This project aims to train students in cutting-edge research in the field of heart transplant immunology. It aims to provide participants with theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for advanced academic or industry careers in the field of biomedical sciences. The target group includes graduate students, researchers, and postdoctoral researchers who are passionate about the field of heart transplantation.

· Weekly mentorship meetings with Prof. Ma and a multidisciplinary research team

· Access to advanced laboratory facilities, including flow cytometry and CRISPR editing platforms

· Real-time involvement in clinical trials and basic research projects

· Opportunities to publish articles or abstracts in peer-reviewed journals and present research posters or papers at conferences

· Critical thinking, analytical, and practical inquiry skills utilizing the latest approaches in healthcare and medical research

· Skills in critical appraisal, research design, and understanding of the entire medical research process

· Understanding the Frontiers of Immunology in Heart Transplantation

· Proficient in cutting-edge laboratory technologies, such as single-cell sequencing

· Gain experience in clinical trial design and analysis

· Develop skills in scientific writing and funding preparation

8 weeks

· Molecular mechanism research and immune intervention of myocardial ischemia and heart transplantation.

· Comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of end-stage heart failure.

· Mechanism research of aortic dissection.

· Mechanism and clinical application of interventional valve technology. 

· Mechanism research and clinical application of pulsed electric field myocardial ablation.

Undergraduate students:

Candidates should be enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in biology, biochemistry, or a related field. Prior coursework in molecular biology or immunology is preferred. Basic proficiency in English or Chinese is required.

Graduate students:

Candidates must be enrolled in a Master's, M.D. or Ph.D. program in biomedicine, immunology, or a related field. Familiarity with research methodologies and laboratory techniques is required. Fluency in English or Chinese is mandatory.

Researcher fellows:

Applicants should have an advanced degree (M.Sc. M.D. Ph.D. or equivalent) in a biomedical discipline with some prior research experience. Candidates must demonstrate an ability to work independently and contribute to team projects. Proficiency in English or Chinese is essential.

Doctors:

Candidates must hold an M.D. degree with clinical experience, preferably in Cardiovascular Surgery. Research experience is not mandatory but is a strong advantage. Applicants must be fluent in English or Chinese.

Postdocs:

Postdoctoral fellows should have a Ph.D. in biomedicine, immunology, or an M.D. with clinical training in medicine, or the equivalent of education, training and experience. Candidates should be fluent in English.

Daily Training Schedule (Example):

Monday:

9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Lecture on Basics of transplantation immunology

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Wet lab training

Tuesday:

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Workshop on bioinformatics tools for biomarker discovery

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Journal club: Discussing recent papers in heart transplantation

Wednesday:

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Data analysis for clinical trial results

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: One-on-one mentorship meetings

Program Training Schedule (Example):

1. Introduction & Welcome

Time Duration: (1 day)

Activities:

· Workshop overview and objectives

· Introduction of facilitators/tutors

2. Foundational Session

Time Duration: ( 1 week)

Topics:

· Key concepts and theories related to the research focus

· Literature review or background studies

Format: Lecture, interactive Q&A, or multimedia presentations

3. Practical/Hands-On Session

Time Duration: (3 weeks)

Activities:

· Demonstrations of research tools or methods (e.g. lab equipment, software)

· Practice exercises where participants replicate a research technique

· Guided small-group activities for solving a case or analyzing data

4. Focused Research Topics

Time Duration: (3 weeks)

Topics:

· Specialized areas of the research focus (e.g. recent trends, challenges, or advanced techniques)

Format: Interactive lectures, panel discussions, or guest speakers

5. Collaborative Session

Time Duration: (1 week)

Activities:

· Group projects or brainstorming sessions

· Problem-solving exercises or simulations

6. Wrap-Up & Reflection

Time Duration: (2 days)

Activities:

· Participant presentations or discussion of key takeaways

· Feedback session (e.g. online survey or live Q&A)

Assessment Methods:

· Submission of a final research report summarizing lab work and findings

· Practical assessments during wet lab sessions

· Certificates provided upon successful completion of the program

Feedback for Participants:

Participants can submit anonymous feedback via an online form at the end of the program. One-on-one feedback sessions will also be scheduled midway through the program.

The program is free of charge.