The School of Oncology – advanced training platform in translational cancer research
The DKTK School of Oncology systematically supports early-career researchers and physician-scientists engaged in translational, patient-oriented cancer research. It promotes the training of “Medical Scientists” – natural scientists working in medical research – and “Clinician Scientists” – physicians in residency who are active in patient-oriented research and clinical care – and integrates them into an attractive, nationwide, interdisciplinary scientific environment. Through this approach, the School of Oncology enables participants to expand their disciplinary expertise and to deepen their understanding of translational research processes bridging basic research and clinical application.
Its objective is not only to broaden subject-specific expertise, but also to develop a comprehensive understanding of translational processes linking fundamental research and clinical implementation. The DKTK School of Oncology strengthens the continuous transfer of knowledge between research and clinical practice and enhances the international visibility and scientific competitiveness of DKTK School of Oncology Fellows in the global arena.
Medical Scientists and Clinician Scientists, who are typically at an early stage of their careers, gain continuous insight into translational cancer research and multidisciplinary oncology. Within the structured training program “Translational Cancer Research,” they acquire cross-disciplinary competencies and, through close collaboration and intensive exchange, learn to translate research findings into targeted clinical applications.
The advanced training program of the School of Oncology builds upon the existing graduate school programs at the DKTK partner sites and complements them with cross-site formats. It provides access to a broad network of scientific and clinical expertise as well as to international collaborations.
Core opportunities available to Fellows include participation in the “Annual International Summer School in Translational Cancer Research” organized by Cancer Core Europe, the DKTK Young Academics Conference, topic-specific advanced training seminars and workshops, lecture series, and exchange programs. These formats foster academic exchange, interdisciplinary dialogue, and professional networking.
The DKTK School of Oncology thus serves as a nationwide platform for the next generation of translational researchers and physicians. Through structured qualification and close interdisciplinary collaboration between research and clinical practice, it contributes to the advancement of innovative cancer research and treatment.