Once again, VHIO opened its doors to welcome more than 160 people who came to experience a morning of science that was engaging, accessible, and at the same time closely connected to the latest advances in cancer research.
More than 50 VHIO professionals from a wide range of backgrounds—including biomedical, clinical, and computational research, as well as clinical trials and research support staff—contributed to making the event a collective success. Over the course of four hours, more than 25 activities were held, allowing people of all ages to learn, ask questions, and experience science firsthand.
Throughout the morning, guided tours were organized to explore key spaces where cancer research takes place, from laboratories to specialized areas such as the cytometry room, ultra-low temperature freezers, and shared equipment spaces. In addition, ShowLabs took place inside the laboratories, a format in which research groups demonstrated real-life procedures and experiments carried out in their daily work, such as PCR techniques or blood sample processing.
In parallel, the auditorium hosted three roundtable discussions moderated by VHIO’s communications team and featuring professionals from different areas of cancer research. These sessions fostered open and participatory conversations, with active involvement from the audience. Topics included cancer prevention research, the use of data and computational tools in oncology research, and the journey of a tumor sample within a center like VHIO—the latter inspired by the comic published in recent months to mark the institute’s 20th anniversary.
The event also featured a wide range of workshops for all ages. Younger children enjoyed a science storytelling session led by Merlin the Magician and his adventures. Children also took part in workshops exploring concepts such as mutations and genetic inheritance in cancer, as well as activities that invited them to step into the role of scientists by measuring volumes with laboratory tools or observing real samples under the microscope. For young people and adults, activities included workshops on genomic sequencing and tumor evolution, as well as career guidance sessions.
VHIO’s commitment to science communication
Local residents, students from schools across Barcelona and surrounding areas, family members of VHIO staff, patients and their families—among many others—spent the morning learning, asking questions, and engaging with research alongside those who make it possible every day. The result was an enriching experience, highly valued both by attendees and by the VHIO team.
VHIO remains committed to advancing excellence in cancer research while ensuring that every step forward is shared openly with society.
