First Summer School of the Research Training Group 2408
In August, the summer school of the Research Training Group (GRK) 2408 took place in Magdeburg for the first time. Over four days, doctoral students from various disciplines were able to deepen their knowledge, acquire new skills and exchange ideas.
The program started with various practical method courses. In laboratories on the UMMD campus, the participants had the opportunity to learn new methods in small groups guided by experienced scientists. This was an ideal opportunity for the young researchers to familiarize themselves with different techniques for characterizing cells and primary tissues. The PhD students were introduced to spectral flow cytometry, which allows the sensitive and parallel analysis of different molecules in different cells. Multi-epitope ligand mapping was used to demonstrate the detection of different molecules in tissue. The relatively new technology of organoid cultivation, which allows the scientific investigation of primary tissues from patients, was also well received. Participants were particularly excited that these techniques can now be considered in their own research.
Picture: Participants of the Summer School 2023 of the Research Training Group (GRK) 2408.
Source: GRK 2408
In addition, invited scientists presented current research results in exciting lectures. In the evening, these were discussed in greater depth with the guests in a relaxed atmosphere. Another highlight was the "Translational Day" - a day that focused on how findings from laboratory research can be applied in medical care. This year's Translational Day was hosted by the Department of Hematology and Oncology. After a lecture by Clinic Director Prof. Dimitrios Mougiakakos on new findings in CAR T-cell therapy for the treatment of cancer, participants were able to experience everyday clinical life on a tour of the wards and the diagnostics laboratory.
In addition to technical lectures and courses, general skills were also taught. A workshop on the topic of "Unconscious Bias" was able to raise awareness of unconscious biases that are present in everyone. In addition, the colleague members discussed selected aspects of Good Scientific Practice and research data management together with Dr. Barbara Witter from the Otto von Guericke Graduate Academy. For example, they critically analyzed how scientific articles can be written transparently and comprehensibly so that other scientists can repeat the experiments.
With many new impressions in their luggage and a newly strengthened group feeling, the doctoral students returned to their daily laboratory routine at the end of the week. Planning for next year's summer school has already begun.
Background
The Research Training Group 2408 "Maladaptive Processes at Physiological Interfaces in Chronic Diseases" is funded by the German Research Foundation since 01.10.2018 in the meanwhile second funding period for a total of 9 years. In addition to the thematically focused research, the qualification of young scientists is in the foreground. A structured training program prepares the PhD students for the job market of science.
Authors: Anna Krone, Sandra Dittrich