The profession has existed since the turn of the 20th century with changing job titles. Until 2022, the job title was medical-technical laboratory assistant (MTLA); from 2023, the job title will be medical technologist for laboratory analysis (MTL). With laboratory diagnostics, MTLs lay the foundation for correct medical diagnoses and therapies. The basic principles of examination methods have changed little since the turn of the last century. However, new procedures have brought about a revolutionary change in medical equipment technology. They have made examination procedures in the fields of clinical chemistry, haematology, histology and microbiology a basis for diagnostics and therapy in all areas of medicine. The modern techniques used by MTLs to examine patients' fluids and tissues enable doctors to provide precise medicine.

Education

MTL training is a full-time course. It lasts three years and ends with a state examination (written, practical and oral part). Since 2019, trainees at the MTL school at Heidelberg University Hospital have received a training allowance (as of 01.05.2024)

1st year of training: 1,245.24 euros
2nd year Year of training: 1,305.30 euros
3. Year of training: 1,402.03 euros

Theoretical training

Theoretical instruction is mainly provided by specialist lecturers from Heidelberg University Hospital, while practical instruction is mainly provided by MTL teachers in the MTL school's own laboratories.

The theoretical training comprises 4 areas of competence:

I. Planning, preparation, implementation, documentation, control and assessment of biomedical analysis processes using biological, chemical and physical methods and procedures including pre-analysis and post-analysis: 1,820 hours

II. planning, preparation, organization, implementation, documentation, assessment and further development of quality, risk, process and data management in biomedical performance processes, including ensuring trouble-free analysis: 200 hours

III. Intra- and interprofessional communication and action in biomedical analysis processes and interface areas, taking into account person- and situation-specific contexts: 160 hours

IV. Orientation, justification and reflection of own actions and participation in professional development on the basis of scientific findings and taking into account legal requirements, economic and ecological framework conditions and ethical values: 160 hours

A further 260 hours at the free disposal of the school.

Practical training

The practical training comprises 2,000 hours and takes place in laboratories at Heidelberg University Hospital and in laboratories of cooperating institutions.

Link to the MTA professional association

Start of training, requirements, application

Training always begins in October: we fill twenty training places per year through a selection process. Applicants who are successful in the selection process are invited to a personal interview.

We attach particular importance to good grades in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, German and English. A good knowledge of German (written and spoken) is essential. Those who have already completed laboratory internships have an advantage in the process.

How to apply

Application documents can be submitted at any time. Please enclose a copy of the following documents with your letter of application, which should show your professional motivation:

  • School leaving certificate - at least secondary school leaving certificate
  • Applicants who have obtained their school-leaving certificate abroad require recognition of their school-leaving certificate: Assessment of the school-leaving certificate by the Stuttgart Regional Council
  • Curriculum vitae in tabular form
  • Addressed and stamped envelope if you wish to return the application documents

If you are accepted for a training position, the following documents must also be submitted:

  • health suitability and proof of immunity against measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox and pertussis (form will be sent with the acceptance letter)
  • Police clearance certificate

Agreements on training

From the start of your training, you are an employee of Heidelberg University Hospital. Attendance is compulsory during theoretical and practical training. Regular and successful participation in the training must be certified by the school and is a basic requirement for admission to the state final examination.

Vacation: 30 days / year

Training allowance: You will receive a training allowance (see above).

iPad: will be provided.

Job ticket: As an employee of Heidelberg University Hospital, you can apply for a job ticket.

Accommodation: Rooms of varying sizes and facilities are available in staff residences in Heidelberg-Neuenheim (Neuenheimer Feld campus) and Heidelberg-Schlierbach (Orthopaedic University Hospital). In Neuenheim, rents are between € 175 and € 239/month, in Schlierbach between € 295 and € 302/month. (as of January 2024)

Perspectives

After training, MTL can expect a wide range of career opportunities in clinics, private laboratory practices and industry with a wide range of job offers.

Career and promotion opportunities:

  • Further training as a specialist MTL
  • Takeover of a laboratory management position
  • Application specialist in the industry (e.g. customer consulting/staff training)

All at a glance

Seats available

Duration
3 Years

Application period
At any time

Start
To be announced

Remuneration
1st year of training: 1,245.24 euros
2nd year of training: 1,305.30 euros
3rd year of training: 1,402.03 euros

Apply now by e-mail