BREATH Retreat with a full program and a full house

On October 21 and 22, 2024, the current BREATH Retreat took place. Over the course of both days, experienced scientists and young researchers alike shared their latest projects and ideas for shaping the future research profile at the BREATH site. The Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) praised the strong network among researchers, both within BREATH and across the DZL.

It feels as though we just gathered a few months ago for the last BREATH Retreat, but in fact, it was back in 2021. Much has happened since then: the new, fourth funding period has begun, new Disease-Spanning Working Groups have been established, and there have been personnel changes in both the Scientific Advisory Board and the BREATH executive board. Around 90 participants from MHH, Fraunhofer ITEM, LUH, and HZI attended this year’s BREATH Retreat—the highest number ever.

Prof. Dr. Gesine Hansen, who has taken over the site directorship at BREATH following the sudden passing of Prof. Dr. Tobias Welte, opened the two packed days with a brief retrospective on the 12-year history of BREATH and DZL. Each Disease Area then had the opportunity to present their latest projects, ideas, and collaborations and to engage in discussions with the SAB. The SAB provided ongoing feedback, suggesting, for example, collaborations between researchers in pediatric and adult diseases or further connection points for ongoing projects. The evening of the first day focused on young scientists, with four young talents presenting their selected projects, followed by an engaging exchange with the SAB during a poster session.

The second day began with contributions from the transdisciplinary platforms, the new Disease-Spanning Working Groups, and cross-cutting Innovation Funds of the German Centers for Health Research (DZG). The day concluded with exciting spotlight presentations from four selected junior researchers.

In her closing remarks, Prof. Hansen emphasized the close collaboration between various clinics and institutes at the Hannover site, noting that BREATH has become a true family over the years, continuously growing closer. This positive sentiment was echoed in the SAB’s feedback, which especially commended the forward-looking support for young scientists and the broad research scope at the site.

We are pleased to offer such a trusting work environment with open exchanges for our doctors and scientists in Hannover and always welcome feedback on how we can continue to improve in the future.

 

Text: BREATH/ AB

Foto: BREATH/ AB, AZ
 

Participants of the BREATH Retreat 2024

Dr. Jannik Ruwisch with his winning entry at the ERS Science Slam 2024