EuChemS Chemistry in Life Sciences Division – 4th Young Investigator Workshop (YIW 2024)
The 4th Young Investigator Workshop of the EuChemS Chemistry in Life Sciences Division was held on 12 and 13 July 2024 in Galway, Ireland (https://www.universityofgalway.ie/euchems-yiw/). 14 Young investigators from 12 different countries got together and presented innovative research across various field, including new fluorophores for live cell imaging, advanced protein structure characterization techniques by NMR and Cryo-EM, the design and application of nanoreactors, etc. Each presentation was followed by engaging Q&A sessions, fostering a collaborative atmosphere and encouraging the exchange of ideas. The workshop also featured a plenary session by Nobel Laureate Frances Arnold (California Institute of Technology, USA), introducing her research career in enzyme evolution. The talk reviewed how she started the pioneering work of artificial enzyme directed evolution and her recent work into the cutting-edge topics of making enzymes to tackle great challenges in the current world, such as making new chemicals by biocatalysts instead of noble metals, and plastic degradation. Her talk also included future directions of enzyme directed evolution, by incorporating machine learning and artificial intelligence into the enzyme engineering. The talk was both motivating and enlightening, leaving the audience with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm for their work.
Networking breaks and social events were thoughtfully interspersed throughout the program, providing ample opportunities to connect with fellow attendees and build professional relationships. Overall, this event brought together emerging scientists from various fields of chemistry, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and networking. The high-quality presentations, coupled with the excellent organization and welcoming atmosphere of the University of Galway, made it a truly memorable and impactful event. The next Young Investigator Workshop will be oirganized along with the European Chemical Biology Symposium 2025 in Paris.
Shiqi Wang
Principal Investigator
Faculty of Pharmacy
University of Helsinki
shiqi.wang@helsinki.fi