Summer School for Early-Career Researchers
2026 CIMT/NIBIT Summer School
July 23-26, 2026
Erice (Sicily), Italy
Science, Collaboration, and Sicilian Culture
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of a former monastery in a medieval hilltop town overlooking Trapani, Sicily, this year's Summer School provided the perfect environment for scientific learning and networking.
Thirty-five PhD students and postdoctoral researchers joined nine expert speakers for three and a half days dedicated to cutting-edge cancer immunology. Topics ranged from CAR-T and CAR-NK cell engineering to neoantigen discovery and mRNA-based immunotherapy, offering participants insights into some of the most exciting developments in the field. In her lecture, "Turning Science into Survival", CIMT President Özlem Türeci shared her personal journey from a young medical doctor to becoming one of the world's leading cancer researchers, highlighting the determination, innovation, and translational vision that have shaped her career. The full list of speakers and lecture topics can be found in the Summer School program, which can be accessed via the button below
The program encouraged a lively exchange of ideas between early-career researchers and established scientists. Participant flash talks showcased innovative research projects and were complemented by poster presentations that sparked in-depth discussions throughout the event.
In addition to the scientific sessions, attendees explored the unique surroundings through a city tour and a visit to Trapani, combining academic excellence with memorable cultural experiences.