The initial idea of creating a Department Joint Meeting sparked in a conversation between Prof. Gerhard Ecker, Prof. Thierry Langer and me. Back then, we were discussing ways to informally share the incredible knowledge and the expertise present within the walls of our building. We imagined a format that could, up to a certain extent, “break the hierarchy” and provide opportunities to discuss our science - from the newly arrived students to the experienced full professor. During such event, scientists could have a simple and honest exchange of ideas and experiences with their neighbors and colleagues.

The idea became reality when in July 2018, when we organized the very first edition of the Joint Meeting series. The first session was an immediate success and generated great interest. Since then the meeting expanded including our friends from Inte:Ligand and from the neighbor Pharmacognosy Department. Originally, half of the time was dedicated to presentations and half to a ”getting together” with food and drinks. The format has then been adapted to become more engaging. In that purpose we added the “challenge session”, an elevator pitch in which researchers can expose a problem or challenge they are facing in their current project, gathering then suggestions and ideas to hopefully overcome the presented issue. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere that characterizes the Joint Meetings is in fact the most fertile ground to grow solutions.

This 7th edition was also a nice occasion to welcome Professor Johannes Kirchmair, who started his professorship at the beginning of the 2020.

Each edition is an opportunity to witness the scientific excellence the Pharmaceutical Department holds and I am grateful for the enthusiasm everyone is showing.

I am very much looking forward to organize the next event!

Riccardo