The Einstein Doctoral Program at the BSIO Charité, has significantly contributed to improving the training and support of young researchers in cancer research. Through the program, various structural bottlenecks that hinder the career paths of translational cancer researchers were addressed. The support from the Einstein Foundation not only enabled the implementation of innovative programs but also helped, especially during the pandemic, to develop new tools and formats that were integrated into daily research routines.
One important contribution to the program was the introduction of the "BSIO meets High School" format, which gave high school students direct insight into translational cancer research. Through lectures and discussions, high school students were able to gain a better understanding of the daily work of cancer researchers. This initiative will continue and expand in the future.
Another important aspect of the support was the strengthening of scientific education in the curriculum. Through numerous lecture series, workshops, and symposia, enthusiasm for experimental research was fostered, and interdisciplinary exchange between the natural sciences and medicine was promoted. A particular highlight was the introduction of the Data Science Café, which gave PhD students the opportunity to discuss complex questions about data visualization and programming with experts.
The support from the Einstein Foundation also improved conditions for doctoral students in integrative oncology. Targeted financial support and workshops helped to promote independent projects and advance the career development of PhD students. Notably, the BSIO Accelerator Program for outstanding research projects and the annual retreats provided valuable opportunities for scientific feedback and networking. Emphasizing topics such as mental health, which came to the forefront during the pandemic, allowed the program to better address the personal needs of its PhD students.
Despite the restrictions imposed by the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, the program was able to promote the international networking of its students. When travel was not possible, online conferences were supported. In the following years, active participation in conferences was again encouraged, giving students the opportunity to present their research internationally and establish valuable connections.
Another positive contribution was the targeted promotion of scientific independence. A mentoring program supported PhD students and postdocs on their path to scientific autonomy. Numerous workshops on career development and research-related topics were also offered. Two outstanding young female researchers were supported in establishing their own research groups using the BSIO Mini-Lab Award.
The support from the Einstein Foundation was an invaluable tool for further developing the BSIO graduate program at Charité, especially during the challenging pandemic period. Many of the introduced formats, such as the promotion of mental health, the Data Science workshops, and the mentoring program, will continue beyond the funding period and contribute to the sustainable improvement of the working conditions for cancer researchers. The close collaboration with the foundation has not only increased the attractiveness of the program but has also enhanced international visibility and networking