Young ESDR unites “scientifically young” scientists within the European Society for Dermatological Research, embracing a diverse community of dermatology researchers and clinicians from a variety of career paths. Founded in 2024, Young ESDR recognizes the unique journeys of its members, including those who have taken career breaks, pursued unconventional paths, or started families—factors that go beyond a simple metric of years post-PhD. This initiative is led by an inaugural board of four dedicated researchers, representing Young ESDR at the ESDR board, currently including Tiago Matos, Beatrice Dyring-Andersen, Clarisse Ganier and Chris Callewaert.
Young ESDR is committed to amplifying the voice of young dermatologists and skin scientists across Europe. Through flagship events like the Future Leaders Symposium and the annual ESDR Congress, Young ESDR is building a vibrant, collaborative community where young scientists can connect, exchange ideas, and advance their careers. The European Society for Dermatological Research has long supported the development of early-career researchers, beginning with the Future Leaders Academy (FLA) in 2011. Thirtheen years later, the FLA has cultivated a thriving network of over 250 alumni, creating a robust foundation for Young ESDR and an invaluable resource for emerging scientists.
The ESDR Annual Meeting offers an international platform for early-career researchers to showcase their work, engage in scientific debate, and expand their professional networks. Alongside providing career mentorship and networking, Young ESDR members actively contribute to shaping the strategic direction of skin research, with a strong foundation in immunology, cancer, genetics, and cell biology, while embracing emerging areas such as the microbiome, big data, and artificial intelligence. By bringing fresh perspectives and bold ideas, Young ESDR encourages innovation and challenges existing models of skin disease to advance new translational approaches for patient care.
Aiming to bridge the gap between research and public understanding, Young ESDR is passionate about making dermatological science accessible and engaging. Through active social media outreach and initiatives like SkinChronicles – a monthly digest of groundbreaking research written by early-career scientists – Young ESDR strives to bring the latest in skin science to a global audience, enhancing public engagement, patient impact, and the visibility of dermatology research.
Young ESDR envisions a future where young leaders in dermatological science thrive, working together to elevate and transform the field. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, Young ESDR promotes international collaboration, training opportunities, and a positive influence within the scientific community, ensuring dermatology continues to evolve for generations to come.
From left to right: Chris Callewaert, Clarisse Ganier, Tiago R. Matos, and Beatrice Dyring-Andersen at the Future Leaders Symposium during the 54th Annual ESDR Meeting 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal, marking the launch of Young ESDR.
Is a scientist born or made?
This fundamental question opens the lecture of the first article published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology on behalf of the Young ESDR: Engaging and Nurturing the Next-Generation Skin Research Community by Clarisse GANIER, Chris Callewaert, Tiago R. Matos, Enikö Sonkoly, Beatrice Dyring-Andersen, and Neil Rajan.
The Young ESDR aims at representing the new generation of skin researchers and was officially announced at the ESDR Annual Meeting 4-7 September 2024 in Lisbon.
