As part of the CHARM-EU European University alliance, the Universities of Montpellier (UM), Utrecht, and Barcelona have launched an innovative teaching module designed to strengthen training in integrated and translational research. Called “Tackling challenges through international linked research hub”, this experimental module is open to students from the partner universities and places challenge-based learning at the heart of its approach.
Its goal: to mobilize international research networks to tackle real-world health issues, bringing together diverse disciplines, expertise, and innovative pedagogical practices.
An inaugural conference focused on the challenges of immunotherapy
The opening conference, “From Immune Activation to Toxicity: Challenges on Cancer Immunotherapies”, took place on 24 September 2025 at the IRCM (Institute of Cancer Research of Montpellier), in collaboration with SIRIC-3 Montpellier Cancer.
The event gathered:
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clinicians,
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researchers,
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and patient partners involved in SIRIC programs,
who engaged with an international and multidisciplinary group of students. Discussions highlighted the scientific, medical, and societal challenges linked to cancer immunotherapies, with a strong emphasis on translational perspectives.
Students guided by SIRIC mentors
Guided by mentors affiliated with SIRIC, students will work in teams throughout the module to design their own translational research proposals on colorectal cancer (CRC). These projects are expected to foster collaboration across laboratories, disciplines, and clinical settings.
A public presentation in December 2025
The module will conclude with a public presentation of the students’ research proposals in December 2025. This final step will serve both as the culmination of their collaborative work within the Research Hubs and as a real-world exercise in developing scientific project proposals.
