Invitation and call for applications
We are excited to share that our team is organizing the upcoming FEBS Advanced Lecture Course “Retina in a Dish: Methods & Applications in Life Sciences”, which will take place at the University of Eastern Finland in Kuopio from 8–12 June 2026. The course is part of the prestigious FEBS Advanced Courses Programme.
“Retina in a Dish” is designed as a technique-rich experience for PhD students, postdocs, and early-career researchers working in visual neuroscience, ophthalmology, pharmacology, toxicology, and related fields. Over five days, participants will immerse themselves in ex vivo retinal methodologies; including organotypic cultures, acute preparations, and functional assays, and learn how these systems can be applied to study disease mechanisms, test therapeutics, and explore fundamental retinal biology.
One of the true strengths of this course is our incredible lineup of international speakers. We are honored to welcome leading experts in the field, including Professor Krzysztof (Kris) Palczewski, whose contributions have fundamentally shaped modern retinal biology and vision science. Alongside him, the course brings together an exceptional group of scientists representing diverse expertise across retinal physiology, degeneration, imaging, and translational approaches. Their lectures and discussions will provide participants with both breadth and depth, bridging molecular mechanisms to treatment perspectives.
In addition to scientific and technical content, the course also features sessions on academic writing, publishing, grant strategy, and career development. Our goal is to provide not only practical laboratory knowledge but also broader tools that support scientific growth.
All of this will take place in the scenic Finnish Lakeland region, offering an inspiring backdrop for learning, discussion, and networking with colleagues from across Europe and beyond.
Applications are open until 31 March 2026. Selected participants may be eligible for FEBS Youth Travel Funding.
We warmly welcome motivated early-career researchers to join us in Kuopio for a week of science, skills, and collaboration. We look forward to meeting many of you next June.Learn more about the course: FEBS Advanced Lecture Course 2026 – Retina in a dish: Methods & applications in life sciences