Testimonials
I have always been curious about cancer immunotherapy, and this internship feels like the perfect foundational step.
- Nationality
- Indian
- Programme
- Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (research)
Bhoomika Sunil Bangera is a Master's student Molecular Mechanisms of Diseases.
What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why?
What I really appreciated about this programme is that, in addition to learning so much about the subject every day, it also helped me develop important real-life skills such as time management, prioritisation, and confidence. The programme consistently pushed me beyond my comfort zone, which played a meaningful role in my personal and professional growth, as I truly believe that real growth happens when you challenge yourself. Another highlight for me was the opportunity to learn fascinating topics on a daily basis from individuals who are genuinely passionate about their research. The enthusiasm and dedication of faculty created an inspiring and motivating learning environment that made the experience even more rewarding.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class (for example the relationship between students and with the teachers/researchers)?
We were quite a large cohort of 26 students, which made it especially nice to get to know people from diverse backgrounds. Everyone was extremely friendly, supportive, and always willing to help one another. The teachers and researchers were equally encouraging and kind, consistently motivating us and offering guidance whenever we found something challenging. The overall atmosphere was very positive and non-judgmental, creating a healthy and comfortable environment for learning and growth. Additionally, my classmates were genuinely enthusiastic and passionate about their respective fields, and being surrounded by such motivated individuals encouraged me to approach my own interests with the same level of energy and dedication in a positive way.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?
Personally, the most challenging part for me was the initial few months when the courses were scheduled back to back. As an international student, I was not fully prepared for such a drastic change, including the intensity of the coursework, the different examination styles, adapting to a new lifestyle, and living away from home. It took some time for me to adjust, but once I did, I could clearly see how the experience has shaped me positively and contributed to my growth as a person.
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
Yes, I am currently doing my first internship in the Tumor Immunology lab at the Radboudumc, where my work focuses on developing immune cell receptors that enable the immune system to specifically recognize cancer cells in patients with inherited cancer risks, such as Lynch syndrome. I have always been curious about cancer immunotherapy, and this internship feels like the perfect foundational step toward my long-term professional goals.
Why do you think it is important that there are people with this degree? What are your plans once you have received your Master's degree?
This degree offers the perfect combination of theoretical learning about the mechanisms of various diseases, as the name of the master’s programme suggests, and hands-on experience in exciting labs, where you gain valuable translational research skills. It provides an excellent foundation for anyone looking to continue in research or pursue a PhD. Once I complete my master’s degree, my plan is to potentially work in cancer immunotherapy, either in industry or academia.
The patient contact in the translational courses added a more human aspect. [...] their stories had a strong impact on me.
- Nationality
- Nederlands
- Programme
- Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (research)
- Country of previous education
- Nederland
Sanne Dekker is a Master's student Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (Research).
What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why?
What I really like about the programme is how it links fundamental theory with translational material across the three programme lines. I especially enjoyed the translational courses, because they connect the fundamental material to real-life disorders and applications, such as therapies.
I also liked that the programme lets you apply the theory in different ways, like giving presentations, writing grant proposals, taking part in journal clubs, and more. The patient contact in the translational courses added a more human aspect to the material. Listening to their stories had a strong impact on me.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class (for example the relationship between students and with the teachers/researchers)?
The class is relatively small, especially compared to my Bachelor’s programme (26 students versus around 150). Because of that, everyone knows each other, which is something I really appreciate. There is also much more contact with the lecturers than during my Bachelor’s, as they often encourage questions and are always happy to discuss the lecture content as well as the research they are working on.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)?
I knew I wanted to pursue a different Master’s after my Bachelor’s, so I was able to tailor my electives to broaden my knowledge and avoid any major knowledge gaps. The pace of the programme is very high, and you need to be able to absorb, process, and apply information quickly, often learning a lot of new theory in the morning and applying it in the afternoon. This was challenging at first and can be quite tiring, but it’s also a very valuable skill to have developed.
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
I very recently started my internship at the Hematology Department of the Radboudumc, where I am studying mutated CEBPA in Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Why do you think it is important that there are people with this degree? What are your plans once you have received your Master's degree?
This Master’s is a great fit for anyone who wants to pursue a career in research, as it provides both a broad theoretical foundation and strong training in soft skills. I am considering doing a PhD after MMD.
The soul of MMD is, in my opinion, the small, tight-knit cohort of hard-working and dedicated students.
- Previous education
- BSc Biomedical Sciences (Radboud University)
- Programme
- Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (research)
- Study end date
Rutger Röring was a Master's student in Molecular Mechanisms of Disease at Radboud University.
Where do you work now and what does your job entail?
As a postdoctoral researcher at the Murdoch Children's Research Institute in Melbourne, Australia, I study longitudinal childhood cohorts to explore the connections between early-life infection, subsequent inflammation, and later-life cardiovascular disease. This role, my first postdoctoral position following my PhD completion at Radboudumc's Department of Internal Medicine, involves a mix of laboratory work, data analysis, and scientific writing.
Why did you choose to work in this field?
I love immunology and wanted to gain more international experience. This job is a fantastic opportunity to develop myself and allows me to apply my skills to some very exciting projects.
What did you learn during your studies that you now use in your work?
MMD provided a fantastic foundation for my PhD and current work. The programme taught me how to work in a 'pressure cooker' and provided an environment for gaining experience in topics such as programming, poster/presentation/figure design, and of course the core business: scientific excellence.
How did you experience this programme at Radboud University? In your opinion, what made this programme special?
Two great years. The soul of MMD is, in my opinion, the small, tight-knit cohort of hard-working and dedicated students. The teachers were all very keen to transfer their knowledge and the opportunities for (international) internships were great.
What would you recommend to future students when they go to choose a study?
If you are passionate about a particular subject, you probably don't need my advice and already know what you want to do. Do it. If you're not sure yet: consider what you want to do later in life (and pick based on that) or enroll in a broad-ish programme (this will allow you to make a course-correction if needed). Talk to students currently enrolled in the programme(s) you are interested in!
The skills that I developed during MMD still help me in my professional career today.
- Previous education
- Bachelor Biomedical Sciences (Radboud University)
- Programme
- Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (research)
- Study end date
Lisa Huis in 't Veld was a Master's student in Molecular Mechanisms of Disease at Radboud University.
Where do you work now and what does your job entail?
I am currently working as a scientist at the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin (Germany). In the meantime, I am finishing my PhD project, which I did at the Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen (the Netherlands). As an academic scientist, every day looks different, and my tasks include project management, performing experiments, supervision, teaching, data analysis, presenting my data in meetings, going to conferences, and writing.
Why did you choose to work in this field?
Academic research allows me to follow my curiosity about molecular mechanisms. After 6 years in research, I still love it!
What did you learn during your studies that you now use in your work?
MMD perfectly prepared me for starting a PhD project and being a scientist. I gained plenty of lab experience during two extensive internships, working in an international environment, presentation skills, academic, critical thinking and more. The skills that I developed during MMD still help me in my professional career today.
How did you experience this programme at Radboud University? In your opinion, what made this programme special?
The quality of the MMD programme, the teachers and the opportunities were great. MMD even helped me to arrange two internships abroad in Barcelona and Berlin. One of the great things about MMD is being part of an international group of highly ambitious, smart and lovely people.
What advice do you have for students choosing a Master's programme?
If you are ambitious, looking for an extra challenge and are considering doing a PhD afterwards, you should definitely consider applying to MMD.
MMD makes students think critically about research, allowing them to develop ideas and plans to answer questions in molecular biology.
- Previous education
- (Human) Biology (Radboud University)
- Programme
- Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (research)
- Study start date
- Study end date
Master's student Theodoros Basiakos is studying Molecular Mechanisms of Disease at Radboud University.
What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why? How has the programme/specialisation challenged you?
I like that in MMD we are taught about the current research on molecular biology, by the researchers of the Radboudumc. It has a strong focus on translational research, something that I was unfamiliar with, but very excited to discover about.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class?
MMD has relatively small cohorts. This makes us very close to each other, as we face the same experiences (positive and negative) everyday. The lecturers are well established researchers who are very enthusiastic about their work and teaching, which makes it easy to approach them and discuss questions.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?
The pace is something that I was not familiar with, because there are no regular exam periods. It can be challenging to adapt to this way of studying. However, this way I can stay focused on one course at a time and get a more complete experience.
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
I am fascinated with the field of immunology and I will do an internship at the Tumour Immunology group, department Medical Biosciences of Radboudumc. I will study how tumours regulate a glycan binding protein in dendritic cells.
Why do you think it is important that there are people with this degree? What are your plans once you have received your Master's degree?
MMD makes students think critically about research, allowing them to develop ideas and plans to answer questions in molecular biology. This is an important quality for a career in research. When I graduate, I would like to explore more the immune cell interactions, hopefully, by doing a PhD in the field of immunology.
What I truly appreciate about this programme is its remarkable combination of scientific knowledge, soft skills, and student well-being.
- Previous education
- Master Biochemistry (Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran)
- Programme
- Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (research)
- Study start date
- Study end date
Master's student Maedeh Mahlooji is studying Molecular Mechanisms of Disease at Radboud University.
What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why? How has the programme/specialisation challenged you?
What I truly appreciate about this programme is its remarkable combination of scientific knowledge, soft skills, and student well-being. The schedule is thoughtfully designed, offering a mixture of lectures, workgroup presentations, and various forms of student support, including workshops, peer review groups, and individual meetings with personal mentors and study advisors. It feels like the programme truly invested in our growth and success on all levels!
A particularly exciting yet challenging aspect, especially in comparison to my previous education, is how the programme emphasizes mastering multitasking while promoting a sustainable work-life balance. With clearly designated time slots for tasks and self-study, I am learning to approach my responsibilities efficiently while dedicating evenings and weekends to personal time. This structure is not only enhancing my productivity but also equipping me with valuable habits that will undoubtedly benefit me in the future.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class (for example the relationship between students and with the teachers/researchers)?
Our class is a relatively small group of students, which has allowed us to build strong connections and foster a supportive environment. We actively communicate and assist one another in learning and growth—whether it involves academic challenges or emotional struggles. The lecturers are incredibly passionate about their subjects, as they teach topics directly related to their ongoing work and research at Radboudumc. Their enthusiasm is evident, as they warmly encourage us to ask questions at any time, fostering an engaging and interactive learning atmosphere.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?
The most challenging aspect of the programme is learning a new topic in just one or two lectures in the morning and then applying that knowledge to complete an assignment by the end of the day (a unique characteristic of the 3 MMD translational courses). Through this experience, I am learning to stay fully engaged and focused during lectures, asking questions whenever necessary to thoroughly understand the material. This approach not only helps me tackle assignments effectively but also builds skills that enhance efficiency and productivity for the future.
Why do you think it is important that there are people with this degree? What are your plans once you have received your Master's degree?
Students who complete this programme have multiple career paths to pursue. Equipped with a diverse skill set, graduates are well-prepared to embark on a PhD journey or to work in companies and laboratories, contributing to various professional fields.
Since we're all going through the same challenging programme, it's nice to have a good support system to count on.
- Previous education
- Bachelor Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (University of the Philippines Diliman)
- Programme
- Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (research)
- Study start date
- Study end date
Master's student Paolo Taracatac is studying Molecular Mechanisms of Disease at Radboud University.
What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why? How has the programme/specialisation challenged you?
I like how the courses are subdivided into (1) core fundamentals (e.g. basic molecular biology concepts) and (2) translational courses (e.g. diseases, current research), which really helps emphasize that the programme is geared towards bench-to-bedside discoveries. The patient contact during the translational courses, in particular, is my favorite since they bridge the gap between theory and reality, giving a human face to the disorders we study and grounding our work in purpose. These sessions help remind me of why I chose to pursue medical research in the first place.
What do you think about the atmosphere in class?
As a small cohort, there have been a lot of opportunities to interact with everyone both in class (e.g. through group work and presentations) and outside of class (e.g. hangouts after exams). Since we're all going through the same challenging programme, it's nice to have a good support system to count on. The teachers as well have been very enthusiastic and approachable, and they're very accommodating whenever we have questions. You can also expect to get good feedback and constructive criticism from them.
What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?
It's a very fast-paced Master's, wherein for the first few months you'll be presented with a lot of new information in the courses. On top of that, there's a lot of group work and presentations which you have to balance alongside studying for exams. As an international student, it was hard to juggle all of these responsibilities on top of adjusting to the new culture and environment, but over time I was able to find my rhythm and routine.
Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?
I will be starting my internship this coming January 2025 in the Department of Radiation Oncology in Radboudumc, where I will be trying to increase the sensitivity of hypoxic tumors to radiotherapy using various OXPHOS inhibitors.
Why do you think it is important that there are people with this degree? What are your plans once you have received your Master's degree?
In the medical field, researchers in the lab are just as important as doctors and nurses in hospitals and clinics. While medical researchers don't treat patients directly, their work drives advancements in diagnostics, treatments, and patient care by challenging the status quo and making discoveries. With this degree, I know I'll be equipped with both the fundamental and translational knowledge needed to make a significant contribution to medical research and healthcare. After the programme, I might consider doing a PhD in the field of cancer biology and precision medicine.