The Ph.D. program was originally established by the following departments at LMU Munich and the LMU University Hospital:
While these departments form the academic foundation of the program, the PhD program is open to applicants from all areas of cardiovascular research and is not limited to these seven founding departments. Likewise, PhD projects and supervisors are not restricted to these departments. Researchers and supervisors from other relevant institutes, departments, or collaborating institutions within Germany and internationally may also be involved, provided that the proposed project fits the scientific scope and quality standards of the program.
The Ph.D. in Medical Research - Cardiovascular Science at LMU Munich is a three-year program combining coursework, research, and an oral defense. It is part of the Munich Medical Research School (MMRS) and designed to provide national and international students with in-depth training in all aspects of cardiovascular science in order to expand the frontiers of research in this field.
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The Ph.D. program aims to achieve three main objectives:
We offer postgraduate students the opportunity to join international research groups working on the basic development, pathophysiology and control of the cardiovascular system. Additionally, we delve into the causes, consequences and therapeutic approaches for cardiovascular diseases. Our research spectrum spans from basic laboratory research and health service investigations to clinical trials. Thus, the program bridges traditional natural science research domains with clinical medical studies, enabling students to deepen their knowledge in cardiovascular science.
The Ph.D. program welcomes both national and international students who hold a master's degree or equivalent in life sciences, natural sciences, medicine, or related disciplines (e.g. medical engineering, veterinary medicine, epidemiology, etc.). Physicians from Germany and abroad are also welcome. Our program offers systematic academic training in areas like cardiology, angiology, pediatric cardiology, congenital heart disease, vascular and cardiac surgery, inclusive of pediatric cardiac procedures. For those keen on specializing in 'Cardiovascular Science', this program is a unique offering 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. Annually, these diseases claim roughly 18 million lives, with over 75% of these deaths occurring in low to middle-income countries. Many public health systems struggle with the absence of standardized guidelines, qualified professionals, and the necessary medical equipment.
With our sandwich Ph.D. program, we not only want to address the interests of German students and physicians, but also the urgent global need for qualified specialists to address cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, projects can also be carried out locally in low- and middle-income countries, under the supervision of LMU University Hospital staff. This approach predominantly seeks to mitigate the so-called 'brain drain'.
Quick overview
The Ph.D. program has a duration of 3 to a maximum of 5 years.
Throughout the Ph.D. journey, students are required to acquire 180 ECTS.
The curriculum allows each student to select individual activities (based on personal interest) amounting to 30 ECTS, divided into three modules: Method Courses (17 ECTS), Conferences & Retreats (8 ECTS) and Transferable Skills (5 ECTS).The remaining credits are earned within the scope of the research work, including two Study Blocks in Munich, regular progress meetings, writing of the Ph.D. thesis, and the oral defense of the dissertation.
The program is conducted entirely in English.
The online application portal opens on 01 December of each year and closes on 31 January of the following year. The application portal for start in winter semester 2026/27 is now CLOSED!
The Ph.D. program is free of charge with the exception of the LMU enrolment fee (approx. 100 EUR per semester). The estimated living expenses in Munich range from 1000 to 1500 EUR monthly. Kindly be aware that we currently do not offer scholarships.
Here you can find information about funding opportunities outside of our Ph.D. program.
