Beyond the Bench: Cultivating the Scientist, Empowering the Person
The PhD Students Meeting 2026 is not only a showcase for groundbreaking research; it is a space where the scientific community grows as a whole. Under the vision of "Beyond the Bench," we have curated a series of initiatives designed to bridge the gap between laboratory excellence and human well-being.
Our program extends far beyond data and protocols, embracing three fundamental pillars:
Community & Networking: From the open-air Poster Sessions in our Institute’s garden to informal evenings at inclusive local venues like Robb de Matt, we create environments where spontaneous dialogue and interdisciplinary collaborations can flourish away from the pressure of the lab.
Creativity & Vision: Through our Art in Science contest, we celebrate the aesthetic power of discovery, encouraging researchers to translate their complex data into visual masterpieces that speak to the heart as much as the mind.
Awareness & Responsibility: We believe that being a scientist means caring for public health, starting with our own. In collaboration with local partners, we provide dedicated spaces for mental health resilience and sexual health prevention, offering resources and onsite services to support our students' overall well-being.
We know that great science is driven by healthy, inspired, and connected people.
The PhD social mixer
We invite all participants to join us for an informal evening at Robb de Matt, a unique social promotion project located in the heart of the Dergano district.
Why Robb de Matt?
More than just a bistro, Robb de Matt is a social inclusion hub that promotes training and employment for people in fragile conditions. We chose this venue because it reflects our vision of a science that is open, inclusive, and deeply connected to the local community.
What to Expect:
A Relaxed Atmosphere: Step away from the lab bench and enjoy an evening in a vibrant, welcoming space.
Networking & Dialogue: The perfect setting to continue the conversations started during the Poster Sessions, foster new interdisciplinary connections, and share future perspectives.
Live Music Sessions: Unwind and enjoy the evening with a live soundtrack. We believe that music, like science, is a universal language that brings people together and sparks creativity.
How to Reach the venue: The venue is easily accessible from the Institute. See all indication here
RSVP & Registration
To help us organize the best possible experience and ensure everyone’s comfort, please confirm your attendance fillng out the short registration form below. It will only take 2 minutes of your time!
PhD students meeting Social event
Join us to celebrate the end of the meeting, catch up with colleagues, and build the future of our research community together.
Art in Science: The Beauty of Discovery
A creative contest where researchers become artists. From microscopy masterpieces to data-driven visuals, we celebrate the aesthetic side of scientific exploration. Because science is not just about data; it’s about the unique way we envision the world.
Submit a scientific image derived from your research—this could be microscopy, assay results, molecular visualizations, or experimental data—anything that reflects your work. The twist? It should not only be scientifically meaningful, but also visually striking and artistic.
How to Participate
Submit one original image generated from your research
Include a short caption (max. 150 words) explaining:
The scientific context
The artistic perspective or inspiration
Ensure the image is high-resolution (JPEG/PNG format)
Send your submission to: Art in Science: The Beauty of Discovery
Deadline: 18th May 2026
Evaluation Criteria
Entries will be judged based on:
Scientific relevance
Creativity and originality
Visual impact
Why Participate?
Showcase your research in a new light
Gain visibility within the scientific community
Compete for exciting prizes and recognition
Let your research speak not only to the mind—but also to the eye.
Awareness Matters: Sexual Health & Prevention
A dedicated space for information and awareness on STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections). In collaboration with Milano Check Point, we offer onsite rapid testing for HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis C, alongside professional counseling. Because being a scientist means caring for public health, starting with our own community.
Milano Check Point is a community-based, non-profit organization and a reference point in Milan for sexual health and prevention. It offers a safe, non-judgmental, and welcoming environment for everyone, with a focus on young people and marginalized communities.
Managed by dedicated volunteers and healthcare professionals, the center provides:
Rapid & Anonymous Testing: Fast screening for HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis C (HCV), with results available in minutes.
Professional Counseling: Peer-to-peer and specialist support to discuss sexual health, risk reduction, and prevention strategies.
Information & Awareness: A hub for reliable scientific information on PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections).
By bringing their expertise to the PhD Students Meeting 2026, Milano Check Point helps us bridge the gap between scientific research and public health, promoting a culture of care and awareness within our own community.
Onsite Services
During the PhD Students Meeting, Milano Check Point will be available in a dedicated, private area to offer the following confidential services to all participants:
Rapid Screening: Anonymous tests for HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis C .
One-on-One Counseling: A private space to ask questions, receive information on STIs, and discuss prevention strategies.
How to Participate: Book Your Session
To ensure maximum privacy and avoid crowding, we have organized the service into dedicated time slots throughout the day.
Confidentiality: Your registration is used solely for scheduling purposes by the organizing committee. Medical data is handled exclusively by professionals during your session.
Multiple Services: If you are interested in both testing and counseling, please submit the form for each service to reserve enough time.
Walk-ins: While booking is highly recommended, a limited number of spots may be available on the day of the event.
Click here to book your slot: Awarness matters: Sexual Health & Testing @PhD Meeting 2026