A springboard for new collaborations and professional development
As in previous years, the poster session at Danish Cancer Research Days will take the form of moderated poster walks with discussion groups. Photo: DCCC/Jesper Balleby
14-03-2025
If you are conducting research in the field of cancer, submitting an abstract to Danish Cancer Research Days should be a top priority. The conference provides a valuable platform to showcase your research, gain usefull feedback, and initiate new professional collaborations.
This is emphasised by Signe Borgquist, Clinical Chair Professor in oncology at Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, and organiser of the session New Danish cancer researchers in spotlight, where seven promising new researchers will be selected based on submitted abstracts. Her perspective is shared by two researchers who have previously participated in the conference.
As Denmark’s largest cancer research conference, Danish Cancer Research Days takes an interdisciplinary approach, bringing together researchers across specialties and professional backgrounds. This creates a strong foundation for new perspectives and collaborative opportunities.
“For new researchers who may not yet have an extensive network or much experience presenting their work, this is an especially valuable platform. It offers the chance to practise communicating their research and to receive constructive feedback from experienced researchers and clinicians – input that can meaningfully support their future work,” says Signe Borgquist.
Jesper Nors, MD and PhD at the Department of Surgery, Randers Regional Hospital, has experienced how the interdisciplinary format of the conference can inspire new ideas and perspectives, strengthen ongoing research, and lead to meaningful collaborations. He presented his work during the poster session in 2023, and in 2024 his abstract was selected for presentation on the main stage.
“One of the key strengths of the conference is its interdisciplinary nature. At most conferences, you only meet professionals from your own speciality. Here, you get input from professionals with different backgrounds. They ask questions and share perspectives you might not have thought of – and that can give you new ideas for your own research,” says Jesper Nors.
“It’s also a good opportunity to expand your network and start new collaborations across different fields and regions. Other researchers might approach you because your research relates to their work with a different group of patients. That’s how new partnerships can start. For me, the networking and input from other areas were really valuable. I’ve personally made new connections and started new collaborations because of the conference.”
From abstract to spotlight
Each year, around 110 submitted abstracts are selected for presentation during the poster session, while seven promising new researchers are invited to take the main stage. These selected researchers are offered professional coaching to help them prepare for presenting their research in front of more than 500 conference participants at the conference.
Presenting on the main stage at Danish Cancer Research Days is a unique experience, says Mathilde Egelund Christensen, who submitted her abstract in 2022 and, like Jesper Nors, was selected to present her research at the main stage. Mathilde is an MD and PhD Student at the Department of Haematology at Rigshospitalet.
“It was an incredible experience – both nerve-wracking and exciting. The training and preparation helped me feel ready – but I was still nervous,” says Mathilde, who still uses the techniques she learned during the course.
Like Jesper Nors, Mathilde Egelund Christensen also highlights the conference’s interdisciplinary approach and strong networking potential.
“It’s a unique conference that brings together both junior and senior cancer researchers and showcases the latest Danish cancer research in a high-quality scientific programme. I strongly encourage researchers to submit abstracts and attend – it’s a great opportunity to discuss your results with leading experts in the field, network, and gain inspiration for future studies. The chance to meet across specialties and exchange knowledge and experiences is truly valuable,” Mathilde emphasises.
Take a leap
Like Jesper Nors and Mathilde Egelund Christensen, Signe Borgquist also strongly encourages researchers to submit an abstract for Danish Cancer Research Days 2025. Her message is clear:
“Take a leap and submit your abstract. Danish Cancer Research Days is a unique opportunity to present your research while building a network across the country and across specialties – including people you might not usually engage with. It can open doors to new types of collaboration and help strengthen your professional profile.”
The Call for Abstracts is open until 4 April 2025. Read more and submit your abstract online.
Danish Cancer Research Days will take place in Odense on 28–29 August 2025, and registration opens on 6 May 2025. Stay updated at www.dccc.dk.