Join us as a student

Application deadlines: Semmelweis University – 10 May · University of Szeged – 15 May · University of Pécs – 15 May
Join our “learning by doing” PhD Programme – As a student

Translational medicine, strong mentoring, 4-year (2+2) structure. Find the steps, funding options, and timelines below.

What we offer — at a glance

Hybrid PhD & residency track
Healthcare delivery science in practice
Meta-analysis, registry, clinical trial focus
Biostatistics & clinical pharmacology foundations
Independent research with mentorship
Career pathway (SML → SME, coordination roles)

Target audience

  • Holders of a university MSc (bicyclic higher education) and final-year MSc students (≤ 6 months to graduation) from medical, dental, pharmaceutical or related faculties.
  • Good English communication skills recommended (min. B2; see CEFR).

Funding & fees

Hungarian/EU students HU/EU

  • State scholarship: HUF 140,000/month during coursework, then HUF 180,000/month.
  • Stipendium Hungaricum — available under specific conditions.
  • Self-funded option also available per institutional rules.

International students International

  • Registration fee: €75
  • Tuition (non-EU): €20,000 / year
  • Stipendium Hungaricum — available via scholarship call.

Exact eligibility and amounts depend on institutional and applicant status.

Key dates

  • Registration opens: 1 January
  • Webinar: 15 April, 18:00 (CET)
  • Pre-registration: 1 May
  • Final application: 17 May
  • Interviews: 1–3 July
  • Notification: 19 July
  • Programme start: 24 August

How to apply

Pre-registration on this page — provide your name, contact details, and preferred field/topic.
Phone consultation — we help you prepare the official application, clarify details, and advise on topic selection.
Official university application — follow current requirements: SZTE / Semmelweis.
Application fee — upload proof of payment to the form.
Interview — short professional and motivation discussion.
Decision & enrolment — upon acceptance, you’ll receive the next steps.

What you need to apply

For pre-registration

  • Name
  • Contact details (email, phone)
  • Field / proposed topic

Official application — by university

The required data and document list varies by institution.

FAQ

Eligibility
MSc graduates and final-year MSc students (≤ 6 months to graduation). Good English communication skills recommended (min. B2).
Format & location
Hybrid delivery: e-learning courses + in-person workshops/consultations and research.
Supervision model
You’ll work with an assigned or chosen supervisor by topic, supported by a methodology advisor and a biostatistician to ensure efficient, high-quality research.
Research areas
Broad translational medicine portfolio (paediatrics, OB-GYN, gastroenterology, critical care, dentistry, etc.).
Publication & PhD requirements
  • To obtain a PhD degree, at least two (2) first-author papers are required; the extent and quality of research also matter.
  • Quality thresholds: SCImago Q1 journals and cumulative IF ≥ 5.0; justified exceptions may apply.
  • Study designs: everyone starts with a meta-analysis; then registry/clinical trial/case report/systematic review, etc.

See the Rules & Regulations for full details.

How does the 2+2 structure work?
Complex Exam at the end of Year 2; focused research and publications in Years 3–4.
Scholarships or discounts
State-funded places for eligible EU students; Stipendium Hungaricum available; non-EU applicants typically self-funded tuition.
Installments
Not available.
Documents to submit

For pre-registration: name, contact details, field/topic.

Official application (varies by university): SZTE / Semmelweis.

Interview
20–30 min online discussion about background, motivation and project ideas.
Selection criteria
Motivation, methodological fit, collaboration skills, English, and alignment with topic areas.
Deferral / transfers
Possible with justified reasons and approval from your supervisor and the CTM (TMK).
Contact

All you need to know

Curated videos about the application process, programme structure, and student journey.

TM Student

All you need to know – Part 1

Centre for Translational Medicine

TM Student

All you need to know – Part 2

Centre for Translational Medicine

TM Student

All you need to know – Part 3

Centre for Translational Medicine

TM Student

All you need to know – Part 4

Centre for Translational Medicine

TM Student

All you need to know – Part 5

Centre for Translational Medicine

TM Student

All you need to know – Part 6

Centre for Translational Medicine

TM Student

All you need to know – Part 7

Centre for Translational Medicine

TM Student

All you need to know – Part 8

Centre for Translational Medicine

TM Student

All you need to know – Part 9

Centre for Translational Medicine