QUT biomedical science students gain hands-on experience in Germany

Dr Karsten Schrobback shares the experiences of QUT students on a winter study experience at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences in Germany.

In early January, ten QUT Biomedical Science students travelled to Germany for a bespoke short-term mobility international laboratory program.

I led and codesigned the program which was offered as a part of the Hessen International Winter University (Hessen:IWU) program at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences (h_da).

During their stay, the students completed an intensive Molecular Biotechnology short course. They gained hands-on experience in advanced laboratory techniques, including bacterial cloning and bioreactor culture systems.

Beyond the laboratory, the Winter University offered German language classes and organised excursions to Munich, Neuschwanstein Castle, Heidelberg, and several other beautiful destinations.

These cultural activities enriched the students’ experience, giving them a deeper appreciation of Germany’s history, and traditions.

A particular highlight was the opportunity to connect with h_da students and fellow Hessen:IWU participants from Brazil, South Korea, the United States and other countries.

These interactions broadened their global perspectives and added to the excitement of studying in an international academic environment.

It was inspiring to see our students grow academically, culturally, and personally while representing QUT abroad.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Hessen:IWU organisers and to Biotech Professors Vera Göhre and Kai Lögering, along with their undergraduate students, for their warm hospitality and for creating such a professionally enriching program. Their dedication made this an unforgettable experience for our students.

We would also like to thank QUT International Office and the School of Biomedical Sciences, who provided bursaries to students to support their travel. This tour is the first of its kind for the school of Biomedical Sciences, with students from across all our courses participating in the program.

On the back of the success of this tour, the School of Biomedical Sciences is exploring opportunities for QUT’s continued participation in the Winter University, along with additional student exchanges and collaborative initiatives with Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences and the wider Hessen group.

If you would like to see more of our students in Germany, check out this feature in h-da’s impact Magazin 

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