Young EMERG - European ME Research Group Early Career Researchers
Reflections and insights into the 5th Young EMERG SPARK ME workshop
Reflections and insights into the 5th Young EMERG SPARK ME workshop
Read on to discover how we spark innovation and drive forward the research agenda for ME/CFS!
Over the past five years, the world of biomedical research has seen a significant expansion in both its
scope and objectives—largely driven by the impact of the pandemic.
In this evolving landscape, early career researchers (ECRs) have taken on a pivotal role.
Their fresh perspectives, unburdened by longstanding assumptions, are especially valuable in emerging fields
like ME/CFS, where innovative thinking is essential.
In response to this need, the Young EMERG association was founded in 2023 [1] - a Europe-wide network dedicated
to supporting ECRs committed to advancing ME/CFS research.
Our goal is to foster a vibrant, collaborative community where young researchers can connect, exchange ideas,
and build lasting partnerships, laying the groundwork for meaningful breakthroughs in the field.
SPARK ME, the ECR Symposium For promoting the Advancement of Research Knowledge in ME
As part of its mission, Young EMERG co-organised and chaired the SPARK ME workshop
(Symposium for Promoting Advancement of Research Knowledge in ME), a dynamic event funded by UK charity Invest in ME Research.
Held during the annual Invest in ME Research International ME Conference Week, the workshop provides early career researchers
with a valuable platform to share their work, exchange ideas, and build collaborations. With sessions on cutting-edge research, funding strategies, and career development,
SPARK ME fosters meaningful dialogue and equips the next generation of ME/CFS researchers
to drive progress in the field.
Every year, the SPARK ME event brings together researchers from Europe, North America and Australia. The workshop hosted a diverse group of participants, including mostly PhD students and young post-docs, but also master students and principal investigators (PIs) from a wide range of disciplines. Represented fields spanned biological sciences (such as immunology, neuroscience, and genetics), medical sciences (including medicine and public health), and computational areas like bioinformatics and statistics, creating a rich, interdisciplinary environment.
Feedback
Ths year's Young EMERG SPARK-ME workshop was confirmed as a valuable moment of networking for the attendees both to known other young scientists or speakers from the different sessions. The overall atmosphere was described as inspiring and collaborative.
Participants appreciated the opportunity to learn about ME-related research through dynamic presentations. There was notable interest
in bioinformatics, machine learning, and clinical aspects of ME, with a wish for clearer diagnostic criteria to be addressed.
Several attendees valued patient perspectives and personal PhD stories, which added a human touch.
Suggestions included international
mentoring programs and activities tailored to non-European researchers. Overall, people felt welcomed and supported, and many
left with ideas for future collaborations.
The event was generally seen as a positive step forward in building the ME research young community.
The Workshop’s Networking Landscape Played a Crucial Role in Driving Progress in ME/CFS Research
The afternoon of the first day was dedicated to networking activities, with participants divided into focus groups to exchange ideas and connect. Several key questions about ME/CFS emerged, particularly around how to strengthen networks in the field and how the youth community envisions its role in driving change. A central theme was the need to raise awareness and educate the public about the disease, alongside discussions on which areas of current research require more support and further development. To top it off, a delightful new mascot was even created—adding a spark of creativity to the collaborative spirit.
The two-day workshop on ME/CFS fostered insightful discussions, collaborative momentum, and a renewed commitment to advancing research in this complex condition. We’re grateful to all participants for their contributions and look forward to the next steps together.
Further Information
Contact / Join Young EMERG
Interested in being part of this exciting European initiative or staying in the loop about future Young EMERG events? Reach out to us—together, we can accelerate progress in ME/CFS research in Europe!
Use the contact form below to join up with Young EMERG.
Please also provide any details of your research or your plans.