The Weizmann Institute of Science MD-PhD program in honor of Miriam and Aaron Gutwirth, is an innovative and interdisciplinary journey designed to train the next generation of physician-scientists. This newly launched program provides a unique opportunity for students to integrate advanced medical education with groundbreaking research, preparing them to become future leaders in medicine and science.
As part of the MD-PhD program, students will gain access to world-class research facilities and work alongside leading scientists and clinicians. Designed for those who aspire to bridge the gap between medicine and scientific discovery, this program ensures graduates will be equipped with the skills to make meaningful contributions to both fields.
By combining rigorous medical training with cutting-edge scientific research, this program ensures that graduates will be equipped with the skills to make meaningful contributions to both fields. As a medical PhD program, it fosters an environment where students can develop expertise in both clinical practice and biomedical research, supported by the renowned faculty and research facilities of the Weizmann Institute of Science.
Program Overview
Duration: 7.5 years (plus internship and residency)
Objective: To integrate advanced medical training with groundbreaking scientific research, preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions to both fields.
Program Phases
Prior to the 1st Academic Year
- Intensive Preparatory Training:
Students undergo rigorous training in foundational skills, including R, statistics and Python, to ensure readiness for computational and research challenges.
Year 1: Foundations
Years 2–6: PhD Research
- Interdisciplinary Research:
Conduct PhD research with access to over 250 research groups at WIS in diverse fields such as Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Computer Science.
- Integrated Learning:
A flexible approach combining PhD research with early clinical training, fostering critical thinking and innovation.
- Medical Research Education (Weekly):
Continues throughout the research phase.
Year 6: Bridging Research and Medicine
- Medical and Research Education (Weekly):
Continues to develop professional skills, preparing students for the clinical phase.
- Sick Body Systems Course:
A 24-week course focusing on:
- Disease mechanisms and identification
- Clinical manifestations and treatment integration across body systems
- Development of diagnostic and patient management skills
Years 7–8: Clinical Rotations
- Clinical Clerkships:
- 66 weeks of rotations across key specialties, including:
- Internal Medicine
- Pediatrics
- Gynecology
- Psychiatry
- Surgery
- Neurology
- Family Medicine
- 15-week elective rotation in the student’s specialty of choice.
- Medical Research Education (Weekly):
Continues throughout the clinical phase, reinforcing professionalism and patient-centered care.
Post-Program Training
- Internship (1 Year):
Hands-on clinical training.
- Residency (4–6 Years):
Conducted at Israel's leading hospitals, offering specialization opportunities.
Rules and Requirements
- Academic Performance:
- Minimum grade of 70 in each course.
- Overall average of 75 or higher in pre-clinical core courses is required to advance to the PhD and clinical studies.
- Attendance:
- Full attendance is mandatory for all courses and training sessions.
- Progression Standards:
- Students must meet all academic and attendance requirements to progress through the program.
