During the annual AI&I PhD retreat, this year’s AI&I PhD committee brought science and art together under one theme: Art in Immunity & Infection. Held over two inspiring days, the retreat created a space for connection, reflection, and a celebration of the many talents within our AI&I PhD community.
The retreat kicked off with an insightful keynote by Dr. Juan Garcia Vallejo and Marie Sissel Ton, who presented their collaborative project Becoming a Sentinel Species—a great example of where science meets art.
During this retreat, the creative energy of our PhD students truly flourished —whether during presentations, interactive workshops, or hands-on sessions. Highlights included:
Artistic workshops
- Paint your science
- Latte art workshop
- Story telling in Academia by Dr. Stephen Bercher
- Thesis design tips by Ridderprint
- Exhibition by Tineke van der Schouten
Mental wellbeing in academia
The second day started off with a thoughtful presentation on how to navigate the stormy seas in academia by Dr. Joeri Tijdink, he and Barbara Leitner led a powerful M-power workshop on speaking up in difficult situations and highlighted the importance of mental health in academic life.
Scientific Highlights
- Best project pitch: Tick me by Philip Elders– fully in theme.
- Best parallel speakers: Jonas Jäger, Ricky Siebeler, and Jeffrey Umotoy
- Best poster: Lobke Zijlstra
Inspiration & Entertainment
To wrap things up, Dutch comedian and scientist Dr. Rob Urgert delivered a hilarious and thought-provoking show: “How to Get a Brilliant Idea in 3 Steps”, reminding us that creativity and curiosity go hand in hand.
A huge thank you to our sponsors: Miltenyi, Ridderprint, BioLegend, and BioConnect for supporting this unique event.
Want to get involved next year?
Do you have some ideas for the next edition, want to learn how to organize such an event in a low-key manner or simply join our lovely PhD committee? Send a mail to AI&I (aii@amsterdamumc.nl) and we’ll see you soon!
Organized with enthusiastic creativity by:
Noah Dekker, Kate Mudie, Rianne van der Burgt, Anita Lygeroudi, Merve Kocyigit & Laura Fernandez Blanco (from left to right on picture below)
