The Master in Precision Oncology, Innovation and Patient Centrality (OPIC) addresses the ongoing transformations in medical oncology. The growing availability of cutting-edge technology, the wealth of genetic and molecular data, and the evolution of personalized medicine require highly-specialized professionals, capable of integrating the clinical, scientific and human care dimension, and working in referential cancer-treatment centres, academia, and clinical, biotechnological and pharmacological research contexts.
The Master course provides theoretical and practical knowledge for an integrated management of cancer patients, by promoting a treatment model that enhances the biological, clinical, psychological and social uniqueness of each individual. Particular focus is paid to the use of genetic sequencing technologies, translational medicine, data management, and the interaction between professionals in multidisciplinary teams.
The Master in Precision Oncology, Innovation and Patient Centrality (OPIC) provides an interdisciplinary and modular approach, combining theory and practice. The course is provided in blended mode, and it includes:
- In-person and remote lectures on molecular oncology, immuno-oncology, genomics, pharmacogenomics, care ethics and doctor-patient communication
- Hands-on and/or virtual laboratories to analyse genomic data, interpret molecular profiles and simulate complex clinical cases
- Internships and stages to apply the competences acquired on field
- Project work with the development of an individual or group project in a clinical, management or research setting, supervised by academic tutors and field professionals
All knowledge acquired is verified through written exams and target practice. The course ends with the drafting and discussion of a dissertation, on a topic agreed with the faculty.
The Master in Precision Oncology, Innovation and Patient Centrality (OPIC) trains medical professionals, expert in the diagnosis, research and care of cancer patient, and especially oncologists who can work and/or cooperate with reference cancer centres.
The course is addressed to:
- Doctors specializing and/or specialized in oncology
- Doctors involved in multidisciplinary cancer care teams, and working in hospital, university and territorial settings, to apply a personalized oncology model, based on patient centrality in the medical practice
Career opportunities include:
- Cancer centres (hubs and spokes) as oncologists or multidisciplinary specialists.
- Biomedical and translational research centres, as planners and mangers of clinical and pre-clinical studies.
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnological companies, in medical/scientific, regulatory or treatment development roles.
- Healthcare management institutions, as experts of innovative organizational models, focused on personalized care.
Attendees will expand their knowledge of precision medicine, integrated management of cancer patients, critical use of innovative technologies, and effective communication with patients and the medical staff.
The Master in Precision Oncology, Innovation and Patient Centrality (OPIC) provides in-depth knowledge on the following modules:
Module 1 – INTRODUCTION TO PRECISION ONCOLOGY
Explores the fundamentals of precision oncology, introducing its theoretical bases, the clinical context and the importance of a customized approach to treat cancer.
Module 2 – INNOVATION IN DIAGNOSTIC INSTRUMENTS, ADVANCED LAB TECHNOLOGIES, AND NEW CANCER DRUGS
Focus on technological innovation, with insights on modern diagnostic instruments, advanced lab technologies, and the development of targeted cancer-treatment drugs.
Module 3 – GENETICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY OF CANCER
In-depth analysis of the genetic and molecular bases of cancer, with focus on its mutations, signalling pathways and relevant biomarkers for customized treatment.
Module 4 – MULTIDISCIPLINARY TREATMENT AND ONCOLOGY BOARDS | WORKSHOPS AND CASE STUDIES
A practical and collaborative approach to cancer treatment, with workshops, clinical case analysis and multidisciplinary work to simulate real-life situations.
Module 5 – CLINICAL TRIALS AND RESEARCH METHODOLOGY | ETHICS AND CHALLENGES OF A PERSONALIZED ONCOLOGY PRACTICE
It covers the principles of clinical trials and experimentation, with focus on ethical considerations and challenges of personalized oncology.
Module 6 – THE PATIENT-CENTRIC MODEL IN ONCOLOGY
Analyses the importance of a patient-centric approach, considering the psychological, social and communicational implications of a personalized treatment plan.
The general ranking of merit for the academic year 2025/26 will be published on the Italian page of this Master according to the timing provided in the Call.