In the face of global health crises and growing public health challenges, strengthening the links between scientific research (both fundamental and applied) and clinical practice has become essential. Recognizing this need, the Institut Pasteur has launched the MD-PhD program as part of its “Pasteur 2030” strategic plan, aiming to engage the Institute in training physician-scientists who can effectively respond to health emergencies by combining clinical expertise and scientific excellence.
Global epidemics, emerging infections, and the impact of climate change on health have shown that current health challenges require a swift and coordinated response between scientists and clinicians. While scientists are tasked with understanding the root causes of diseases, developing diagnostic tools, and creating treatments, physicians are on the front lines treating patients. However, their individual disciplines are no longer sufficient. We need physicians who can understand both patients, the biological mechanisms of diseases, and the research processes that allow for the development of adapted therapeutic solutions, in other words, physicians trained and connected to the world of scientific research.
Why an MD-PhD Program?
The goal of the MD-PhD program is to train physician-scientists who, by combining clinical skills and cutting-edge research, will contribute to addressing the major health challenges of the 21st century. These healthcare professionals will be better prepared to respond to global health emergencies, not only by treating individuals but also by contributing to the development of global solutions for complex health issues. Among these challenges are emerging infections, the growing resistance to antibiotics, the impact of climate change on health, and the rise in chronic an non-communicable diseases, such as cancer.
Combining medical training, advanced research, and tailored supportThis new doctoral program at the Institut Pasteur offers a flexible curriculum that allows participants to combine top-tier medical and scientific education. Depending on their status, whether they are medical students or practicing physicians, they can choose between a research internship, an early or late-stage thesis, and explore various fields such as infectious diseases, immunology, public health, and more. This scientific training model guarantees full immersion in the research world while enabling medical students or physicians to continue their training or clinical practice. Doctoral students will have the opportunity to work on projects directly related to global health challenges. The Institut Pasteur, with its 146 research units, 16 National Reference Centers (CNR), and 7 WHO collaborating centers, allows each participant to carry out research in strategic fields such as pandemic management, new infectious threats, or the impact of climate change on health. To ensure a successful and fulfilling experience, doctoral students also benefit from dedicated support within the Doctoral Student Office. This office, designed to meet the professional and personal needs of doctoral scientists, helps physicians and medical students with their campus integration, their relationships with affiliated universities, and their well-being throughout their thesis. |
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Collaboration: the engine of innovation
One of the program’s strengths lies in its collaborative approach to training. Each doctoral student benefits from dual mentorship, scientific and clinical, ensuring a balance between research training and medical practice. This structure fosters interdisciplinary exchanges and allows participants to maintain direct ties with the clinical world while developing a global vision of public health issues.
Moreover, this collaborative approach is reflected in partnerships with world-leading institutions. MD-PhD participants work alongside scientists, clinicians, and experts from diverse fields, enhancing the quality of their training.
The Institut Pasteur also offers a unique environment with a national and international network of research institutes and academic partners. Through collaborations with prestigious universities, Parisian hospitals, and European academic alliances (EUGLOH), the MD-PhD program paves the way for varied research opportunities. Participants can access high-level scientific events, specialized training, and international opportunities.
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An essential program for the challenges of tomorrowThe Institut Pasteur MD-PhD program actively contributes to the creation of a European and international network of physician-scientists, combining leading-edge research and clinical reality. These professionals will be at the heart of medical innovation, shaping a more resilient future in the face of global health challenges to come. |
