative/semmelweis.hu