ESC Fund – Basic Cardiovascular Science Course 2026

Why has this course been developed?

Cardiovascular basic science is central to advancing research, bridging the gap between fundamental mechanisms and clinical practice, and improving patient care. Yet the number of trained basic scientists is declining worldwide, creating a growing challenge for future innovation.

The ESC Fund Basic Science Course responds to this need by offering an immersive, high‑quality training experience that combines core concepts with hands‑on laboratory work in leading European research centres. 

What makes this course unique?  

You will benefit from a fully funded participation package, covering:

• Registration costs
• A grant for travel and accommodation
• Grant support for the two-week hands on laboratory placement

The inclusive programme not only encourages, but supports, candidates, including those from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) . You do not need to be an ESC Member to take part in this course.   

A bridge for breakthroughs: from basic to clinical

The course strengthens scientific reasoning and fosters collaboration between clinical and non-clinical researchers, essential for future cardiovascular innovation.  

A world-class learning experience  

The course is structured across three weeks:  

• 10–14 June:  One week of in-person training in Nice (France), to cover genetics, molecular biology, preclinical models, regenerative medicine, research methodology, mentoring and regulatory affairs.
• July – December: Two weeks of hands-on learning during a placement in a leading European laboratory. You will benefit from practical immersion, working on real-world cardiovascular research through supervised projects and skills development.

Who should apply?  

If you are a PhD, MD or MD/PhD student, or you are a researcher who has completed your PhD, MD or MD/PHD within the past five years, this ESC Fund Basic Science Course is for you! We have places for up to 50 candidates who are:  

• Early-career researchers working in basic or clinical cardiovascular science   
• Clinicians seeking a deeper understanding of fundamental mechanisms  
• Basic scientists aiming to engage more closely with translational research  
• Other non-clinical profiles including data analysts and public health researchers

We want broad global representation in this course, so we welcome applications from across the globe. Grants are available to support all candidates.   

 Selection is based on merit, motivation and alignment with the course objectives.  

Expected outcomes  

By the end of the course, participants will have:  

• Built a stronger foundation in cardiovascular science  
• Aquired skills that support translational and clinical research
• Gained exposure to high-quality laboratory environments  
• Expanded their professional network  
• Increased career sustainability and long-term research impact 

Timeline and procedure

• 16 March: Application deadline.
• Early spring: Selection results will be communicated.  

Shortly after their application is received, all pre-selected applicants will be asked to submit an abstract that reflects their research interests and which is aligned with week one of the course.  This will help us ensure that you have a solid research foundation and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the course discussions and practical work. The abstract must be 250–300 words and include:  

• Background, working hypothesis, main objective  
•  Strategy (type of approach, main technology, innovative aspects)  
•   Expected results and (optional) preliminary results)  
•  Scientific outlook (plausible impact of the expected results)