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The European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) is a dynamic funding agency that supports collaborative research and innovation networks across Europe. COST Actions foster connections among research initiatives, empowering scientists to exchange ideas and advance their work. This not only accelerates research but also boosts careers and drives innovation. One of COST Actions, “Bench to Bedside: Transitioning Pharmacological Regulation of NRF2 in Noncommunicable Diseases,” alias BenBedPhar, attracted dr. Alicja Sznarkowska and her team from ICCVS as it aligns perfectly with their work on NRF2 isoforms.

I attended the SFRR meeting (Society for Free Radicals Research) in Istanbul where I learnt about the BenBedPhar COST Action. I met its Chair and Leaders of particular Work Packages and finally became a member myself, followed by the team – dr. Zuzanna Urban-Wójciuk and Alicja Dziadosz-Brzezińska. – Alicja says.

How exactly did it happen?

In June 2024 I took part in the European SFRR meeting in Istanbul where I presented our data on detection of NRF2 which point to the fact that majority of commercial anti-NRF2 antibodies bind to another protein that co-migrates with NRF2 in SDS-PAGE. We showed how to differentiate true signal from the unspecific one – says dr. Sznarkowska.
Unspecific antibodies are the burden to the NRF2 community thus our poster attracted a lot of attention. This is how I met prof. Antonio Cuadrado Pastor from Autonomous University of Spain, Madrid, who is the Leader of COST BenBedPhar as well as prof. Albena Dinkova-Kostova from the University of Dundee – School of Medicine, who leads the package on NRF2 pharmacological regulation and drugs– she continues.

In Istanbul I also learnt about COST Training School which was, to my surprise, organized in Poland, in Wieliczka, by prof. Anna Grochot-Przęczek from Jagiellonian University of Cracow, who leads the BenBedPhar work package 1 on tools for NRF2 research. I contacted Anna who invited me to come with a poster to Wieliczka and in the end I was encouraged to give a talk on NRF2 detection and isoforms project. Besides wonderful lectures summarizing current knowledge on NRF2/KEAP1 pathway, we were also offered a brilliant talk by Prof. Alicja Józkowicz (Jagiellonian University, Cracow) on How to write the ERC grants. COST training schools gather young researchers – PhD students and post-docs – who are especially interested in the very bases of work with NRF2 so we had a lot of lively discussions!

After getting acquainted with COST members and presenting our work, I applied for the COST membership and was soon accepted. This allowed me to go to Lizbon, Portugal for the 8th BenBedPhar Scientific meeting and give a talk on methods with which we study NRF2 isoforms. It was a wonderful journey and a very rich and inspiring meeting from which I brought new ideas and I am very grateful for the opportunity to join.

Being a part of the COST Action has been a thrilling experience. I met people investigating one protein from various angles so we could exchange perspectives and knowledge. I am looking forward to future meetings (next in Galway, Ireland in June 2025) and I recommend to everyone to search for COST Action with the agenda of their interests, as it really gives a kick of motivation!

This year, scientists from the International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science joined the Night of Biologists to share their important work on cancer research and cell-based therapies.

For our youngest visitors, we created a fun animated film that explained how immune cells fight diseases in our bodies. Aspiring young scientists had the chance to try their hand at using a model of flow cytometer and discover how to find cells that can protect us from cancer. Our researchers also shared stories about how these special cells could help develop life-saving targeted therapies for future patients.

The Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology UG brought the event to life with attracting exhibits. Visitors explored microbiological cultures, models of antibodies, cells, and viruses, and even a map showing bacterial infections in the human body.

One of the night’s highlights was an escape room adventure, where participants became anti-terrorist heroes battling a microbiological threat. It was both stimulating and educational! Visitors also enjoyed fascinating lectures packed with facts on research from various fields of biology.

Events like this remind us how important it is to share knowledge, celebrate science, and show the world how research can make a difference in our lives.

Special gratitude to dr. Zuzanna Urban-Wójciuk and dr. Anna Biernacka from ICCVS for the stand preparation.

The participation in the event was a part of CANVAS project financed by the European Union.

From 25th November to 9th December, two members of our ICCVS team, Dr. Anna Biernacka and Alicja Dziadosz, participated in an intensive training program on γδ T cell culture at the Department of Biology, Università di Roma “Tor Vergata.”

Under the expert mentorship of Dr. Marina Potestà, Dr. Carla Montesano, and Dr. Alessandra Sacchi, our team gained hands-on experience in purifying, expanding, characterizing, and activating these rare yet powerful immune cells. This invaluable expertise will play a crucial role in advancing our research on cellular anti-NSCLC therapies at ICCVS.

A highlight of the trip was attending the Extracellular Vesicles and Nanoparticles Conference (CSEVP-2024) on 4th December. The event featured cutting-edge talks by leading experts and promising young scientists, making it a truly inspiring experience.

Outside the lab, our team also had the pleasure of experiencing the rich Roman cuisine and enjoying time with colleagues in a traditional Roman restaurant.

We give our gratitude to the team at Università di Roma “Tor Vergata” for their expertise and warm hospitality!

These visit was part of the CANVAS project aiming to enhance research potential and develop innovative tools that contribute to the advancement of cell-based therapies for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

During the Gliwice Scientific Meetings, held on 21-22 November 2024 at the Education and Congress Centre of the Silesian University of Technology, Prof. Natalia Marek-Trzonkowska, along with Justyna Kocik-Król PhD and Ewelina Majewska PhD, actively promoted the CANVAS project: “Enhancing Cancer Vaccine Science for New Therapy Pathways.” The event provided an excellent opportunity to present the project’s goals and objectives, emphasizing its significance in development of immuno-oncology therapies. The scientific posters were presented by the team of ICCVS, Ines Papak PhD student, Artur Piróg PhD and Wojciech Siwek PhD.

We extend our gratitude to the Organizers for inviting us to participate in this event and for the inspiring discussions with representatives of the scientific and clinical medicine communities!

As a reminder, the CANVAS project aims to enhance research potential and develop innovative tools that contribute to the advancement of cell-based therapies for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The project is led by Prof. Natalia Marek-Trzonkowska at the International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science (ICCVS) in collaboration with partners: Real Research S.A., the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) in France, and the University of Rome Tor Vergata (UNITOV) in Italy.

The project’s activities include both scientific research and study visits or exchange programs among partners to improve expertise in the field of cancer immunology. The CANVAS project is funded by the European Union and fosters an interdisciplinary environment that encourages the development of innovative research ideas, contributing to the dynamic advancement of science and public awareness in the field of cancer immunotherapy.

From the 30^th of September until 5^th of October I took part in Advanced Lecture Course organized by Society for Free Radicals Research-Europe (SFRR-E) and Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS) on Greek Island of Spetses. The topic of this meeting was: “Redox biochemistry: Cellular responses and disease relevance”. At first, I felt a bit intimidated by the packed schedule as I’m new to this field, but soon I’d realized all of the talks were very interesting and speakers easily approachable. We learnt about the involvement of reactive oxygen species in aging, Alzheimer’s disease, and physical exercise. A huge part of the meeting was dedicated to presentations given by early-career researchers (PhD students and post-docs). All of us were asked to prepare not only a poster but also a 4-minute scientific presentation and 2-minute presentation to non-scientific audience. Most of the participants took it very seriously and the presentations led to some very interesting discussions.

We did not have much free time during the meeting but because the hotel where the meeting was held was located right at the seaside, we could still enjoy beautiful scenery. I had a great time in Spetses and I’m very grateful I had a chance to participate in this conference.

This year, the Research Support Team from the International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science had the unique opportunity to participate in two job shadowing visits, hosted by the University of Rome Tor Vergata (UNITOV) and the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA).

The visit to our Italian partner institution took place in April. During five packed days, our team had the chance to delve into a wide range of topics, including best practices in research funding acquisition and proposal writing, practical aspects of laboratory management, support for international students and staff, and information and marketing processes. Particularly engaging discussions revolved around critical areas such as laboratory waste management, ordering reagents, managing reagents and consumables, and equipment booking systems. After full working days, we also had the chance to explore the historic spots of the beautiful and ever-vibrant city of Rome.

In October, we were delighted to join our French colleagues at CEA in Grenoble. The city welcomed us with stunning weather and breathtaking views of the Alpine mountains. During this inspiring three-day visit, we learned a great deal about CEA’s innovative work, visited impressive showrooms and laboratories, and connected with highly engaged professionals eager to share their knowledge. Key topics discussed included digital management of reagents, electronic lab books, intellectual property management, working hours declaration tools, and advocacy activities at the EU level.

These visits were part of the CANVAS project activity plan, providing a valuable opportunity for the entire project consortium (ICCVS, UNITOV, CEA and Real Research) to meet and plan the next steps for the near future.

We returned to our daily responsibilities with fresh ideas and solutions to address ongoing challenges.

Special thanks to Carla Montesano, Marina Potesta, and Elisabetta Russo from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, as well as to Haiyet Chebli and Christophe Battail from the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission.

We are grateful to have been part of this inspiring journey!

On 18^th October 2024, the International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science at the University of Gdańsk hosted the second episode of Science, Biotech and Beyond, season 2. This engaging session, titled Science Popularization: Why and How to Do It, provided two experienced speakers from the Experyment Science Center in Gdynia—Klaudia Tajthi and Magdalena Jaworska.

Klaudia Tajthi, a physicist and renowned science popularizer, shared her experience in organizing impactful science events. Magdalena Jaworska, a PR specialist, offered insights into promoting science to the broader public and her involvement with the European Network of Youth Cancer Survivors, where she advocates for the needs of cancer survivors.

Big thanks to our speakers, it was a great pleasure to learn from you!

The event, part of the CANVAS project, aimed to enhance science dissemination efforts, making them more effective and accessible. With a focus on science communication, this session provided valuable training for researchers and professionals interested in improving public engagement.

The ICCVS extends an open invitation to all willing to join future episodes of Science, Biotech and Beyond.

Why? How? When? These were just a few of the big questions tackled by scientists from the International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science during this year’s exciting Researchers’ Night at the University of Gdańsk.

Visitors were treated with science at two stands: Neoantigen Discovery and Cellular Therapies – how the cells become medicine? Both stands attracted crowds with their cutting-edge research and hands-on activities.

Young scientists-in-the-making had the exciting opportunity ‘to step into the lab, sorting immune cells to create personalized T-cell therapies designed to fight cancer’. Meanwhile, parents engaged in stimulating discussions with ICCVS researchers about the future of personalized cancer therapies, sparking curiosity and hope for what’s to come.

Participants of all ages also dove into an interactive game, taking on the roles of immune system cells to learn how our body defends itself. From guardians to frauds to the innocents, the activity was a fun and educational trip into how our blood cells work together to protect us.

For those requiring more advanced knowledge, scientific posters and one-on-one chats with experts provided further insights into the properties of immune system power.

The presence of our scientists was possible as part of activities planned in the project CANVAS, financed by the European Union.

Check out the photo gallery to feel this inspiring atmosphere!

The University of Gdańsk continues to strengthen its position as a hub of innovative research for the benefit of society and the economy. During the 5th meeting of the Economic Convention at the Daniel Fahrenheit Association of Universities, held on 19 September at the Faculty of Biology, Tri-City entrepreneurs had the opportunity to learn about research conducted at the university.

Among the highlights was a presentation by Prof. Natalia Marek-Trzonkowska, PhD, Director of the International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science (ICCVS). She presented the Center’s pioneering work on personalized cell therapy for lung cancer. Over the past four years, the ICCVS has filed nine patent applications and collaborated with world-renowned institutions. “We are currently conducting research on animals using the PDX model, where we transplant tumors from patients into animals, allowing us to test the efficacy of therapeutic cells,” Prof. Marek-Trzonkowska explained.

The event highlighted a diverse range of innovative initiatives from quantum cryptography to Arctic research. UG Rector and Chairman of the Fahrenheit Universities, Prof. Piotr Stepnowski, PhD, emphasized the university’s growing role in connecting science with business. “Our university builds its reputation not only through education but also by working closely with the business sector. This synergy creates new paths for scientific research and helps shape the modern knowledge economy,” he said.

The convention reinforced the University of Gdańsk’s commitment to fostering collaborations that drive scientific developments with real-world applications.

The University of Gdańsk and the International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science recently welcomed the team from the Odesa I.I. Mechnikov National University, Ukraine. Prof. Oksana Zinchenko, prof. Mariia Rusakova, prof. Nataliia Vasylieva and prof. Nataliia Tesliuk are experts from the Faculty of Biology, Department of Microbiology, Virology, and Biotechnology, engaged in productive discussions during the visit.

This collaborative meeting (held on 18th September) provided an excellent opportunity to expand the network between the two institutions, explore project ideas, and foster potential future collaborations in the field of biotechnology.