ESC Fund - Basic Cardiovascular Science Course

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:  

• One week of in-person training to cover genetics, molecular biology, preclinical models, regenerative medicine, research methodology, mentoring and regulatory affairs.
• 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? 

We have places for up to 50 candidates, if you meet one of the the eligibility criteria below, this ESC Fund Basic Science Course is for you!

Applicants with a medical degree (MD) must be either:

• In the final year of an MD/PhD programme or residency training in cardiology (or another cardiovascular-related specialty); or
• Within five years of completing an MD, a residency in cardiology (or another cardiovascular-related specialty), a PhD, or an MD/PhD programme.

Applicants without a medical degree must be either:

• In the final year of a PhD or equivalent research degree in cardiovascular science; or
• Within five years of completing such a degree.

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 
• Acquired 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 

Procedure

To be considered for the participation in Course, please submit an abstract, an up-to-date CV, and a cover letter – all in English.

We recommend a following structure for your abstract: 

• Background
• Working hypothesis
• Main objective
• Strategy (type of approach, main technology, innovative aspects)
• Expected results
• Optional - Preliminary results
• Scientific outlook (plausible impact of the expected results)

Applications for the ESC Fund – Basic Cardiovascular Science Course are now being accepted until Friday, 23 October.