Our researcher survey confirms that OA publishing is the accepted norm within the network. We're now focusing our training to convert the "would like to" segment into active sharers. We're committed to making research on metastatic cancer public and accessible to all. 🔬

#OAweek #OpenScience

While prevention and early detection are vital, the Mac4Me Doctoral Network focuses on
researching the critical, complex challenge that follows: metastasis 🔬.

#InternationalDayAgainstBreastCancer #BreastCancerResearch #Mac4Me

Our science is patient-centric by design. We incorporate Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) to ensure that our outcomes and communication align with the needs and expectations of those affected.

(Image credit for the visual on the bottom left: Copyright © 2006 Volker Steger/Science Photo Library)

We focus on the Tumor Microenvironment (TME) at metastatic sites (bone, liver, brain)—not just the primary tumor.

💥 We investigate macrophages, immune cells that often become corrupted, acting as cancer's allies. By successfully "re-educating" these cells, we aim to create new therapeutic pathways.

We, at the Mac4Me Horizon Europe MSCA (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions) Doctoral Network, embody this spirit by bringing together researchers, patients, and other stakeholders to address the challenges of metastatic neuroblastoma, prostate, and breast cancer. Learn more about our work: www.mac4me.eu

🌍 Led by 14 core partners and supported by 11 associated partners, this project brings together experts from basic science, biomedical engineering, social sciences, computational biology, and other disciplines.
To learn more about our mission, visit our website: 🌐🔗 mac4me.eu

The atmosphere throughout the meeting was positive and productive! ✨This initial in-person encounter created significant consortium cohesion for many participants. This lays the groundwork for scientific and technical collaboration over the next four years. 🤝

A significant part of the training focused on Patient and Public Involvement (PPI)! 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Patient advocates from Dublin (PVCR) and the US (@graspcancer.bsky.social) joined us. We all learned about the importance of involving patients at every stage of the research process.

It wasn't just lectures! 💡 We also discussed the ethics of cancer research. The communication team (@ccsupf.bsky.social) also helped doctoral candidates produce short introductory videos for the website! 🎬 A key step towards making their research accessible to diverse audiences.

The training covered all the key content! 📚 We explored the clinical aspects of metastatic neuroblastoma, as well as breast and prostate cancers. We also looked at scientific methods such as single-cell mechanics and organ-on-chip technology.🔬

Before the kick-off, we held the first training session (23 - 24- 25 June) for our doctoral candidates at @erasmusmc.bsky.social ! 🧠 We're not just about scientific expertise; we're also focused on their professional and personal development. 🌱

Mac4Me brings together 14 partners across Europe, training 18 Doctoral Candidates to transform cancer metastasis research. Learn more about our international consortium and approach at mac4me.eu