30th EASD Scientists Training Course

Organised by the EASD, the 30th EASD Scientific Training Course was held in Leicester, United Kingdom, from 27th to 31st October 2024. This event provided an excellent opportunity for young researchers in the field of diabetology to connect with leading global experts and authors of key European and international guidelines and research on diabetes and obesity.

A group of 15 young researchers were invited to the event and had the opportunity to work closely with an excellent faculty. During the course, which covered all critical and current topics in diabetology and obesity, we gained new skills in designing clinical trials, developing critical thinking, and generating innovative ideas for future research. In addition to the rich scientific programme, we as young researchers from many backgrounds and nationalities, had an ideal opportunity to socially interact with the experts and each other.

A short reflection day by day:

Pre-course: We received a warm welcome from the faculty and course organisers. An ice-breaker activity helped the team bond and get acquainted with one another. This was followed by a delicious, authentic Indian meal - one of Leicester’s specialities. A fantastic start to an inspiring course!

Day 1: The event opened with a session on trial designs, discussing their alignment with specific research questions and drawing insights from the UK Biobank and registry studies. Challenges and strategies for managing large datasets were explored, including the importance of appropriate software and budgeting for data scientists, particularly in grant applications. Group exercises provided a practical application of these principles.

A session on diabetes technology followed, focusing on CGM data, the role of carb counting, and mental health in managing glucose curves. Practical tools, such as the “CHIEF” framework, were introduced to simplify glycaemic control for patients: Check glucose levels, assess insulin needs before eating and Inject, Eat within 15-20 minutes and enjoy the meal, and Forget, i.e. no need to think about the diabetes until the next mealtime.

Metabolic experimental setups, including mixed meal tests and clamping, were also reviewed to provide a translational approach to performing research. We learned about the potential of using real-world evidence and the designs and strategies of epidemiological research.

Leadership and professional growth took center stage in the afternoon, with insights from Melanie Davies and Claire Meek, who shared career lessons on resilience, team support, work-life balance, and balancing kindness with professionalism. The day ended with a cultural tour of the King Richard III Visitor Centre and a group dinner with the faculty.

Day 2: On the second day, we kicked off with a dynamic workshop on physical activity and dietary practices, putting the emphasis on the "work(out)!" The session introduced us to physical activity research methodologies used at the Leicester Diabetes Centre, focussing on the 24-hour physical activity behaviours concept for type 2 diabetes, the five S’s of behaviour and the critical role of nutrition. It also sparked plenty of ideas for future research in the field.

In the afternoon, we visited Glenfield Hospital for a fascinating session on muscle physiology, sarcopenia, and imaging. We donned our lab coats to prepare muscle tissue slides and followed their journey through advanced imaging techniques and data interpretation. The session highlighted the clinical and diagnostic challenges posed by sarcopenia and its dangers. The day wrapped up with two inspiring poster presentations from the centre’s talented PhD candidates.

We had the evening free to experience some more of the city, including the Diwali lights — a nice combination of networking and socialising.

Day 3: The final day began with a session on diabetes in pregnancy, where we explored the role of technology and nutrition in managing pregestational and gestational diabetes to improve outcomes. Presentations addressed dietary strategies benefiting maternal and foetal health, sparking lively discussions on the challenges and opportunities in pregnancy-focused diabetes care. We worked in groups to design clinical studies targeting specific aspects of diabetes management in pregnancy, gaining valuable insights into the grant application process with guidance from experienced researchers.

A session on managing multiple long-term conditions emphasised the need for a patient-centred approach and highlighted the importance of diversity in clinical trials. This reinforced the future of diabetes care as multifactorial, inclusive, and personalised. Strategies for improving inclusivity - such as community engagement, overcoming language barriers, and partnering with local leaders - left us feeling inspired and empowered as part of the diabetes research community. 

The event concluded with a dinner, where we shared our key takeaways and enjoyed informal yet inspiring conversations with faculty members.