How to Design One Health Related PhD Training - Learning From the University of Helsinki
On June 10th, 2024, One Health Estonia hosted a compelling webinar titled "How to Design One Health Related PhD Training - Learning From the University of Helsinki." The event, featured an insightful presentation by Professor Anna Valros from the University of Helsinki.
About the Speaker:
Professor Anna Valros, with an MSc in Zoology and a PhD in Animal Behaviour and Welfare, has been a distinguished professor at the University of Helsinki since 2008. She is currently the director of the Doctoral Programme of Clinical Veterinary Medicine (CVM) and a member of the University of Helsinki Doctoral School (UHDS) board. With a wealth of experience, including the authorship of 134 peer-reviewed articles and the supervision of 13 completed PhD theses, Professor Valros brought significant expertise to the webinar.
Webinar Highlights:
Introduction to Doctoral Training at the University of Helsinki:
Professor Valros introduced the restructured University of Helsinki Doctoral School (UHDS). She emphasized the holistic and integrated approach the university employs in its doctoral training programs.
Structure of Doctoral Training:
The webinar detailed the organizational framework of UHDS. The school is managed by a board led by the Vice Rector for Research and includes deans, program directors, and doctoral researchers. The UHDS allocates funding, organizes courses, and supports doctoral researchers through various programs.
Role of the Faculty and Support System:
A significant part of the discussion focused on the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine’s role in supporting doctoral candidates. This includes a comprehensive supervision system where each doctoral researcher is supported by a personal thesis committee. The multi-level support structure, facilitated by the Thessa system, ensures effective supervision, planning, and monitoring of doctoral studies.
Doctoral Programme in Clinical Veterinary Medicine (CVM):
The CVM program's goals and focus areas, including animal welfare, translational veterinary medicine, and clinical veterinary medicine, were highlighted. The program’s board, comprising representatives from various departments, oversees activities, approves PhD applications, and evaluates program effectiveness.
The webinar provided a detailed overview of the doctoral education structure at the University of Helsinki, offering valuable insights for designing One Health related PhD training programs.