From December 04-08, 2017, the Munich International Autumn School (short: MIAS) was held for the fifth time at the Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC). Organized by the CPC Research School and greatly supported by AtemWeg - The Lung Disease Research Foundation, as well as by an unrestricted educational grant by Boehringer Ingelheim, participants learned about recent advancements in respiratory science in form of outstanding lectures by experts in the field, hands-on practical sessions in laboratories, and interactive activities to get both theoretical and practical questions answered that may promote the participant’s own research interests.
The MIAS curriculum was composed of lectures held by experts in the respiratory field and practical training modules, including the work with primary cells, cell culture, screening assays, flow cytometry and FACS, as well as lung bioengineering, and 3D live cell and tissue imaging. The program was complemented by clinical on-site visits at the Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, the Asklepios Pulmonary Hospital Munich-Gauting, and the outpatient unit to provide insights into practiced lung medicine.
Being multi-interdisciplinary within the respiratory field, 16 young scientists and clinicians with a PhD or MD background were invited to join the event, coming from all over the world, e.g. the US, Brazil, Venezuela, Armenia, Belgium, Germany, etc. They all showed a strong interest in the content of the lectures and practical assignments and interacted quite strongly with each other and both the speakers and instructors of the courses. Small groups of 5-6 participants each allowed enough room for everyone to get specific input for their own research projects. Starting from the welcome event, first contacts were exchanged and research ideas discussed. Lunch breaks were continuously used to mingle and exchange ideas and to get to know each other better. All participants took the chance to network, also during the MIAS dinner event – yet another highlight of the week, allowing room for more questions and interaction but also for fun times within the group, especially on the dancefloor.
In addition to the MIAS curriculum, the participants had the opportunity to attend the CPC Research School Career Day, an annual event that is organized by senior PhD students. While it was possibly of more benefit to the people who study and live here in Munich, many of our guests were also interested to learn about career opportunities and company profiles in the Munich area. Some speakers gave valuable insights on career development and planning, which was an additional benefit to the attendees.
We would like to thank all attendees and helpers for making this event again another highlight of the year.