Practical Understanding of Translational Medicine in an Academic Environment

From 11 to 14 November, an RSU representative participated in the international course “Translational Medicine Explained (TMex) 2025” in Barcelona, organized by EATRIS, within the framework of the project “RSU participation in the Horizon Europe programme”*. The course was dedicated to contemporary principles of translational medicine and their practical application. The programme offered an in-depth insight into how scientific ideas are developed into clinically applicable solutions, while taking regulatory, ethical and commercial contexts into account.

Translational medicine is increasingly regarded as a crucial link between academic research and patient care. In the TMex course, this connection was explored not only theoretically but also through practical tasks reflecting real-life working situations in interdisciplinary teams.

Targeted preparation for in-person work

The programme began with an e-learning phase that ensured a common knowledge base for all participants. This approach allowed the in-person sessions to focus on in-depth discussion, decision-making and problem-solving rather than repetition of theory.

Decision-making in translational processes

During the on-site sessions, the main emphasis was placed on simulations and case analyses. Participants worked on tasks illustrating various stages of translation - from idea assessment to challenges of clinical implementation. Particular attention was paid to collaboration between researchers, clinicians, industry representatives and regulators, highlighting that successful translation is not possible without mutual understanding among these stakeholders.
Practical exercises provided a safe environment to test different strategies and to identify potential risks that, in real projects, may significantly influence the course and outcomes of research.

The patient perspective as a quality criterion

The course highlighted patient involvement as an integral part of the translational process. The participation of representatives from patient organizations in discussions underscored the importance of assessing, at an early stage, how well research objectives align with real patient needs and improvements in quality of life.

Data, quality and responsibility

A separate block of tasks was dedicated to data management in translational research. Through simulations, issues related to data quality, security and accessibility were analyzed, emphasizing that data often determine the future development of a study and its credibility in a clinical setting.

A broader view of translational competences

In addition to scientific aspects, the course provided insights into the sustainability of translational projects, including intellectual property protection, collaboration with industry and fundraising. Participants were encouraged to identify their professional strengths and their roles within interdisciplinary teams, which is essential for successful work in translational medicine.

The programme also addressed less traditional but clinically important concepts, such as compassionate use and named-patient basis, broadening participants’ understanding of treatment possibilities for patients outside standard regulatory frameworks.

Significance for the RSU academic environment

Participation in the TMex programme demonstrates that practically oriented teaching methods - simulations, games and structured discussions - are an effective way to strengthen researchers’ competences and prepare them for work in complex translational projects. Such experience is particularly important in the RSU academic environment, where increasing emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary collaboration and the practical impact of research.

The information is provided within the framework of the project “RSU participation in the Horizon Europe programme” (No. 1.1.1.5/3/25/I/014).
 
* Project No. 1.1.1.5/3/25/I/014