The MorphoPHEN Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Human Diseases Models Morphological Phenotyping is a one-year, 60 ECTS interdisciplinary programme designed to train highly qualified professionals capable of addressing the critical shortage of expertise in mouse morphological phenotyping. This emerging discipline is essential for advancing translational preclinical research, improving our understanding of human disease mechanisms, and fostering the development of innovative therapeutics from bench to bedside. The programme’s integrated curriculum combines core elements of anatomy, pathology, advanced imaging, and deep learning while cultivating research proficiency across leading European institutions.

Launched as an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master and supported by the European Union’s Erasmus+ framework, MorphoPHEN Erasmus Mundus offers a unique opportunity for outstanding graduates from relevant biomedical fields to pursue rigorous academic and practical training across multiple European countries. Students engage with world-class faculty, multidisciplinary industry partners, and hands-on research modules designed to build deep expertise in human disease model phenotyping. Graduates emerge well-prepared for doctoral research roles, biomedical research positions, or specialist roles in academia and industry.

Key Details of the MorphoPHEN Erasmus Mundus

Feature	Details
Programme Name	MorphoPHEN Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Human Diseases Models Morphological Phenotyping
Duration	1 academic year (60 ECTS)
Degree Type	Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree
Language of Instruction	English
Study Model	Semester 1 at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Semester 2 at University of Naples Federico II (UNINA) and Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH) with dissertation option at any partner
Scholarship Type	Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships
Academic Focus	Mouse Anatomy, Pathobiology, Imaging, Deep Learning, and Research Dissertation

Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information

Item	Detail
Status	Ongoing
Start Date	01 October 2022
End Date	30 November 2028
Action Type	Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM)

Universities and Countries Involved in MorphoPHEN Erasmus Mundus

University	Country
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona	Spain
University of Naples Federico II	Italy
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki	Greece
University of Lisbon	Portugal

Programme Structure

Year	Location	Academic Components
Semester 1	Spain – Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona	Core modules: Mouse Anatomy and Pathobiology (10 ECTS)
Semester 1	Italy – University of Naples Federico II	Core modules: Mouse Imaging (20 ECTS)
Semester 2	Greece – Aristotle University of Thessaloniki	Core modules: Deep Learning & Experimental Design (20 ECTS)
Dissertation	Any Partner University	Master’s Dissertation (10 ECTS)

Research and Industry Links

The MorphoPHEN Erasmus Mundus programme leverages a high-level multidisciplinary network of academic institutions and associated partners, including renowned European mouse clinics, research institutions, and industry stakeholders to enrich academic training with real-world expertise and research perspectives. The strong links with global consortia and specialised facilities enhance students’ exposure to cutting-edge methodologies and collaborative projects across the biomedical sector.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the MorphoPHEN Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:

• A bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Pharmacy, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, or closely related fields.
• English language proficiency at CEFR Level C1 or equivalent (valid certificates such as TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge).
• Academic transcripts and official degree certification.
• Motivation to pursue research-driven biomedical training.

Required Documents

Candidates should prepare the following for submission:

• Official academic certificates and transcripts (translated if necessary).
• Proof of English proficiency.
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Copy of identity document or passport.
• Motivation letter.
• Scientific essay (maximum two pages).

How to Apply – Step-By-Step

1. Create a student ID on the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) portal.
2. Access the application portal and select the MorphoPHEN programme.
3. Fill in personal and academic data.
4. Upload all required documents in English.
5. Review and submit the application before the deadline.
6. Await correspondence from the selection committee regarding admissions decisions.

Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake

Stage	Timeline
Applications Open	December
Application Deadline	March
Selection and Review	April
Final Results Notification	April/May
Programme Start	September

Scholarship Benefits for MorphoPHEN Erasmus Mundus Applicants

• Erasmus+ funding covering participation costs and joint programme fees.
• Monthly stipend and health insurance coverage for the duration of the programme.
• Travel support and integration grants for eligible candidates.
• Consortium scholarship opportunities for high-achieving applicants.

Guidance for a Strong Application

• Emphasise motivation for joining an interdisciplinary phenotyping curriculum.
• Highlight relevant biomedical or research experience.
• Provide a compelling scientific essay tailored to the programme’s objectives.
• Demonstrate readiness for international study and research collaboration.
• Ensure all documents are complete and professionally presented.

Alumni Experience

Graduates of the MorphoPHEN Erasmus Mundus programme report strong research preparation and enhanced career prospects in translational biomedical science. Alumni pursue doctoral studies, research roles in academic and industrial settings, and specialised positions in preclinical phenotyping and disease modelling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)