BSGCT Travel Award winner 2024 – Alicia Teijeira Crespo

The travel award I received from the BSGCT gave me the opportunity to attend the two-day BSGCT conference held in Oxford. This event not only allowed me to learn about other researchers work  in the field of gene and cell therapy, but also gave me the chance to engage with like-minded researchers who share the same passion for advancing this area of science. Despite being a relatively short conference, the event brought together a wide range of international researchers, who were willing to share their research.

This conference was particularly significant for me, as it marked the final opportunity to present my PhD project, having submitted my thesis just a few months earlier. Being able to showcase the research I had developed over the past few years felt like the perfect way to close an important chapter of my academic journey and prepare for the next. For this occasion, I chose to present my work in a poster format, which proved to be a fantastic decision, as it allowed for more personal, one-to-one discussions with fellow researchers who were interested in specific aspects of my project. I am also extremely proud to have been awarded the BSGCT Poster Presentation Prize, which not only served as a meaningful recognition of my work but also included a cash prize.

In addition, I attended the conference as a member of the ECDC sub-committee, which provided me with the unique opportunity to co-chair several sessions alongside members of the BSGCT Board. This was the first time I had ever chaired a session, and it was an experience I deeply value. It gave me insight into the responsibilities involved in academic leadership and session moderation. An opportunity I know I wouldn’t have had so early in my career without the support and involvement of BSGCT.

The conference also included an ECR (Early Career Researcher) event, which consisted of a meal at Slug and Lettuce and a guided tour around Oxford. This was a great opportunity to connect with others at the same stage of their careers. The relaxed atmosphere created a space where we could talk not only about science but also about career paths, grant writing, moving abroad, and the general uncertainty of “what comes next.” As someone who is currently navigating that transition, it was incredibly helpful to meet people who are in a similar situation and to hear their perspectives.

Although this was the only official ECR event, there was also a social event open to all attendees of the conference. This allowed us to talk to more senior members of the society, all of whom were approachable, open to conversation, and always willing to offer career or scientific advice.

Overall, this travel award gave me the chance to meet many researchers with whom I could connect not only scientifically, but also on a personal level as a fellow researcher. It gave me the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of gene and cell therapy, gather new ideas not only for research but also for the next steps in my career and build valuable connections. It also gave me the chance to get to know members of the Board and sub-committees, which inspired me to look forward to my future as a postdoc and to aim for a position on the BSGCT Board someday, so I can help encourage others to become part of this vibrant and supportive community.