The International Master in Innovative Medicine (IMIM) is a prestigious Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programme designed to educate the next generation of leaders in translational biomedical research, innovation and entrepreneurial science. Delivered jointly by the University of Groningen, Heidelberg University, University of Tartu and Uppsala University, the IMIM Erasmus Mundus equips students with advanced scientific knowledge and practical research skills across disciplines and sectors. Prospective graduates are prepared for internationally competitive careers in academia, biotechnology, pharmaceutical industries and start-up ventures.

This two-year, 120 ECTS programme emphasises the “bench to bedside and back” translational framework, combining rigorous academic coursework, research projects, and structured mobility across partner institutions. The IMIM Erasmus Mundus integrates multidisciplinary learning with EIT Health innovation activities and Erasmus+ funded consortium events, fostering a global perspective on innovative medicine.

Key Details of the IMIM Erasmus Mundus

Feature	Details
Programme Name	International Master in Innovative Medicine
Duration	2 academic years (120 ECTS)
Degree Type	Joint Master’s Degree
Language of Instruction	English
Study Model	Year 1 at one partner institution, Year 2 at another partner institution for specialisation
Scholarship Type	Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding (IMIM EMJM scholarships)
Academic Focus	Translational biomedical research, innovation, entrepreneurial skills

Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information

Item	Detail
Status	Ongoing
Start Date	01 September 2024
End Date	31 October 2030
Action Type	Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM)

Universities and Countries Involved in IMIM Erasmus Mundus

The programme is delivered by a consortium of leading European universities:

University	Country
University of Groningen	Netherlands
Heidelberg University	Germany
University of Tartu	Estonia
Uppsala University	Sweden

Programme Structure

Year	Location	Academic Components
Year 1	Two of the partner universities	Core courses in translational medicine, innovation learning line, research preparation
Year 2	Two of the partner universities (mobility)	Advanced modules, research internships, Master’s thesis
Optional Mobility	Additional research placement	Opportunity for research at associated partner universities or in industry

Research and Industry Links

The IMIM Erasmus Mundus programme maintains strong academic and industry links through its integration with EIT Health quality frameworks and Erasmus+ consortium events such as Spring School, IPIM Summer School, and VentureLab Weekend. Students benefit from exposure to research networks in Europe and opportunities for placements at associated academic partners and private sector institutions.

Admission Requirements

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

• Bachelor’s degree (minimum equivalent to 180 ECTS) in medicine or life sciences (e.g., biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences)
• Strong academic record and motivation for translational research
• Research experience or evidence of scientific potential
• English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) where required

Required Documents

• Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts
• Proof of English proficiency
• Curriculum Vitae
• Motivation letter
• Research experience documentation (if applicable)
• Passport identification page
• Reference contact details for referees

How to Apply – Step-By-Step

1. Visit the official IMIM website.
2. Open the application portal for the relevant intake.
3. Complete personal, academic, and background sections.
4. Upload all required English PDF documents.
5. Submit referee contact information for recommendation letters.
6. Review the application thoroughly before submission.
7. Submit before the published deadline.
8. If shortlisted, prepare for interview or further evaluation.

Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake

Stage	Timeline
Applications Open	October
Application Deadline	January
Selection and Review	Febuary
Final Results Notification	March
Programme Start	September

Scholarship Benefits for IMIM Erasmus Mundus Applicants

• Coverage under Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and IMIM EMJM scholarships
• Support for tuition, travel allowance, installation and subsistence (specific amounts not published on official site)
• Participation in structured consortium events and learning activities

Guidance for a Strong Application

• Clearly articulate your motivation for translational medicine and research
• Highlight academic achievements and research involvement
• Provide strong letters of recommendation
• Ensure all documents are English and professionally prepared
• Demonstrate readiness for international and interdisciplinary study

Alumni Experience

“I finished my first year as part of the IMIM program in Uppsala, Sweden. During this year, I have learnt a lot both personally and academically. First, the courses followed were intellectually enriching as well as personally fulfilling. The innovation approach of the program prepares us for out-of-the-lab work, and the opportunity to be part of different research groups helps us find the direction of our future careers. Personally, the program has helped me grow a lot as well. The cultural variety within the cohort –with no more than 2 people from any given country-, living in a different continent, and studying science in a different language, made me much stronger and sure about myself than I was before.

Carolina Maya González

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)