Description of the School

The Specialisation School in Clinical Pathology and Clinical Biochemistry aims to provide solid theoretical and practical training in the main areas of biomedical sciences and laboratory diagnostics.

Within the integrated common core, trainees acquire in-depth knowledge in molecular biology and pathology, pathophysiology, general pathology, immunology and immunopathology. This knowledge is complemented by clinical insights from both medical and surgical areas, fostering a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of laboratory medicine.

Basic learning objectives include the acquisition of fundamental skills in analytical and biological chemistry, health statistics, molecular biology, and general pathology. This stage is further enriched with knowledge in oncology, immunology and immunopathology, as well as theoretical-practical and managerial skills necessary for laboratory medicine practice.

Specific learning objectives of the School focus on laboratory diagnostics applied to pathophysiology, human pathology, reproductive medicine, sports medicine, and environmental medicine.

The curriculum also includes the development and implementation of tools for project planning and quality control, as well as molecular genetic analysis applied to genetic pathology and forensic medicine. Additional topics covered include transplant medicine, hygiene, and community medicine. Core aspects such as laboratory safety, waste management, current legislation, and medical ethics are also addressed.

Related and integrative objectives promote the integration of laboratory diagnostics with various medical specialties, including internal medicine, hematology, endocrinology, gynecology, transplant surgery, and occupational medicine. The programme provides competencies in public health, healthcare management, laboratory organisation and legislation, as well as IT skills and quality assurance according to national and international standards.

The specialist in Clinical Pathology and Clinical Biochemistry possesses theoretical, scientific, and professional knowledge in diagnostic-clinical pathology, laboratory methodology, cytopathology, immunohematology, genetic pathology, and the diagnostic application of cellular and molecular methods in human pathology. They are competent in laboratory diagnostics in oncology, preventive medicine, transfusion medicine, and in the management of biobanks and highly specialised laboratories.

The Specialisation School has a limited number of positions (local quota).
Candidates eligible to apply must hold a Master’s Degree in Biology (LM-6), Agricultural and Food Biotechnology (LM-7), Industrial Biotechnology (LM-8), Medical, Veterinary or Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (LM-9), Pharmacy and Industrial Pharmacy (LM-13), Chemistry (LM-54), or the corresponding old-system degrees, and must possess professional licensure.

Applicants with degrees obtained abroad and/or non-EU citizens residing abroad must comply with the requirements specified in the public call for applications.

It is also possible for candidates who do not yet hold professional licensure at the application deadline to submit their application “sub conditione”, provided they obtain the required qualification by the start date of enrolment.