International Master In Neurodegenerative Diseases - iMIND

I followed the iMIND course primarily because of my interest in neurodegenerative diseases and its international dimension. I remember above all the teachers who were very committed to their respective courses, as well as the quality of the teaching. The iMIND program really gave me a great theoretical knowledge of the different brain diseases since in each subject, several diseases are tackled with always a different practical approach showing the richness of the possible studies. Moreover, some courses are very enriching to continue with a thesis, such as the course: "HOT TOPICS" where you create a research project with the help of a tutor, which is then evaluated by professors and researchers, always in a very benevolent way. I would add that the teaching does not focus solely on theoretical aspects of neurodegenerative diseases. Indeed, the practical aspect of the various neuroscience techniques is widely emphasised, with a "NOVEL TECHNOLOGIES" course that explains in detail each branch of neuroscience techniques, starting with imaging and ending with electrophysiology.
To finish, I would like to mention the human aspect of this master, a very important point. Because of the small number of students, the educational team is very available for each of us, they answer each of our questions and try to find the best possible arrangement, even in the most difficult conditions, such as during the lockdown period that took place during my year of the master. Finally, the team spirit is very present in this master: group work is proposed, exchanges of courses are organised between the students, making the atmosphere very pleasant.

To me, the iMIND program was a rich experience. I was able to obtain a great amount of knowledge on topics that were rather new to me, taught by specialized researchers. The Pasteur course was a great opportunity to get high-level theoretical and practical courses in small groups. The Hot Topics seminars allowed me to learn more on fields unknown to me, and coming up with a research project layout was a nice initiation before starting my Ph.D., as well as another opportunity to gain maturity and show creativity and initiative. The courses being taught in English is a pro, considering the English-speaking context of Research. I advise taking the iMIND program, a great opportunity to finish one's Master's degree with ambitious courses that differ from what is offered in more traditional programs.

The iMIND course has been truly amazing! I have deepened my knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases while learning about the theoretical aspect of new cutting-edge techniques. The small size of the class allows for more interaction with the teacher-researchers and more active learning. The supervision is great and the course has totally prepared me for my M2 internship and for my PhD! It was the year I learned the most at university and the year that served me the most! I recommend it 100%!

“Passionate about neuroscience and health, it quickly became clear to me that I wanted to follow this programme. Today, I find it extremely instructive. First of all, 'Brain to Market' was an enriching experience because of the challenge of combining neuroscience and entrepreneurship for novices. I particularly appreciated the diversity of profiles (business scientists, engineers, designers and researchers) who worked together to come up with innovative concepts.
'Novel Technologies' was also very interesting, as it presented cutting-edge technologies used in the main areas of neuroscience, with the participation of experts with whom it was easy to exchange ideas. What's more, the practical workshops in the ICM provided a better understanding of these technologies and their current use. Similarly, 'Glial Pathologies' provided an opportunity to review the basics of the main neurodegenerative pathologies through animated lectures. Each disease is approached from different angles: functional, translational and clinical ; making it a comprehensive and essential part of the course.
Finally, 'Hot Topics' is the most demanding teaching unit on this programme, but it's also the one I enjoyed the most. The aim is, working alongside a tutor, to develop a project aimed at answering an as yet unknown biological question. This requires a real commitment on the part of the student, but it's also what makes this subject so rewarding when it's presented to a committee of experts.
To sum up, I would say that the iMIND programme is comprehensive, instructive and encourages collaboration. What's more, the fact that it takes place at the ICM gives you a real insight into what research is all about.”