“Eye & Inflammation” Summer School Brings Young Researchers from Around the World to Cologne
For one week, knowledge transfer took center stage at the Department of Ophthalmology at the University Hospital Cologne, shining a special spotlight on our ongoing, everyday eye research: From September 7 to 11, 2026, the “Eye & Inflammation” Summer School organized by SFB 1607 took place. Fifteen highly motivated early-career researchers from the fields of biology, biomedicine, and medicine gained exciting insights into current research questions surrounding inflammatory and age-related eye diseases.
Amid beautiful late-summer weather, participants enjoyed a varied program that combined theoretical foundations with hands-on laboratory experience and state-of-the-art research methods. They took the opportunity to expand their scientific networks, forge international connections, and initiate future collaborations.
From Corneal Biology to Artificial Intelligence
Through lectures and hands-on workshops, the early-career researchers explored various areas of ophthalmology and biomedical research. The program covered, among other topics, the pathology of the cornea and retina, glaucoma, metabolic processes, as well as ocular tumors and infectious diseases.
Particular emphasis was placed on hands-on work: In various laboratories, participants were able to learn about and apply methods such as cell culture, antibody staining, microscopy, FACS, and the preparation of eye tissue under the guidance of experts from SFB 1607. In addition, they gained insights into OCT imaging, modern image analysis techniques, bioinformatics, and the use of artificial intelligence in ophthalmological research.
“Our goal was to introduce young researchers to the diversity of modern eye research and give them the opportunity to learn about new methods and gain hands-on experience in the lab. We are very pleased with the high level of commitment and enthusiasm shown by our participants as well as their positive feedback. The summer school demonstrated just how valuable personal and interdisciplinary exchange is for young researchers,” said Prof. Dr. Felix Bock, Leader of the Integrated Graduate School of SFB 1607.
The “Eye & Inflammation” Summer School underscores SFB 1607’s commitment to fostering the next generation of scientists and promoting interdisciplinary networking in eye research.