Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, founded in 1472, is one of Europe’s leading research universities, internationally recognized for its excellence in medicine and science. Its Faculty of Medicine enrolls over 7,000 students, offering the Munich Medical Curriculum (MeCuM)—a modern, modular program that blends early clinical exposure with a robust scientific foundation. Students move through preclinical and clinical phases, followed by up to eight months of mandatory research semester and a practical year, gaining a well-rounded education that integrates theory and hands-on clinical practice.
In line with its commitment to research-based medical training, the Education Department of the Institut Pasteur welcomes LMU’s outstanding medical students to undertake laboratory internships in Paris. Through the MD-PhD program, leading LMU students selected via the Student Excellence Program (StEP) have the opportunity to engage in innovative biomedical research under expert mentorship at various Institut Pasteur laboratories. This experience helps budding physician-scientists develop crucial research skills and fosters a deeper understanding of translational science.
About the StEP Program
The StEP program is a one-year enrichment opportunity for top clinical-phase medical students. Each year, 10 students are chosen from a large pool of applicants. StEP emphasizes targeted development, offering soft-skills workshops, career talks, mentorship sessions, and a dedicated retreat. Students also gain international exposure through clinical rotations at Weill Cornell Medical College or research experiences at institutions like Harvard Medical School and the Institut Pasteur. By blending clinical and research pathways, StEP helps participants advance their academic careers and prepare for leadership roles in medicine.
Scholarships
StEP scholarships cover tuition, travel, and living expenses for international placements. The Institut Pasteur research laboratories provide additional financial support, and accomodation is assured by the Education Department's Housing Office.
Calls and selections
The StEP Research Track is open to LMU medical students in the clinical phase. Students already in their practical year are not eligible. Strong academic records and extracurricular involvement are prerequisites. Applications for the 2025/26 cohort will be accepted from January 11 to May 7, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed on June 4, following invitations sent by May 26. Final scholarship decisions will be announced by late June 2025. For more information, consult the dedicated webpage.
Contacts
Inga Koerte, Prof. Dr. med., StEP program officer
Wencke Vonderhagen, M.A., Coordinator International Board LMU Medicine & International Academic Networks
Monica Sala, Dr., Vice President Education, Institut Pasteur