From 9 to 11 December 2025, the Ignaz Semmelweis Institute held its first annual Retreat and Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) Meeting in Vienna. The three-day event brought together members of the five partner universities, creating a valuable platform for scientific exchange, strategic discussion and team building. For many participants, the retreat also marked the first opportunity to meet in person, further strengthening connections across institutions.
The program covered a broad range of topics central to the further development of the Institute. These included, among others, brainstorming sessions for future grant ideas, discussions on the strategic direction of the Semmelweis Institute and an in-depth SAB meeting with the rectors and vice-rectors of the partner universities. Each Semmelweis Professor also provided an overview of their research group and ongoing projects, allowing participants and SAB members to gain a comprehensive picture of the Institute’s scientific landscape. Charlotte Zajc and Marcus Polzin further presented the GMP facility of the Medical University of Vienna, offering insights into infrastructure and translational capabilities. A dedicated SAB feedback session provided the Professors with direct input and constructive recommendations from the Advisory Board.
Throughout the sessions and the retreat as a whole, participants engaged in direct exchange with SAB members, Semmelweis Professors, and other members of the Semmelweis team, fostering open dialogue and collaboration. Beyond the formal program, the retreat also emphasized community building. Informal exchanges during shared lunches and dinners, as well as team-building activities such as bowling, contributed to a collegial atmosphere and further strengthened collaboration across institutions.
The retreat marked an important milestone for the Ignaz Semmelweis Institute, supporting both its scientific mission and its continued growth as a collaborative research network.
Copyright pictures: feelimage / Matern
