Endorsed by ESTRO

My name is Julia Ostapowicz, and I am a biotechnologist and doctoral student at Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland. The Young Scientists' Forum 2.0 was a conference designed for scientists and students under the age of 35 who specialised in oncology-related sciences. The event, organised on 6 December 2024 in Poznan, Poland, offered a platform to explore this field through oral presentations and poster sessions and was endorsed by ESTRO.

Since my master’s studies, I have been part of the radiobiology laboratory at the Greater Poland Cancer Centre. My research is focused on the pathogenesis of head-and-neck cancers and the influence of tumour hypoxia on various cellular processes. I was deeply honoured to present the findings of my studies as an oral presentation during the Young Scientists' Forum 2.0.

My participation in this congress not only enabled me to share my work with experienced scientists and clinicians but also provided an excellent opportunity for me to exchange professional insights and establish new international collaborations.

During my presentation, I demonstrated the results of my research, which were obtained through a combination of bioinformatics, clinical material analysis, and functional in-vitro studies. I emphasised the significance of an interdisciplinary approach in cancer research. The discussion following my presentation highlighted several intriguing aspects that will shape the direction of my future experiments. All aspects of the presentation were equally assessed, including the research idea, study results, and proficiency in scientific discussion. I was grateful and proud to receive the award for the best oral presentation. As part of this recognition, I have received funding of up to 8,000 PLN to support my participation in a selected European Congress in 2025. This award is a valuable opportunity for young scientists to enhance their professional development, engage in international collaboration, and contribute to the advancement of research in their field.

Congresses such as the Young Scientists' Forum 2.0 play a pivotal role in promoting continuous learning and facilitating the exchange of knowledge. This event creates a unique platform for interdisciplinary collaboration among young scientists in oncology-related fields. The forum encourages participants to engage in scientific discussions and to refine their presentation abilities. Thank you for this invaluable experience. I look forward to this year’s forum, which will take place on 5 December 2025 in Poznan again. Mark your agendas!

Julia Ostapowicz presenting her study on “ERK2 silencing as a therapeutic strategy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: impact on cell survival, proliferation, and cycle arrest” at the Young Scientists' Forum 2.0

Julia Ostapowicz

Biotechnologist and doctoral student

Poznan University of Medical Sciences

Poland