The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) renews its support for the MD-PhD in Molecular Medicine Scholarship Program with the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) at the UP – College of Medicine on October 8, 2014.

The MD-PhD in Molecular Medicine Scholarship Program is the first and only dual MD-PhD course offered in the Philippines that trains aspiring physician-scientists. It is a joint initiative of the DOST, through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), and UPM for human resource development in biomedical research.

This year, nine scholars qualified for program. All scholars graduated with honors in their respective bachelor’s degrees. Although the program requires a minimum of 90% rating at the National Medical Aptitude Test (NMAT), all scholars received 96% and above NMAT ratings, two of whom achieved a score of 100%.

In his message, Dr. Jaime C. Montoya, Executive Director of PCHRD-DOST, stressed that the program is the country’s initiative to ensure that  future a pool of scientists who are experts in both the clinical and research aspects of medical science. He said, “The program gives the MD-PhD scholars the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge. Who else will best advance our medical knowledge but the ones who know both sides: the science and the medicine?”