Strengthening biomedical education through research, innovation and international collaboration.
Why New Approach Methodologies?
New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) are transforming biomedical research by combining advanced human cell models, organoids, organ-on-chip systems, computational approaches and AI-supported analysis to better understand human biology and disease.
As NAMs become increasingly integrated into biomedical research and regulatory science, there is a growing need for education that combines theoretical understanding with practical laboratory experience. The project addresses this need by creating a structured educational programme jointly developed by Norwegian and Ukrainian partners.
What does the project include?
International research mobility
Over the project period, 15 Master's students from partner universities in Ukraine will complete fully funded five-month research stays at the Hybrid Technology Hub.
Students will:
• conduct laboratory research forming the experimental basis of their Master's thesis;
• receive individual supervision by HTH researchers;
• gain hands-on experience with advanced NAM technologies;
• participate in seminars and courses at the University of Oslo;
• build international scientific networks.
Where appropriate, research carried out during the mobility may contribute to scientific publications and conference presentations
A new Master's course in New Approach Methodologies
The project will develop a new 4 ECTS Master's course in New Approach Methodologies, offered jointly to Norwegian and Ukrainian students.
The course will cover:
• organoids and microphysiological systems;
• advanced in vitro disease models;
• AI-supported experimental design;
• validation strategies;
• regulatory and ethical aspects of NAMs.
Teaching will combine lectures, case-based learning and digital resources to ensure long-term accessibility beyond the project period.
Partner institutions
Norway
• University of Oslo Hybrid Technology Hub, Faculty of Medicine
Ukraine
• Odesa I. I. Mechnikov National University
• National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy
• Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv
Opportunities for students
The project offers Master's students from the partner universities:
• fully funded 5-month research stay at the University of Oslo;
• research project integrated into ongoing HTH research;
• access to UiO courses and seminars;
• scholarship and mobility support;
• visit to AstraZeneca to learn how NAMs are applied in modern drug development;
• participation in international scientific meetings;
• opportunity to contribute to scientific publications.
Applications open annually. This year Deadline: 15.09.2026
Funding
NAM-Transform is funded by the Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (HK-dir) through the Nansen EDU – Norwegian–Ukrainian Cooperation in Higher Education programme.
