Training

Data Science & Health Lecture Series

The aim of this course is to introduce the doctoral researchers to the field and to give a basic understanding of all research areas of the school. In addition, it will train them to consider the different views and needs of data science and health-related sciences, and the opportunities for interdisciplinary cooperation.

This lecture is held by the PIs and Postdocs of the HIDSS4Health and invited speakers who cover additional themes. The course consists of lecture-style elements and an interactive discussion. It covers data science methods (e.g., clustering, image analysis, visualization, deep learning), domain-oriented methods (e.g., medical imaging, surgery, robotics) as well as ethical, legal and social implications.

Organization: The lecture Data Science & Health is offered online via and held in the winter term. The lecture takes place weekly and only attendance is documented. Currently, no further examinations are planned.

Life Science & Health lecture series

All incoming doctoral researchers are invited to expand their skills and knowledge in key life science topics. The thematic focus changes each semester and is delivered by the school’s principal investigators as well as invited experts in their respective fields.

The structure of these compulsory elective courses is tailored individually, allowing doctoral researchers to select modules that best match their research interests, thematic needs, and existing competencies.

Personal Skill courses

The school provides a wide portfolio of personal skills training (including leadership and language) as well as comprehensive support measures regarding internationalization, networking and career orientation. Courses such as “Introduction to German Academic Culture”, “Publishing in Scientific Journals”, and “Managing Projects” are currently offered. Furthermore, research school doctoral researchers will be encouraged to participate in the centrally-organized Helmholtz Transferable Skills Training program for doctoral researchers. Three modules, each lasting 2–3 days will provide training in

1. research skills development
2. presentation and communication
3. career and leadership.

Cross Theme Topics

Cross Theme Topics (CTTs) are a collaboration between 2–4 doctoral researchers working on related methodological problems, supported and mentored by postdocs and PIs of the school. The aim of a CTT is to leverage synergy potentials between projects (for example by sharing special skills of a doctoral researcher between projects) and to broaden the individual methodological understanding beyond the research areas. The ideal outcome of a CTT would be a joint paper, software tool or benchmark dataset. All doctoral researchers in HIDSS4Health will be encouraged to be involved in at least one CTT during his/her time in the school.

Summer Schools

Each doctoral researcher is expected to attend at least one summer school. This can be either held by the HIDSS4Health or be chosen by the doctoral student, based on their project and individual interest. These summer schools might be co-organized with other data science schools within HIDA, thus enabling all Helmholtz Information and Data Science School participants to network and encourage further collaboration.

HIDA opportunities

HIDA offers a diverse range of workshops, seminars, and events designed to support you throughout your PhD journey. Explore their course catalog to find current opportunities that enhance your knowledge and help you further develop your personal and professional skills.

HIDA course catalog