In February 2025, the leading contract research organization OCT, renowned for its reliability in the field of clinical research, provided students of the Faculty of Fundamental Medicine of the Medical Science and Education Institute at Moscow State University (FFM MSEI MSU) with a unique opportunity—an internship at the company. The goal of this initiative is to help students in their professional self-determination, develop essential competencies, and acquire the necessary skills for solving practical tasks and implementing projects in the field of clinical research.

 

"OCT is actively developing educational programs that align with both Russian and international industry standards. An internship under the mentorship of the company’s top specialists will undoubtedly be a significant step in preparing future industry professionals. Additionally, it will help build a highly qualified talent pool essential for leading organizations in the sector," noted Dmitry Sharov, President of OCT.

The two-week program, designed by leading industry experts, immerses students in the world of clinical research and familiarizes them with all key departments of the company. During the internship, students studied the processes of data collection and analysis, prepared essential documentation for research approval by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, explored introductory statistical aspects of clinical research and statistical programming, and visited a research center where OCT is conducting an oncology study for a major pharmaceutical company. Furthermore, the training program included an introduction to Good Clinical Practice (GCP).

Upon successful completion of final assessments, students received certificates confirming the completion of the GCP module, as well as internship certificates. These internationally recognized documents will be a valuable addition to each student’s professional portfolio and a crucial step in their career development. OCT covered all travel and accommodation expenses for the students in Saint Petersburg, where the company’s headquarters are located.

 

"The demand for internships among students is constant, and they actively take advantage of the opportunities provided by the university. However, our collaboration with OCT was the first of its kind. It is extremely important to us that our students gain practical experience directly from those who shape the industry today—those who are at the forefront of modern technologies and scientific development, rather than simply retelling theoretical concepts from textbooks," commented Professor Elena Kalenikova, Deputy Dean of FFM MSEI MSU for Academic Affairs.

Dmitry Sharov emphasized the promising nature of further cooperation with MSU and outlined plans to expand educational programs. Negotiations are currently underway with interested pharmaceutical companies and Chinese educational institutions, which are ready to host MSU students for upcoming summer internship programs.

A full video of how the internship went and student testimonials can be seen at this link.