The ninth cohort of the Master of Multidisciplinary Research in Experimental Sciences (MMRES) has completed the programme, culminating in the public defence of their Master’s theses and a graduation ceremony at Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF).
The ninth cohort of the MMRES
Twenty-four students representing eight nationalities and a wide range of academic backgrounds—from Engineering Physics to Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnology—have completed the programme after carrying out original research projects in laboratories across the BIST Community centres and the Department of Medicine and Life Sciences (MELIS) at UPF.
Offered by Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) in collaboration with the BIST Community, the Master of Multidisciplinary Research in Experimental Sciences (MMRES) is a highly hands-on programme that combines advanced coursework with research training in leading laboratories. Students complete a major research project, complemented by a shorter placement in a second laboratory, broadening their scientific perspective, acquiring new techniques and experiencing different research environments.
Public presentation of Master’s theses
On 16 and 17 July, students presented the results of their research during the public defence of their Master’s theses before academic panels. The presentations showcased projects spanning a wide range of disciplines, highlighting both the students’ diverse backgrounds and the interdisciplinary nature of the programme.
The thesis marks the culmination of a year spent working alongside researchers in internationally recognised laboratories, contributing to ongoing scientific projects while developing the skills needed for a future research career.
A joint graduation ceremony at UPF
The graduation ceremony took place on 7 July at UPF’s Ciutadella campus, bringing together graduates from the MMRES and four other Master’s programmes offered by the University’s MELIS Department.
The ceremony opened with a welcome address by Francesc Calafell, Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, followed by a graduation lecture by Héctor Huerga, a former student of UPF’s Master’s in Biomedicine and now Junior Group Leader at the CaixaResearch Institute.
Speaking on behalf of the MMRES Class of 2025–2026, Míriam Jódar reflected on a year that challenged students to step outside their comfort zones and explore new scientific disciplines. She highlighted the opportunity to discover research across the BIST Community, strengthen their communication skills and build lasting connections with fellow students and researchers. She also thanked the laboratories that hosted the students, the MMRES coordination team, and their classmates and families for their support.
Credit: Frederic Camallonga, UPF
