OPEN CLASS
How to survive the Valley of Death: The personal toolkit of a Translational Scientist
May 14, 2026
6:30-8:00 PM (CEST)
Online
Program:
-
6:30-7:30 PM (CEST) | How to survive the Valley of Death: The personal toolkit of a Translational Scientist
-
7:30-8:00 PM (CEST) | Master Presentation and Q&A
Do you want to take part in the Open Class?

Why join the Open Class
Turn research into real impact
Break through the “Valley of Death” and move beyond discovery. This open class, “How to survive the Valley of Death: The personal toolkit of a Translational Scientist”, is designed for professionals and early-career researchers who want to make a tangible difference in patients’ lives. Because today, knowledge alone is not enough—what truly matters is the ability to turn ideas into action.
Understand what it really takes
During the session, you will discover why so many innovations never reach patients and what it takes to change that. You’ll explore the essential skills needed to move from research to implementation, developing a mindset built on collaboration, creativity, and real-world problem solving.
Build the skills that define the future
You will learn how to think strategically across the entire research-to-impact pathway, communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, and lead with resilience in complex environments. These are the competencies that define the next generation of professionals in healthcare and research—and that will enable you to create real, lasting impact.
Fill in the form to register for the Open Class
Once you have completed the form, you will receive an email with instructions on how to participate.
Speakers
Bonini Chiara
Full Professor of Hematology at Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and Vice Director of Immunology Research at San Raffaele Scientific Institute. A pioneer in cellular and gene therapy, she has led groundbreaking clinical trials on engineered T cells for cancer and immune disorders. Her work bridges cutting-edge science and patient care, shaping the future of immunotherapy worldwide. With international experience from institutions like Fred Hutchinson and Memorial Sloan Kettering, she is a recognized leader in translational research. Passionate about innovation, Bonini’s research continues to redefine therapeutic strategies against hematologic malignancies and beyond.
Berent Prakken
Emeritus Professor of Pediatric Immunology at UMC Utrecht and honorary professor at Ghent University. Until 2025, he served as Vice Dean for Education and Director of the Biomedical Education Center. He is currently Executive Director for Utrecht in CHARM-EU, an Erasmus+ initiative for cooperation among European universities. He founded a translational research laboratory focused on immune regulation and biomarkers. He has supervised over 50 PhD students and received numerous honors. He has served as President of PRES, member of the EULAR Executive Committee, and advisor to the Gezondheidsraad. Co-founder of the Eureka Institute, he continues to promote educational innovation and international collaborations.
