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Join us in Madrid from 26–30 January 2026 for the Winter Training School “Emerging Topics in Early-Stage Drug Discovery”.

Nov. 13, 2025

Applications are now open for the Winter Training School “Emerging Topics in Early-Stage Drug Discovery”, which will take place from 26–30 January 2026 at our partner site in Madrid, the Biological Research Center “Margarita Salas” (CIB-CSIC). Organised jointly by the TargetRNA, IMPULSE, and Fragment Screen networks, this international training event will bring together around 30 PhD students and early-career scientists from this networks for a focused week of scientific lectures, practical computational training and discussions on RNA-based therapeutic strategies.

A Deep Dive Into RNA-Driven Drug Discovery

Participants will explore the rapidly evolving field of RNA-targeted therapeutics and gain a broad understanding of the full drug discovery pipeline—from early target identification to translational considerations. The programme includes:

  • Biological and structural principles of RNA as a drug target, with emphasis on antimicrobial applications

  • Modern discovery technologies, including fragment-based design, label-free interaction analysis and AI-supported modelling tools

  • Practical computational training, such as structure-based design sessions using PyMOL

  • Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) discussions addressing societal and ethical considerations

  • Flash talks and networking sessions to exchange ideas directly with peers and experts

Practical Information

  • Dates: 26–30 January 2026

  • Location: Biological Research Center “Margarita Salas” (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain

  • Workload: Participation (including preparatory work and reporting) corresponds to 3 ECTS. Certificates will be issued to eligible participants.

  • Costs: Participation is free of charge, but attendees are responsible for their own travel and accommodation.

Application Timeline

  • Application deadline: 15 December

  • Notification of acceptance: 20 December

Click here to register

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