SETH Workshop report

My name is Oriana Colletti, and I am a first year PhD student in the Birmingham Platelet Group at the University of Birmingham.

At the end of September 2024, I participated in the ‘Advance course in Platelet Research’ in Murcia (Spain, 27-28^th September 2024). It was my first time attending a conference, especially one of this type, which was focused more on teaching new concepts and techniques. In my opinion, the course was well structured. It was divided into sessions and each session dealt with a specific topic in which two or three speakers were involved. At the end of each session, it was possible to ask questions or seek advice from the subject matter experts.

The topics covered were very varied: megakaryocytes, platelet function, platelet disorder and diagnosis, but also basic knowledge about platelets. European speakers were present, for the most part, but also some further international ones, including researchers from the USA and Australia. Among the speakers were also members from the Platelet Society!

There was no shortage of networking moments such as coffee breaks or lunch/dinner times, where you could talk more closely and confidently with experts in the field. There was a poster area where all participants could participate. I really liked the fact that the best three early career researcher (ECR) posters were selected and given the opportunity to present their work in front of so many experts in the field. I found this idea very important, especially for young researchers.

Overall, I think it was a well-structured course and very focused on young researchers. I learnt a lot, made new acquaintances and came home with a lot more passion in what I do every day.

I highly recommend everyone, especially ECRs to participate on the course next time.

I would like to thank all the organisers for a wonderful educational and human experience, but especially Dr Rivera who was the mastermind of this fantastic course.

Course webpage