Summerschool Vagabond Utrecht-Texel 2024

Summerschool Utrecht-Texel 2024

 

The 2024 Summer School began with a joint meeting at the Prinses Máxima Center in Utrecht, bringing together VAGABOND and Butterfly PhD students for two and a half days of scientific sessions and discussions. The program opened with talks on recent advances in pediatric cancer research, sparking thoughtful questions. Selected students from both programs presented their own research, showcasing a range of projects that reflected the diversity of studies in the pediatric cancer field. In the evening, everyone enjoyed a boat tour through the Utrecht canals with pizza, creating a relaxed atmosphere for the PHD students to reconnect and get to know each other better.

 

The following day featured an Industrial Market Fair, where students had the opportunity to connect with professionals from companies like Genmab, Ambagon Therapeutics, and Sanofi. Through “speed dating” sessions, students learned more about each company’s work and potential career paths. The day also included a poster session, where students presented their research to attendees and engaged in insightful discussions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Wednesday lunchtime, the VAGABOND students bid farewell to the Butterfly students and traveled to Texel. Upon arrival, they took part in a closing session with Ingrid Valks at the beach, reflecting on the personal development journey they had undergone during their PhD.

 

 

On Thursday, the VAGABOND students gave a 15-minute presentation followed by questions and feedback on how to refine both their research and presentation skills.
Led by experienced researchers, the session offered practical advice for improving communication and scientific clarity.

 

That evening, the much-anticipated “Vagaball” took place, with everyone embracing the purple dress code. The event created a memorable night of fun and connection among students and supervisors.

 

The final day saw the remaining student presentations, after which supervisors shared their perspectives on future directions in pediatric cancer research. They discussed upcoming research goals and broader trends in the field, giving PhD students a clearer sense of the evolving landscape.

 

To conclude the summer school, the group embarked on a cycling trip to the beach, enjoying the views and fresh sea air despite the windy weather. It was a refreshing end to an intensive and productive week.