The first CBIC Leadership Retreat for early career researchers

This retreat was held at Newcastle University from 13 to 15 September 2023. It was aimed at early career scientists based in academia and industry covering the breadth of chemical biology who came together to share their research, network and develop skills to support them in the next stage of their careers.

Sessions included flash presentations, ideas pitches, leadership workshops, fireside chats and plenary talks from Hiroaki Suga (The University of Tokyo, and Editor-in-Chief, RSC Chemical Biology) and Lydia Meyer-Turkson (Philips).

Feedback received from participants was very positive, particularly highlighting the networking and mentorship to foster leadership and collaboration. Delegates also praised the opportunity to pitch ideas and get feedback and advice on new projects during the “chalk and talk” session.

Picture: CBIC Leadership Retreat participants standing outside the university building

One participant commented:

Wonderful experience. It was great to step away from the day-to-day and focus my attention on new and exciting research. I left feeling re-energised and motivated to push my work forward

Special thanks to the speakers, mentors, and retreat organisers Stephen Wallace (University of Edinburgh) and Akane Kawamura (Newcastle University). The retreat would also not have been possible without support from: