How to Apply for the Scholarship for the BRIDGE Postdoctoral Fellowship in Translational Medicine at the University of Copenhagen
The University of Copenhagen’s BRIDGE – Translational Excellence Programme offers a prestigious, two-year Postdoctoral Fellowship in Translational Medicine, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. This program aims to develop the next generation of leaders in translational medicine by providing world-class education, mentoring, and research opportunities. Below, we cover everything you need to know about the fellowship and the application process.
What is the Scholarship for the BRIDGE Postdoctoral Fellowship?
The BRIDGE Fellowship is a unique, comprehensive program designed to equip fellows with the skills to bridge the gap between biomedical research and clinical practice. Selected PhD graduates undergo rigorous training in translational medicine, working with mentors from basic science, clinical practice, and the life sciences industry to bring new discoveries closer to real-world applications in healthcare.
Core Elements of the Fellowship
The fellowship is built on three essential components:
- Education: Fellows complete 15 specialized courses covering key areas of translational medicine, learning how to convert biomedical research findings into clinical applications.
- Mentoring: Each fellow collaborates closely with mentors from various fields, gaining valuable interdisciplinary insights into the translational research process.
- Research: Fellows conduct independent research projects, applying scientific discoveries and technologies to clinical or industry settings.
Why Pursue a BRIDGE Fellowship?
With the rapid advancements in biomedical science, there is an increasing need for skilled translational researchers who can bring innovative discoveries from the lab to patient care. The BRIDGE Fellowship provides fellows with:
- Cutting-Edge Knowledge: Through a curriculum focused on translational medicine, fellows develop the skills to navigate the complex interactions between research and clinical application.
- Valuable Networking: Fellows engage with a community of co-fellows, mentors, and industry leaders, expanding their professional networks and gaining collaborative opportunities.
- Career Growth: Graduates of the BRIDGE program are recognized as leaders in translational medicine, equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience to excel in academia, healthcare, or industry.
Key Activities and Experiences
- Specialized Courses: Over two years, fellows complete 15 courses in translational medicine, acquiring the skills necessary to transition discoveries into the clinical space.
- Collaborative Research: Fellows work on projects that aim to transform laboratory findings into tangible improvements in patient care.
- Mentorship: Fellows gain guidance from mentors across multiple disciplines, learning to collaborate effectively and translate scientific findings into practical applications.
Testimonials from Previous Fellows
Many fellows have highlighted the transformative impact of the BRIDGE Fellowship on their careers. Here’s what some of them had to say:
- “The BRIDGE Translational Excellence Postdoctoral Fellowship is already a seal of quality which I do not have to explain to colleagues and networks any longer. Through the educational curriculum, the unique team of co-fellows, and work with my project, I have become a more independent researcher with strong collaborations.”
– Lærke Gasbjerg, MD, PhD, BRIDGE Fellow 2020-2023 - “The BRIDGE Programme has given me the best of three worlds: collaboration with the university’s analytical facilities, access to clinical studies, and expert industry knowledge. This has expanded my network and made the journey joyful, despite the huge workload.”
– Grith Stougaard Højfeldt, MSc, PhD, BRIDGE Fellow 2021-2023 - READ: How to Apply for the $50000 ProVeg Grants For Innovators: Funding for Diet-Change Projects Worldwide
Application Process
To apply for the BRIDGE Postdoctoral Fellowship, follow these steps:
- Prepare Your Documents: Applicants need to submit:
- A cover letter
- A CV
- Contact information for three references
- Submit Your Application: Email your application to bridge@sund.ku.dk with the subject line “BRIDGE Postdoctoral Fellowship Application.” You can visit them >> here
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: February 16, 2025
The BRIDGE Fellowship opens doors for PhDs in translational medicine to build impactful careers in both research and clinical application. This program is a valuable opportunity for those passionate about bridging scientific discovery with patient care.