Ph.D. Medical Research - Cardiovascular Science
Ph.D. candidates are enrolled at LMU Munich throughout the duration of the program. Upon successful completion of the three-year curriculum, graduates are awarded the degree Ph.D. Medical Research – Cardiovascular Science.
The program combines structured academic training with independent research. Participants are required to complete 30 ECTS credits of coursework across six semesters, attend the mandatory study blocks in Munich, and conduct a research project that leads to publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
The Ph.D. program concludes with the submission of the doctoral thesis and a final oral defense.
Modes of Study
Traditional (Munich-based) Track
The Munich-based Ph.D. track allows you to live and work full-time in Munich while carrying out your doctoral research at LMU, LMU University Hospital, or associated research institutes such as Helmholtz or Max Planck. The typical duration is between 3–5 years, during which you are fully integrated into your hosting department and research environment.
Research funding and employment are usually provided directly by your supervisor or the hosting institute. Depending on your project, additional travel for research exchanges, collaborations, or conferences may be expected. This track is often the more convenient option for candidates from the EU or those planning to relocate to Germany for the full duration of their Ph.D.
Sandwich Track
The Sandwich Ph.D. track is designed for candidates who wish to conduct their doctoral research primarily in their home country or at another research institute outside LMU/ Munich, while benefiting from structured academic input and international exchange opportunities in Munich. This track is especially suitable for international candidates or researchers based outside Munich.
Students in the Sandwich track join the Ph.D. cohort during two mandatory 8-week study blocks in Munich, while their main research project remains embedded at their home institution abroad or at another research institute in Germany outside LMU/LMU University Hospital. This allows students to maintain their local research networks and career development while building strong academic connections in Munich.
The time spent in Munich is usually limited to the study blocks (two times 8-weeks), which often makes visa procedures easier and helps reduce travel and living costs. Candidates in this track must secure their own funding for research, travel, accommodation, and living expenses, for example through their home institution, DAAD scholarships, or other funding bodies.
