We are excited to welcome you to the first Utrecht Cancer annual event, where early-career researchers from across the Utrecht Science Park will come together to network, engage in meaningful conventions, and strengthen connections within the cancer research community.
Evolutionary ecologist and ant expert Aniek Ivens takes us on a journey to the wonderful world of cooperation in nature. Aniek Ivens has a passion for everything related to cooperation, both in nature and in daily life. In this lecture, you’ll explore the many facets of cooperation in nature: from ant colonies to schools of fish and birds that work together with humans. What is needed for successful cooperation? What are the challenges? And can we perhaps learn something from nature?
About Prof. Samra Turajlic
Prof. Samra Turajlic is the Director of the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute and a renowned Clinician Scientist. Her research spans melanoma genetics, targeted therapy resistance, and the drivers of rare melanomas. She leads groundbreaking studies on tumour initiation and metastasis and is a key figure in advancing translational cancer science. Prof. Turajlic has received numerous prestigious awards, including the ESMO Translational Research Award.
About Dr. Aniek Ivens
Dr. Aniek Ivens is an evolutionary biologist and ant specialist whose research focuses on the evolution of cooperation in nature. With experience in Groningen, Copenhagen, New York, and Amsterdam, she now works as an independent biologist and sustainability researcher. She also translates scientific insights on collaboration into practice through applied improvisation to foster and enhance collaborative practices within professional contexts.
The goal of this event is to serve as the kickoff for creating a thriving, connected community of researchers from all institutes on the Utrecht Science Park. This will lay the foundation for sharing knowledge, nurturing collaborations, and fostering a supportive and inspiring work environment, all while collectively strengthening our efforts to address cancer research challenges from multiple perspectives.
This event is aimed at early-career researchers (Post-docs, PhD students, and Assistant Professors) in the field of cancer research.
