From left to right: Prof. N. Werbeck (Dean of Studies MTZ), Prof. M. Egert (former Dean of Studies), Prof. U. Fasol, A-L Jenewein (Alumna), Prof. M. Burger (Deputy Dean of Studies), I. Weber, (Alumna), Dr. J. Abele (Alumna), Dr. B. Fritz (Assistant to the Director of Studies), M. Schilling (Alumnus), Nicola Kwapil (Alumnus), Marco J. Alber (Alumnus), Dr. A. Monteleone (Alumnus) Photo: Michaela Knöpfle (mariposaphotography)
The 2nd Alumni Afternoon in the Molecular and Technical Medicine degree programme was a complete success, impressively demonstrating how diverse and successful the paths of our graduates can be.
On 23.05.2025, the 2nd Alumni Afternoon of the Molecular and Technical Medicine (MTZ) bachelor's degree programme took place at HFU.
Six graduates took the opportunity to present and discuss their individual career paths with current students and lecturers. The testimonials impressively showed how diverse the career opportunities are after the MTZ degree − both with a Bachelor's degree and in connection with further Master's courses or a doctorate.
Academic and professional development
Some alumni reported on their academic careers at HFU or other renowned universities − including Oxford or Cambridge. Others decided to enter professional life directly after completing their bachelor's degree and were able to successfully gain a foothold there. Non-linear careers − for example via previous training courses − also led to their goal and exciting professional positions.
The former students work:
- in the pharmaceutical industry
- in the field of medical affairs and clinical studies
- as a pediatric perfusionist (pediatric cardiotechnician)
- in diagnostics (personalized medicine / pathology)
- as co-founder of their own company.
Experience abroad and continuous development
Many of the alumni emphasised the positive influence of stays abroad, for example during the internship semester, a semester abroad or during the thesis, especially with regard to entering the pharmaceutical industry, but also for personal development. The students were given tips on scholarships or how to apply for funding.
Professional development, occasional job changes and targeted further training were cited as the key to long-term success. There was agreement that career paths do not always have to be straightforward − what is important above all is the willingness to actively accept new challenges, to get to know and develop one's own interests and strengths and not to be discouraged.
Importance of studying at the HFU
Looking back, alumni described the MTZ degree programme at HFU as an excellent preparation for their careers. They particularly emphasised:
- the practical training
- the modern laboratory equipment
- the scientifically sound approach
- the understanding of interdisciplinary contexts
- the opportunity to gain a wide range of insights as part of practical semesters and theses.
Motivation and prospects
The alumni conveyed a clear message − we often limit ourselves - but if you believe in yourself, remain authentic and have the courage to try new things, you can achieve many great things.
An open and enquiring approach to challenges, commitment beyond their studies, the establishment of networks and the willingness to continuously develop were named as key success factors. At the same time, HFU was praised as a supportive place to study - particularly with regard to supervision, individual support and accessibility for students from non-academic backgrounds.
The bachelor's degree in MTZ offers a stable and practice-oriented foundation on which individual careers can be built − be it in direct career entry or through further qualifications.
