RCSI Medical University of Bahrain Students Strengthen Research and Clinical Skills

Students at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) - Medical University of Bahrain continue to strengthen their research, clinical and practical skills through international learning opportunities provided by Keele University, our longstanding partner in the United Kingdom.

This summer, our medical students participated in a six-week research training programme at Keele University throughout July, gaining valuable exposure to internationally recognised biomedical research environments. Through the programme, our students developed core research competencies while contributing to projects across a diverse range of disciplines, including neuroscience and neurodegenerative disease, cancer biology and therapeutics, cardiovascular and platelet research, tissue engineering and bioengineering, stem cell and disease modelling, women’s health, infectious diseases, and rare neuromuscular and skeletal disorders.

The international programme also provided hands-on practical learning through an accelerated Human Anatomy dissection course at Keele University’s Anatomy and Surgical Training Centre. The specialist course enabled our students to consolidate and deepen their anatomical knowledge through practical dissection and direct anatomical exploration, complementing their medical education with immersive, experiential learning.

Dr Maikki Cullen, Lecturer in Science – Medical Commencement Programme & Academic Director of Undergraduate Research, commented: “International academic partnerships offer practical learning opportunities for our students in diverse academic and healthcare environments. Beyond the academic benefits, these programmes encourage students to adapt to new learning environments, engage with academics and peers outside their home institution, and gain insight into different approaches to healthcare education. We value such experiences, which contribute to the development of confident, adaptable and internationally minded healthcare professionals, and we are grateful to Keele University for providing such valuable opportunities.”

Since the first cohort of our students travelled to Keele University for research training in 2019, the partnership has continued to expand, creating international learning opportunities. Dr Khadija Matrook, Lecturer in Nursing and Nursing Year 4 Director, is supporting undergraduate nursing students participating in opportunities offered through this partnership. Programmes have included biomedical research training, student exchanges, clinical observerships and specialist educational programmes. In 2025, our medical students became the first cohort to participate in Keele University’s accelerated Human Anatomy dissection programme alongside biomedical research training.

Further strengthening our international outlook, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Queen’s University Belfast, United Kingdom, to expand opportunities for international exchange and immersive learning.

Through strategic partnerships with leading international universities, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain is committed to delivering a globally connected medical and health sciences education and preparing future healthcare professionals with the knowledge, adaptability and international perspective required to contribute to the advancement of healthcare and patient care in the Kingdom of Bahrain and beyond.