CCE Summer School 2025: Empowering the Next Generation of Investigators in Translational Cancer Research

2025 Program: Bridging Fundamentals, Clinical Innovation, and Technology 
This year, 66 participants representing 25 nationalities and diverse scientific backgrounds joined the Summer School. The program explored the intersections between fundamental research, clinical innovation, and emerging technologies — particularly artificial intelligence as a tool to improve diagnostics, prevention, and treatment across the cancer continuum.

Topics covered the full spectrum of translational cancer research, including precision medicine, clinical trials, early detection, liquid biopsy, genomics, tailored care, patient-centered research, survivorship and quality of life, proteomics, tumor microenvironment and immunology, microbiota, and computational oncology.

World-Class Faculty and Workshops 
As in previous editions, participants engaged with an outstanding faculty of internationally recognized experts shaping the future of translational cancer research. Alongside lectures and discussions, the program featured four interactive workshops designed to equip participants with practical skills. These sessions explored scientific writing using AI, patient involvement in cancer care, and effective science communication. The program once again included the workshop on cBioPortal for Cancer Genomics, which continues to be a highlight and one of the participants’ favorite year after year.

Participants in the Spotlight
Celebrating participant excellence is a cornerstone of the Summer School. This year featured eight oral presentations and 66 posters, highlighting the remarkable talent of our participants.

We warmly congratulate Francesca Cogo (VHIO) for receiving the Best Participant Talk Award. Further recognition goes to the Best Poster Prize winners: Sena Alptekin (University Hospital Heidelberg, DKFZ) , sponsored by Molecular Oncology, Mark Opdam (NKI) sponsored by Menarini Stemline, and Jan Clusmann (Technical University Dresden) supported by Cancer Core Europe.

Strengthening Academia–Industry Dialogue 
For the first time, the Summer School welcomed representatives from industry, enriching the program with fresh perspectives and strengthening the dialogue between academia and the private sector. Several industry guests actively engaged with participants through lively discussions, sharing valuable insights on how professional experience can complement academic careers. They emphasized the diverse career paths available to early-stage researchers and underscored how closer collaboration between sectors can accelerate innovation in cancer research.


Link to original press release