Ph.D. Medical Research - Cardiovascular Science

We offer postgraduate students the opportunity to join international research groups working on the basic development, pathophysiology and control of the cardiovascular system, as well as the causes, consequences and treatment of cardiovascular disease. The work ranges from basic laboratory and health services research to clinical trials. Thus, the program offers students the opportunity to learn more about cardiovascular disease and in this way connects the classical research areas of natural sciences with clinical medicine.

The Ph.D. program is open to all national and international students who hold a master's degree or equivalent in life sciences, natural sciences, medicine, or related fields (e.g., medical engineering, veterinary medicine, epidemiology, etc.). In addition, the new program is designed to provide structured scientific training in cardiology, angiology, pediatric cardiology, congenital heart disease, vascular surgery, cardiac surgery, and pediatric cardiac surgery or congenital heart disease to physicians from Germany and abroad. The opportunity to pursue a doctorate with a focus on 'Cardiovascular Science' is almost unique in Germany.

Cardiovascular diseases are chronic, non-communicable diseases that, as a growing global problem, place a particularly heavy burden on the healthcare systems of developing and emerging countries. Around 18 million people die from cardiovascular disease each year, and more than 75% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. Often, public health systems lack standardized national guidelines, qualified professionals, and the necessary medical equipment. The new sandwich-structured Ph.D. program thus not only meets the interest of German students and physicians, but also the urgent global need for action when considering cardiovascular diseases.