ABOUT US / OUR STUDENT AND ECR BOARD
ABOUT US
The Early Career Researcher (ECR) Board of the ESGCT plays a key role in representing and supporting the next generation of scientists in gene and cell therapy. Working alongside the ESGCT Board—composed of ten leading researchers in the field—the ECR members serve in an ex-officio capacity, contributing to discussions and strategic initiatives. The ECR Board is essential in helping strengthen the society’s student and postdoctoral community by promoting memberships, organizing satellite events, facilitating interactions with field experts and expanding training opportunities.
EXPERT CONNECT
“Expert Connect” is an interactive networking initiative designed to foster meaningful connections between early-career researchers (students, PhD candidates, and postdoctoral fellows) and Principal Investigators (PIs) during ESGCT congresses.
Based on a registration system, participants are matched in individual or small groups to facilitate open and informal discussions. These sessions provide a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, gain insights into different research paths, discuss career development, and expand professional networks in a supportive environment.
The goal is to break down traditional hierarchical barriers and encourage genuine scientific dialogue, mentorship, and potential future collaborations.
In addition, during the Spring School, dedicated group lunches are organized, allowing all participants and experts to gather in a more relaxed setting. These shared moments further strengthen interactions, encourage continued discussions, and help build a cohesive and engaged community.
3 MINUTE THESIS CONTEST (3MT)
Every October, the ESGCT ECR Board hosts a virtual 3 Minute Thesis Contest for PhD students. Students are asked to record themselves describing their PhD project in three minutes or less, adhering to standard 3MT rules (no props, one static background slide, spoken word, designed for a non-specialist audience). A distinguished panel of judges ranks the entries and the overall winner is announced at the Annual Congress. Winners are awarded a travel grant which can be used for subsequent ESGCT events.
EXPERT INTERVIEWS
The ESGCT fosters close interaction between leading experts in the field and early-career researchers (ECRs) and students.
During ESGCT events, the ESGCT ECR board members conduct interviews with the experts to share their personal journeys, give advice and inspire the next generation of scientists, and encourage ECRs to actively connect with experts throughout our meetings.
Check out the interviews conducted sofar, and stay tuned for the upcoming ones.
ECR NETWORKING ACTIVITIES
ESGCT ECR Board Members organize ECR-only social events ranging from trivia nights and treasure hunts to group dinners and casual drinks. These events create a fun, space for ECRs and students to connect. These moments spark new friendships, collaborations and conversations that continue long after the event.
QUICK TAKES: ECR EDITION
Quick Takes: ECR Edition is a short-form video series capturing the voices of Early Career Researchers at the ESGCT events. In each clip, participants briefly introduce themselves, share their impressions of the event, and highlight standout moments—from inspiring talks to key takeaways. These short interviews give an authentic snapshot of our vibrant ECR community.
Check out the Quick Takes conducted sofar, and stay tuned for the upcoming ones.
