29 Oct 2026
Research is data-heavy. Across disciplines, researchers need to manage, analyze, document and share data in ways that are transparent, reliable and responsible. Data Train Advanced addresses this need with a structured, interdisciplinary curriculum leading towards a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) designed for early-career researchers.
Research data management and data science combined
The English-language program is cross-disciplinary and welcomes participants from all research disciplines. Its curriculum is designed to meet the high demand for expertise in data science, research data management, and ethical, legal, and social aspects (ELSA) of data along the entire data lifecycle, as well as critical thinking skills, particularly regarding artificial intelligence applications. (Bild: Datenlebenszyklus einfügen)
A central feature of Data Train Advanced is the relevance of its program contents to everyday research practice. Participants develop essential data skills from project planning and data handling to analysis, publication and data reuse. In this way, the program supports more robust, efficient and responsible workflows in ongoing and future research projects.
![[Translate to English:] Ich habe dieses Programm über die Jahre wachsen sehen und erlebt, wie sehr Forschungseinrichtungen davon profitieren, wenn sie ihr Personal – insbesondere Wissenschaftler:innen in frühen Karrierephasen – systematisch im Umgang mit Daten weiterbilden. Heute sind mit nahezu jeder Forschungsfrage, unabhängig von der Disziplin, Herausforderung im Umgang mit Daten verbunden. Data Train Advanced vermittelt genau die Kompetenzen, die Early Career Researcher brauchen, um diese Herausforderungen zu meistern. Wenn Sie gerade erst in Ihre wissenschaftliche Laufbahn starten, ist das genau die richtige Art von relevanter, strukturierter Weiterbildung, die die Qualität Ihrer Forschung steigert und Ihre künftige Arbeit verbessert“, sagt Prof. Dr. Iris Pigeot, Programmverantwortliche von Data Train Advanced, Direktorin des Leibniz-Instituts für Präventionsforschung und Epidemiologie (BIPS), Professorin für Statistik an der Universität Bremen und Sprecherin von NFDI4Health.](/fileadmin/_processed_/2/7/csm_261028_DTA_Testimonials_Grafik_Website_Iris_Pigeot_650096a9bc.webp)
Modular structure and certificate options
Data Train Advanced is structured in four modules of 6 credit points each. Participants can complete individual modules as focused qualifications (microcredits) or combine modules into one of four certificate courses (microdegrees).
All certificate pathways start with Module 1: Introduction to Data Literacy and Research Data Management. Building on this foundation, participants can choose a focus on data handling (Data Stewardship skills), data analysis (Data Science skills) or a combination of both skillsets.
The four available certificate options are:
- Data Stewardship
- Data Science
- Research Data Management and Data Science
- Advanced Research Data Management and Data Science
The Certificate of Advanced Studies is an internationally recognized credential awarded under the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). In this way, Data Train Advanced acknowledges the participants’ commitment to professional development and certifies systematic acquisition of skills in the areas of research data management and data science. While improving the quality of their research workflow over the course of the program, participants also strengthen their profile for academic careers, research support roles and data-intensive professional contexts beyond academia.
Application periods
Registration for modules and certificate courses is open from December 1, 9 AM (CET) to December 31, 2026. Since places are limited, we recommend registering as early as possible. If the number of applicants exceeds the number of places, the date and time of receipt of the complete application documents determines admission. The next application window is open from April 1 to April 30, 2027.
About Data Train Advanced
Data Train Advanced is offered as part of Data Train and has been developed within the U Bremen Research Alliance lead project Research Data Management and Data Science, in cooperation with the Academy of Continuing Education (Akademie für Weiterbildung der Universität Bremen) and Faculty 3 - Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Bremen. Through this program, the U Bremen Research Alliance strengthens data competence across institutional and disciplinary boundaries. It is an example of how the Alliance creates joint qualification structures for excellent, responsible and future-oriented research.
