The FORGENOM Annual Workshop is a three-day training and networking event organised within the FORGENOM project, aimed at supporting early-career researchers, PhD candidates, and talented Master’s students in genomics, bioinformatics, and related life-science disciplines. The workshop combines expert talks, presentation training, and discussions on cross-cutting research topics, fully aligned with Horizon Europe principles, and provides a supportive and interactive environment that strengthens scientific excellence, responsible research practices, communication skills, and the development of a well-connected research community.

Connecting Life Sciences: EMBL & ELIXIR Opportunities for Researchers

The event introduces the FORGENOM project and presents key European life-science research infrastructures and platforms coordinated by Comenius University in Bratislava. Participants will gain an overview of opportunities available to researchers in Slovakia through European Molecular Biology Laboratory, ELIXIR, and activities of the European Federation of Biochemical Societies. The session focuses on navigating the European Research Area, supporting researcher mobility, and making strategic use of international research infrastructures.

PhD student presentations

Doctoral candidates will present their research projects in front of a mock committee and receive structured feedback on both scientific content and presentation skills. The presentations will be held in English, as the evaluation committee will consist of an international team. This format will allow for full discussion and feedback from all committee members. Each student will have a 20-minute slot (15 minutes presentation + 5 minutes discussion), simulating a PhD defence or conference setting and helping participants to:

• refine their scientific narrative and methodology

• improve clarity and structure of presentations

• strengthen their ability to respond to critical questions

  
  

Master’s students’ presentations

Selected students will deliver presentation in front of a mock committee. Presentations will be held in English to ensure full interaction with the international evaluation committee. Short presentation blocks (10 minutes presentation + 5 minutes discussion) provide constructive feedback on scientific content and communication skills, supporting early development of academic competencies.

Workshop: Cross-Cutting Topics in Research

The final session is a workshop on cross-cutting topics in research, addressing key aspects of a modern research career:

• the publishing process

• research ethics and integrity

• gender equality in science

• research data management

• communication in research and science outreach

PROGRAM

Schedule of lectures

We thank all participants in advance and look forward to your participation!