An engaging scientific programme
The meeting opened with the first plenary lecture, Lost in hydroxylation: From DNA repair to RNA regulation and embryology, delivered by Arne Klungland, Professor at the Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo (UiO), and NCMBM Champion. His presentation was followed by the popular My Research in 3 Minutes session, inspired by the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) concept, in which PhD students and postdoctoral fellows showcased their research in short, engaging presentations.
The Science Communication session challenged several NCMBM researchers to present their work on sleep, breast cancer and rare immune diseases in lay terms. Three additional scientific sessions held throughout the retreat showcased the breadth of research being carried out across the Centre.
The second plenary lecture, Drug–Bug cocresconnections: Challenges and insights from linking gut microbiome profiles with prescription drug records, was delivered by Trine Rounge, Professor of Bioinformatics in Life Science (BiLS) at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, UiO. The presentation gave the participants an insight into some of the "CRCbiome – The microbiome as a colorectal cancer screening biomarker" project.
Supporting research and strengthening the Centre
Alongside the scientific programme, parallel sessions were organised for the research and administrative support teams. The first provided an update on the Employee Journey project, which aims to improve the staff experience throughout every stage of employment at NCMBM, from onboarding onwards. The project is led by Elizabeth Smethurst, NCMBM Head of Research Strategy, Communications and Internationalisation.
The second session focused on GDPR and considered its importance across the Centre. It also explored the changes in working practices that will accompany the move to the Life Science Building and the transition to an open-plan office. The session was facilitated by Marie Goua, Senior Advisor at NCMBM.
The retreat also provided an opportunity for NCMBM leadership, Group Leaders and the newly appointed NCMBM Champions (Arne Klungland, Trine Rounge and Vessela Kristensen - Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, UiO, and Head of Research at the Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital) to discuss how NCMBM can strengthen its engagement with, and visibility in, the local research environment.
Building the NCMBM community
The Trainee Committee organised a creative team-building activity with a medieval-inspired theme, during which members of each research group designed a coat of arms representing their group. The Best Coat of Arms award went to the Boccara group.
Although the Social Committee had carefully planned a series of outdoor activities, the rainy weather required a change of plans. Participants instead gathered indoors for board games, creating a relaxed and enjoyable end to the day.
The traditional poster session ran throughout both days of the retreat, giving participants plenty of time to discuss the latest research. Three poster prizes were awarded:
- Best Scientific Poster: Sara Palomino Echeverria (NORPOD Fellow, Mariike Kuijjer group)
- Best Lay Summary: Adnan Hashim (Janna Saarela group)
- People's Choice Award: Letizia Signorelli (Charlotte Boccara group)
The annual retreat continues to be an important opportunity for NCMBM researchers and staff to exchange ideas and strengthen collaborations. By combining excellent science with discussions on the evolving research environment, the retreat reinforces NCMBM's collaborative spirit. We thank all speakers, organisers and participants for making the event a success.