Our Mission

At VHIO Academy we work to promote a collaborative research culture that supports scientific career progression and creates a flourishing work life that is essential for delivering high quality biomedical research and innovation. VHIO Academy provides a solid foundation for VHIO’s commitment to ethics, integrity, transparency and patient-centricity in scientific practices by supporting researcher development at all career stages and fostering a research culture that builds trust and improves the quality, impact, and reach of our findings.

Through the design of strategic projects that enhance the capacity of our scientific and medical workforce, the coordination of professional development opportunities that consolidate biomedical research careers, as well as the implementation of inclusive practices that create a thriving environment for everyone, VHIO Academy nurtures the robust and responsible scientific advances that contribute to the fight against cancer.

Established in 2021 under the principles of interdisciplinarity, scientific creativity, collaboration, communication and mentoring, the VHIO Academy has contributed significantly to the internationalization and diversification of VHIO’s workforce, enhanced the skillset of early career researchers and strengthened the interactions between biomedical researchers and the healthcare community, essential for the creation of sustainable bonds that ensure collective responsibility and generate impactful oncology research.

Our main goals

• Develop and coordinate cancer research-focused training programs  

• Enhance senior researchers’ mentoring and leadership skills to support and promote early career researchers’ careers 

• Foster a healthy and inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive professionally 

• Launch and manage institutional academic programs to attract talented professionals in oncology and cancer research 

• Establish and consolidate collaborations with Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCCs) and international cancer research consortia to further develop educational activities and expand professional networks 

• Facilitate the mobility of researchers and clinicians at the international level 

• Reinforce internal & external scientific communication and dissemination of cancer research findings 

Our team

Imma Falero – VHIO Academy Director

Alba Echarte – Academic Officer

Ana Martins Ribeiro, PhD – Research Culture & Development Officer

Carme Harris – International Attraction Officer

Eva Navarrete – Academic and Training Officer

Maria Yubero, PhD – Training Coordinator

Paula Rodríguez – Learning Management Administrator