Author: Fco. Javier Molina Estévez

2025 GeneHumdi YRI Grant call

GENE-HUMDI YRI CONFERENCE GRANT CALL 2025

The COST Action CA21113, GeneHumdi: Genome editing for the treatment of human disease, is opening a new call for the Young Researcher and Innovator (YRI) Conference Grant. The grant’s purpose is to support young researchers in presenting their work at high-level, third-party conferences, increasing their visibility and networking opportunities within the scientific community.
In our mission to bound together basic and applied scientist with health regulators and caregivers we are offering 2 YRI to help promote GeneHumdi YRI at the Homology-Directed Repair (HDR) Workshop that will be held in Seville on October 6, 2025.

The YRI Conference Grant is a fixed financial contribution to assist a Young Researcher and Innovator (under 40) in attending and presenting their research at a conference that is not organized or co-organized by the COST Action: This YRI Conference Grant aims to support participation in the Homology-Directed Repair (HDR) Workshop that will be held in Seville on October 6, 2025. Organized by renowned leaders in the Genome editing field and strategically scheduled prior to the European Gene and Cell Therapy Meeting.

Gene editing based on homology-directed repair (HDR) remains one of the most versatile ways to edit the human genome.

This workshop will provide an overview of the current state of the HDR field, setting the stage for in-depth discussions on how to advance and optimize HDR technologies across all nuclease platforms.

Attendees will gain insights into recent progress in enhancing HDR efficiency, determining editing specificity, applying HDR in diverse cell types, and the workshop will also present the latest clinical data on HDR-edited cells. Join us to explore where the field stands today and collaboratively identify new strategies to drive HDR technology forward.

HDR Workshop Organizers:

  • Matthew Porteus, Stanford University, Stanford, USA
  • José Carlos Segovia Sanz, CIEMAT-CIBERER/IIS-FJD, Madrid, Spain
  • David Rawlings, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
  • Paula Cannon, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
  • Ayal Hendel, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
  • Justin Eyquem, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
  • Alessia Cavazza, University College London, London, UK
  • Rasmus Bak, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
Objectives and Eligibility

This grant is for a Young Researcher and Innovator (YRI), defined as someone under the age of 40, or turning 40 in 2025. The grant will provide a fixed financial contribution to support attendance at the Homology-Directed Repair Workshop in Seville on October 6, 2025.

What you need to qualify:

  • Be a Young Researcher and Innovator (under 40 or turning 40 in 2025).
  • Have an accepted or submitted abstract for an oral or poster presentation at the HDR Workshop.
  • Be eligible to receive funds from COST. (Not be receiving double funding for their participation.)
  • Be an active member of the GeneHumdi community.(enroll now if haven’t)

What we offer:

  • A fixed grant of 1000 € to assist with expenses related to attending and presenting at the Homology-Directed Repair Workshop. (The amount granted will be determined during the evaluation process.)

Other Considerations:

  • Applicants must be asked to submit a scientific summary report after the conference.
  • Applicants must be asked to complete COST reimbursement forms timely after the conference.
Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed by the GeneHumdi Grant Coordinator. Priority will be given to:

  • Active COST Members: Applicants with a short endorsement letter from their Working Group leader will be given priority.
  • New Members: Applicants who have not previously received funding from GeneHumdi will be shortlisted. If the number of grants exceeds the number of shortlisted applicants, all applicants will be considered.
How to Apply

1.  Fill out and submit the application form (SEE BELOW).

2.  Send the completed form to the GeneHumdi Grant Holder Manager, raquel.soriano@juntadeandalucia.es.

3.  Ensure your application is received before the deadline of August 18, 2025: New application deadline August 28!!

Grantees will be contacted early September. Upon selection, grantees will have 5 days to accept the grant. If a selected applicant declines, the next person on the ranked list will be offered the grant.

After the Workshop

Our COST Action budget needs to be justified before November each year. To ensure a prompt reimbursement grant recipients must submit the following documentation to the Grant Holder Manager within 30 days of the conference, and prior to end of October, 2025:

For questions, please contact the GeneHumdi Grant Holder Manager: raquel.soriano@juntadeandalucia.es.

Some reference documents:

Application Form

2025-YRI_GenEHumDiRegistrationFormDownload

Learn more about GeneHumdi and its mission in our MOU

Learn more about COST and YRI eligibility in COST Guidelines

Learn more about the HDR Workshop and the ESGCT annual Meeting in Seville.

YRI GeneHumdi 2025 Guidelines

2025_YRI_call_HDR_guilinesv2Download
https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA21113

2025 Freiburg Training School

Joint GenE-HumDi COST Action and Medical Center – University of Freiburg Training School

Impact of GE delivery tools on target cells

September 9-11 2025 @ Center for Translational Cell Research (ZTZ). Breisacherstr. 115 – 79106 Freiburg – Germany

Applications and funding opportunities.

GenEHumDi courses are open to all EU members and Near Neighbour Countries, with a focus on promoting participation of Inclusiveness Target Countries.
All selected attendees will be enrolled in the course free of charge. However, the number of seats is limited to ensure interaction among trainers and trainees.
Additionally, a call is opened to provide funding for selected participants, to cover Travel costs and Daily Allowances, in accordance with the COST guidelines  https://www.cost.eu/uploads/2024/11/COST-094-21-V2.0-Annotated-Rules-for-COST-Actions-Level-C.pdf

Important dates:
Applications should be submitted before June 27th
Admitted trainees will be contacted starting on June 30th to July 4th.

Local Organizers

Dr. Claudio Mussolino & Dr. Maria Silvia Roman Azcona

Trainers

Dr Claudio Mussolino (Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany)
Dr Duško Lainšček (National Institute of Chemistry, Slovenia)
Dr. Manuel Goncalves (Leiden University Medical Center, The Netherlands)
Dr. Hildegard Büning (Hannover Medical School, Germany),
Dr. Irina Nazarenko (Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Germany), Dr. Marcello Maresca (AstraZeneca, Sweden)

ProGRAM OutlINA
Tuesday, September 9th

Introduction to different delivery platforms

  • Welcome & openings
  • Delivery LNP – Duško Lainšček
  • Large capacity vectors – Manuel Goncalves
  • Extracellular Vesicles – Irina Nazarenko
  • AAVs – Hildegard Büning

Hands-on Laboratory Session

Wednesday, September 10

Tools for genome editing and safety issues

  • Openings
  • Genome editing tools – Claudio Mussolino
  • Alternative Cas9 protein – Marcello Maresca
  • Base editing and safety – Manuel Rhiel
  • Epigenome editing – Maria Silvia Roman Azcona

Hands-on Laboratory session

Thursday, September 11

Off-targeting issues

  • Openings
  • Discussion of lab activities
  • Off targeting in genome editing – Carla Fuster
  • Wrap-up + feedback survey
  • Training School Adjourn

FULL PROGRAM AND INSTRUCTIONS

Updated 2025/08
Final Program available!

PROGRAM_COST_Training_School_Freiburg_def20250827Download

To Apply, fill in the registration form below and send it to our Grant Holder Manager Raquel Martinez Soriano (raquel.soriano@juntadeandalucia.es)

2025-Freiburg_Training_School_GenEHumDiRegistrationFormDownload

We´ll meet in Freiburg !

2025 Modena Summer School

Co-organised GenE-HumDi COST Action 21113 and UNIMORE Summer School

GENE EDITING: FROM TOOLS TO THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

June 18-20 2025 @ TECNOPOLO UNIMORE. Via Pietro Vivarelli, 2 – 41125 Modena, Italy

Applications and funding opportunities.

GenEHumDi courses are open to all EU members and Near Neighbour Countries, with a focus on promoting participation of Inclusiveness Target Countries.
All selected attendees will be enrolled in the course free of charge. However, the number of seats is limited to ensure interaction among trainers and trainees.
Additionally, a call is opened to provide funding for selected participants, to cover Travel costs and Daily Allowances, in accordance with the COST guidelines  https://www.cost.eu/uploads/2024/11/COST-094-21-V2.0-Annotated-Rules-for-COST-Actions-Level-C.pdf

Important dates:

Applications should be submitted before May 10th.
Admitted trainees will be contacted starting on May 18th.

Local Organizers

Prof Laura De Rosa, Prof Alessandra Recchia, Prof Alessia Cavazza

Trainers

Dr Claudio Mussolino (University of Freiburg, Germany), Dr Giandomenico Turchiano (AstraZeneca, UK), Dr Antonio Carusillo (Alia Therapeutics, Italy), Prof Alessia Cavazza (UNIMORE, Italy; University College London, UK; Gene-HumDi COST Action co-chair)

Short Program
WEDNESDAY 18 JUNE 14:00-17:30

Session 1: Genome Engineering for Human Therapies
Session 2: Genome Engineering Tools

THURSDAY 19 JUNE 9:30-17:30

Session 3: Delivery of genome editing components
Session 4: Safety & Therapy design
Practical session: design of GE tools
Discussion on gene editing approaches

FRIDAY 20 JUNE 9:30-13:00

Session 5: Clinical Application of Gene Editing
Practical session, cont..

FULL PROGRAM AND INSTRUCTIONS

Updated Program

2025ModenaSumerSchool_GenEHumDi-final_programDownload

To Apply, fill in the registration form below and send it to our Grant Holder Manager Raquel Martinez Soriano (raquel.soriano@juntadeandalucia.es)

2025ModenaSummerSchool_GenEHumDiRegistrationFormDownload

We´ll meet in Modena!

SECOND 2025 GeneHumdi Call for Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSMs)

Our Second 2025 Call for applications for Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSMs) funded by the COST Action CA21113 “Genome Editing to Treat Humans Diseases” (GenE-Humdi) CA21113 is opening March 2025.

Why do we encourage Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSM) within the framework of the GeneHumdi COST Action?

The board of GeneHumdi is pleased to announce the availability of Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSMs) through the COST Action program and encourages researchers to apply. These missions offer researchers the opportunity to conduct short visits to research institutions or laboratories in other COST countries, with the aim of strengthening existing networks and fostering collaboration. STSMs also provide researchers with the chance to learn new techniques or use equipment, data, and/or methods that may not be available in their own institution, while contributing to the scientific objectives of the Action. We strongly urge interested researchers to take advantage of this unique opportunity to expand their scientific knowledge and contribute to the advancement of their respective fields.

Participants in the COST Action program’s Short Term Scientific Missions (STSMs) have a great opportunity to focus their work on research topics that have been highlighted by GenE-Humdi’s 8 Working Groups (WGs) or to introduce new ideas that address the objectives of the project. We encourage researchers to take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their scientific knowledge and contribute to the advancement of their respective fields. (Details on the content and goals of WGs is available in the Action’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Guidelines for applicants:
  • Individuals are supported financially with travel grants for four Short Term Scientific Missions (STSMs) offered by GenE-Humdi. Grantees are responsible for making their own arrangements for travel, accommodation, and other logistics.
  • STSMs must be completed within the 3rd Grant Period of the Action, which ends in October 2025. While there is no maximum duration for visits, the minimum visit should be at least 5 days, including travel time.
  • The deadline for submitting applications is April 30th, 2025.
  • During this period, STSM grants are awarded up to a maximum of 2,000€. Applicants are encouraged to review the Annotated Rules for COST Actions.
  • The STSM travel grants are open to researchers and innovators who are associated with a legal entity in a COST Full/Cooperative Member, Near Neighbour Country, or European RTD. While all eligible candidates are welcomed, young researchers and innovators under the age of 40 are particularly encouraged to participate.
Application instructions:
  1. To apply for an STSM, applicants must utilize the e-COST management tool. It is mandatory for all applicants to possess an e-COST profile.
  2. To apply for an STSM, the applicant must utilize the e-COST management tool to submit their request. Along with the necessary information provided on the website, applicants are required to upload specific documents in a single PDF file:
  • A brief CV that highlights recent publications.
  • The STSM proposal outlining the research objectives and methodology.
  • The requested budget in euros.
  • A confirmation letter from the host institution.
  • Applicants who require further information on the submission process via the e-COST system can refer to the Grant Awarding User Guide.
  • After completing the STSM, the recipient must submit a brief report outlining the results of their visit. The report must be submitted no later than 30 days following the end date of the STSM, or 15 days after the end of the Grant Period, whichever comes first. It is important to note that if the report is not submitted on time, the grant will be revoked. Once the report has been approved, the grant payment is expected to be processed within 30 days.
Evaluation of applications:

The GeneHumdi Grant Awarding committee will assess each proposal individually and provide an evaluation score based on several factors. These factors include:

  1. The clarity of the proposal.
  2. The degree to which the proposed STSM complements or contributes to the strategic priorities and objectives of the Action as defined in the MoU.
  3. The feasibility of the planned work plan and outputs, and the ability of the STSM applicant to successfully complete the proposed STSM and disseminate relevant outputs.
  4. Members who apply for the first time, and members who did not enjoy STSM previously take priority over past STSM grantees.

It is important that the proposal clearly demonstrates how the proposed STSM will benefit both the applicant and the Action.

The proposal will be categorized based on its evaluation score, within 5 categories:

  1. Poor: (0-25): The proposal will be considered poor if it is unsound, incomprehensive, and lacks clear links to any of the WGs
  2. Fair: (26-50): A proposal with limited understanding, unclear objectives, and weak linkage to at least one Working Group
  3. Good: (51-75): A proposal is one that is well-linked to at least one WG and needs input to develop feasible STSM
  4. Excellent: (76-100): well-thought-out plan with clear feasibility and expected outcomes. It is highly relevant to at least one of the WGs

The top four proposals with the highest scores will be awarded the STSM grants.

Topics

Funded STSM must align with at least one (or more) of the following topics :

2025 Updated Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSM): Preferential Topics

  • 1.    Specificity and Off-Target Prediction in Genome Editing Tools
    • Comparative studies on the specificity of various genome editing tools and advanced methods for off-target prediction and validation.
  • 2.    Omics Studies in Genome Editing
    • Research involving transcriptomics, proteomics, and related omics technologies to explore genome editing mechanisms and effects.
  • 3.    Regulatory Considerations for Human Genome Editing
    • Examination of regulatory frameworks and guidelines, focusing primarily on clinical applications of genome editing.
  • 4.    Clinical Applications of Genome Editing
    • Investigations into the use of genome editing technologies in clinical settings, including therapeutic approaches and translational studies.
  • 5.    Scientific and Medical Assemblies at the EU Commission
    • Participation in assemblies or meetings focused on genome editing within the framework of the European Commission.
  • 6.    Industry Challenges and Regulatory Issues, Including Patent Applications
    • Exploration of challenges in industry, regulatory compliance, and intellectual property protection related to genome editing.
Question and inquiries:

Please contact GeneHumdi:

2025_STSM-GeneHumdi_OpenCall_20250330Download

GeneHumdi 2025 | updated April 1st

CRISPRMED25 WORKSHOP CALL

🌟 Call for attendees to the CRISPRMED25 Workshops! 🌟

Dear GenE-HumDi Members,

We support early career and young researchers in the field of therapeutic Gene Editing. For this reason, we are very excited to announce that we will be supporting selected young members attending the CRISPRMED25 Conference and enrolled in the CRISPRMED25 Workshops, co-organized by GenE-HumDi (COST action CA21113) and CRISPR MEDICINE NEWS (CRISPRMED). as part of the CRISPRMED25 Conference.

📌 Workshop Topics:

  • CRIPRMED25 Workshops:
    • Tools: Choosing the Right Gene-Editing Approach
    • Delivery: Navigating the CRISPR Delivery Landscape
    • Safety: Pre-Clinical Safety Analyses

💶 Financial Aid Includes:

  • Long-distance travel support to/from the venue*
  • Daily allowance for the workshop*

*Long-distance travel expenses up to 500.00€ and daily allowance will be reimbursed according to the approved budget and will abide by COST rules and regulations.

📝 How to Apply:
Interested attendees must apply soon:

  1. Send an email to the Grant Holder Manager (raquel.soriano@juntadeandalucia.es) indicating the state of your application for the workshop and providing your chosen topic.
  2. Include in the email a letter of interest, of no more than 1,000 words addressed to the Grant Award Coordinator. Please include:
    • A contact e-mail address if different from your COST contact.
    • Your current position
    • Whether you are an active member in any GeneHumdi WG
    • List your contributions to GeneHumdi initiatives (meetings, white papers, peer-reviewed papers, etc, …)
    • How does your work/research/interest align with the workshop topics?
    • How attending will benefit their current position or future perspectives?

📅 Deadline: March 27th
Applications must be submitted by this date to allow the resolution of grants before April. Active young members will be given priority, and applicants shortlisted by the Grant Award Coordinator will be notified shortly after.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and network with experts in the field!

For questions or to submit your application, contact the Grant Holder Manager at raquel.soriano@juntadeandalucia.es.

We look forward to your applications!

Best regards,
The GenE-HumDi Team

ICLE 2025 and GeneHumdi

ICLE 2025 and COST action GeneHumdi promoting the Future of Lymphocyte Engineering.

22nd February 2025,
Munich, Germany

The 5th International Conference on Lymphocyte Engineering (ICLE) just offered a thriving experience last week, 20th to 22nd February 2025, in Munich, Germany. This pivotal event brought together leading experts in the fields of gene therapy, cell therapy, and immune therapy to explore cutting-edge advancements in lymphocyte engineering. With a focus on innovative technologies such as genome editing, advanced vectorology, and precision protein design, ICLE 2025 addressed critical challenges in treating cancer, autoimmune disorders, infectious diseases, and immune deficiencies. The conference featured keynote speeches by renowned pioneers, including Dr Drew Weissman, Dr Carl June, and Dr Stan Riddell, offering unparalleled insights into the future of medical progress.

We are proud to highlight the participation of Daniela Benati from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy, who was invited to present our COST Action CA21113: Genome Editing for the Treatment of Human Disease Network (GenE-HumDi). Her talk, delivered on Friday, 21st February, showcased the transformative potential of genome editing in addressing unmet medical needs. The success of the network to capacitate genome editing professionals across research, innovation, clinical development, and healthcare. Daniela’s presentation underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing precision gene medicine, emphasizing the role of multidisciplinary networks in driving innovation and showcasing the growth, engagement, and accumulated results of the COST action.

The creation of networks like GenE-HumDi is crucial for the advancement of multidisciplinary therapies, particularly in the field of genome editing. By fostering collaboration among academia, industry, clinicians, and regulatory experts, these networks accelerate the translation of groundbreaking research into clinical applications. Genome editing, with its potential to precisely target and modify genetic material, represents a paradigm shift in treating diseases that currently lack effective therapies. Such networks not only facilitate knowledge exchange but also address shared challenges, ensuring that scientific discoveries are translated into safe and effective treatments for patients worldwide.

We are proud of the synergistic interaction with ICLE 2025 that provided our COST action an excellent audience to broadcast our network and facilitated our members a great opportunity to engage in a cutting-edge scientific forum to advance our shared mission. From Gene-Humdi we are looking forward to further endorsing ICLE’s mission to broadcast the advances in genome editing and the urge to invest in the clinical translation of genome editing technologies in the field of lymphocyte medicine.

GenE-HumDi (COST Action CA21113) is a prime example of such a collaborative effort. Comprising academia and industry scientists, translational researchers, clinicians, regulatory agents, and industry partners, GenE-HumDi is dedicated to improving and translating gene editing protocols for diseases with limited treatment options. The network focuses on enhancing the safety, precision, and efficacy of therapeutic interventions, paving the way for the next generation of precision gene medicine. Through initiatives like GenE-HumDi, the scientific community is taking significant strides toward revolutionizing healthcare and improving patient outcomes.

2025 Course: Optimizing Gene Editing with Advanced Omics: Safety, Off-Target detection, and cell phenotyping

11-14 of March 2025
GENYO Center, Granada (Spain) Update 2025.03.11
Presentation

The Genome Editing to Treat Human Diseases (GenE-HumDi) COST Action (CA21113), chaired by Dr. Karim Benabdellah (Genyo, Spain) and co-chaired by Dr. Alessia Cavazza (UCL, UK), is pleased to announce the next practical training course in its series of genome editing (GE) initiatives.

This training course reflects the commitment of the GenE-HumDi network to foster emerging European scientists in the gene editing field and advance its mission of establishing and sharing gene editing standards to support clinical translation.

Over four days (March 11–14, 2025), leading experts in gene editing and omics technologies will provide participants with theoretical foundations and practical skills for designing, evaluating, and improving genome editing protocols. Attendees will explore the integration of advanced omics tools, including transcriptomics and single-cell analysis, with a specific focus on refining CAR-T therapeutic applications.

The course is planned as a small, face-to-face group format to ensure excellence in training and to nurture international networking among participants.

Topic of the course

The course will cover a range of essential topics aimed at advancing participants’ understanding and skills in gene editing. The course will introduce the integration of omics technologies, including transcriptomics, single-cell analysis, and cytometry, in gene editing protocols, with a focus on improving safety, specificity, and efficiency. Participants will learn methods for assessing off-target effects and enhancing the precision of gene editing tools. The course will delve into the use of single-cell platforms, such as the Mission Bio Tapestri® platform, to perform high-resolution analysis of genome stability, zygosity, and chromosomal translocations. It will also explore advanced applications in CAR-T therapies, with an emphasis on optimizing gene editing in CD4+ and CD8+ subpopulations and understanding the roles of specific subpopulation such as TSCM and TCM cells.

Hands-on workshops will provide practical experience in designing and evaluating Cas9 guide RNAs for therapeutic purposes, while bioinformatics tools will be employed to analyze and interpret data. A guided visit to a GMP-certified facility will offer insights into clinical-grade production processes for gene editing tools. Throughout the course, participants will have ample opportunities for networking and collaboration with experts in the field.

FINAL PROGRAM UPDATED 2025.03.11)

We have worked very hard to make this training school’s GeneHumdi course our best yet. We are very proud of the final program that we can finally share.

TS-Granada_Program PRINTDownload
Audience

This course is aimed at enhancing the skills of students and early career scientists, with a focus on gene editing technologies. Participants will benefit from hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge in areas such as CRISPR-Cas9, cell culture techniques, omics technologies (e.g., transcriptomics, cytometry), and CAR-T therapies. Previous exposure to gene editing, basic molecular biology, and omics tools will be beneficial, although not mandatory. The course also offers opportunities for personal growth and international networking, helping attendees advance their expertise in a collaborative environment.

Funding Availability

To foster excellence and international networking, GenE-HumDi will select 30 participants to attend the practical course in Granada.

Additionally, a call will be opened to provide funding for up to 14 selected participants, to cover Travel cost and Daily Allowances, in accordance with the COST guidelines  https://www.cost.eu/uploads/2024/11/COST-094-21-V2.0-Annotated-Rules-for-COST-Actions-Level-C.pdf

Travelling

The course will be held in Granada, Spain on March 11th-14th 2025 at the Pfizer-University of Granada-Junta de Andalucía Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research (GENyO). Granada has its own airport located within minutes of the Historic Alhambra Castle, the city center, and the health and technology park where GENyO is located. Granada is close to major travel hubs such as Málaga or Madrid, allowing easy travel to the city by various means of transport: bus, taxi, car, train, and/or high-speed train.

Registration  

If you are interested in attending the training school, please fill out the attached registration form. Don’t hesitate to apply for funding. Be sure to apply early and avoid leaving it to the last minute. The deadline for registration is January 31st.

Registration Form_TrainingSchool_Granada v3Download
Support

For Further details visit www.genehumdi.eu  or contact the Action Grant Holder Manager Raquel Soriano, raquel.soriano@juntadeandalucia.es

To follow updates and announces by GenE-HumDI find us on:
 Instagram: @genehumdi
Twitter: @genehumdi
and join our group pages in  Facebook and  LinkedIn

Your data will be used for candidate selection purposes only. By applying you acknowledge these terms. Signing below implies that you accept terms and conditions.

Other Contact Points:

2025_GeneHumdi-TS_Granada_v3Download

2025 GeneHumdi Call for Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSMs)

This is the 2025 Call for applications for Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSMs) funded by the COST Action CA21113 “Genome Editing to Treat Humans Diseases” (GenE-Humdi) CA21113 is opening January 2025.

Why do we encourage Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSM) within the framework of the GeneHumdi COST Action?

The board of GeneHumdi is pleased to announce the availability of Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSMs) through the COST Action program and encourages researchers to apply. These missions offer researchers the opportunity to conduct short visits to research institutions or laboratories in other COST countries, with the aim of strengthening existing networks and fostering collaboration. STSMs also provide researchers with the chance to learn new techniques or use equipment, data, and/or methods that may not be available in their own institution, while contributing to the scientific objectives of the Action. We strongly urge interested researchers to take advantage of this unique opportunity to expand their scientific knowledge and contribute to the advancement of their respective fields.

Participants in the COST Action program’s Short Term Scientific Missions (STSMs) have a great opportunity to focus their work on research topics that have been highlighted by GenE-Humdi’s 8 Working Groups (WGs) or to introduce new ideas that address the objectives of the project. We encourage researchers to take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their scientific knowledge and contribute to the advancement of their respective fields. (Details on the content and goals of WGs is available in the Action’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Guidelines for applicants:
  • Individuals are supported financially with travel grants for four Short Term Scientific Missions (STSMs) offered by GenE-Humdi. Grantees are responsible for making their own arrangements for travel, accommodation, and other logistics.
  • STSMs must be completed within the 3rd Grant Period of the Action, which ends in October 2025. While there is no maximum duration for visits, the minimum visit should be at least 5 days, including travel time.
  • The deadline for submitting applications is January 31th, 2025.
  • During this period, STSM grants are awarded up to a maximum of 2,000€. Applicants are encouraged to review the Annotated Rules for COST Actions.
  • The STSM travel grants are open to researchers and innovators who are associated with a legal entity in a COST Full/Cooperative Member, Near Neighbour Country, or European RTD. While all eligible candidates are welcomed, young researchers and innovators under the age of 40 are particularly encouraged to participate.
Application instructions:
  1. To apply for an STSM, applicants must utilize the e-COST management tool. It is mandatory for all applicants to possess an e-COST profile.
  2. To apply for an STSM, the applicant must utilize the e-COST management tool to submit their request. Along with the necessary information provided on the website, applicants are required to upload specific documents in a single PDF file:
  • A brief CV that highlights recent publications.
  • The STSM proposal outlining the research objectives and methodology.
  • The requested budget in euros.
  • A confirmation letter from the host institution.
  • Applicants who require further information on the submission process via the e-COST system can refer to the Grant Awarding User Guide.
  • After completing the STSM, the recipient must submit a brief report outlining the results of their visit. The report must be submitted no later than 30 days following the end date of the STSM, or 15 days after the end of the Grant Period, whichever comes first. It is important to note that if the report is not submitted on time, the grant will be revoked. Once the report has been approved, the grant payment is expected to be processed within 30 days.
Evaluation of applications:

The GeneHumdi Grant Awarding committee will assess each proposal individually and provide an evaluation score based on several factors. These factors include:

  1. The clarity of the proposal.
  2. The degree to which the proposed STSM complements or contributes to the strategic priorities and objectives of the Action as defined in the MoU.
  3. The feasibility of the planned work plan and outputs, and the ability of the STSM applicant to successfully complete the proposed STSM and disseminate relevant outputs.
  4. Members who apply for the first time, and members who did not enjoy STSM previously take priority over past STSM grantees.

It is important that the proposal clearly demonstrates how the proposed STSM will benefit both the applicant and the Action.

The proposal will be categorized based on its evaluation score, within 5 categories:

  1. Poor: (0-25): The proposal will be considered poor if it is unsound, incomprehensive, and lacks clear links to any of the WGs
  2. Fair: (26-50): A proposal with limited understanding, unclear objectives, and weak linkage to at least one Working Group
  3. Good: (51-75): A proposal is one that is well-linked to at least one WG and needs input to develop feasible STSM
  4. Excellent: (76-100): well-thought-out plan with clear feasibility and expected outcomes. It is highly relevant to at least one of the WGs

The top four proposals with the highest scores will be awarded the STSM grants.

Topics

Funded STSM must align with at least one (or more) of the following topics :

2025 Updated Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSM): Preferential Topics

  • 1.    Specificity and Off-Target Prediction in Genome Editing Tools
    • Comparative studies on the specificity of various genome editing tools and advanced methods for off-target prediction and validation.
  • 2.    Omics Studies in Genome Editing
    • Research involving transcriptomics, proteomics, and related omics technologies to explore genome editing mechanisms and effects.
  • 3.    Regulatory Considerations for Human Genome Editing
    • Examination of regulatory frameworks and guidelines, focusing primarily on clinical applications of genome editing.
  • 4.    Clinical Applications of Genome Editing
    • Investigations into the use of genome editing technologies in clinical settings, including therapeutic approaches and translational studies.
  • 5.    Scientific and Medical Assemblies at the EU Commission
    • Participation in assemblies or meetings focused on genome editing within the framework of the European Commission.
  • 6.    Industry Challenges and Regulatory Issues, Including Patent Applications
    • Exploration of challenges in industry, regulatory compliance, and intellectual property protection related to genome editing.
Question and inquiries:

Please contact GeneHumdi:

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GenE-HumDi Second Period in perspective

2023-2024 period has been fruitful with many steeps and networking connections getting us closer to our objectives. This reports are just proof!

Two years ago, COST Action CA21113 was given green light and we started this adventure of seeking for members willing to help us build an European network aiming to make Genome Editing for the treatment of Human Disease a reality.

We have now reach half of the action’s lifespan and is a great moment to reflect on the achievements and contribution of the academic and industry researchers, Advance Medicine technicians and engineers, Healthcare professionals, Scientific Divulgators, Regulatory and patient advocacy groups.

We are very proud of the hard work of volunteers, and the commitment of young talent to help GeneHumdi initiatives.

Today we wanted to compile some of the recent achievements in this post entry, to pay tribute to the good work of the volunteer members. During this 2 years we had to rethink our structure and embrace in a single WG the interest of industry a regulatory actors, leaving the action with the following structure:

  • WG2 – Improvement of GE technology
  • WG3 – Delivery Strategies
  • WG4 – Safety issues: Monitoring and standardization
  • WG5 – Translation into the clinic
  • WG6 – Technology transfer and industry / Regulatory issues
  • WG7 – Dissemination

This structure is helping both advancing within the focused scope of the WG and also nurturing collaborative works that materialized the following COST Action achievements:

Genome Editing tools Reference Document

WG2 – Improvement of GE technology, led by Rasmus O. Bak presented the network with a reference document with an overview of Genome Editing tools and members’ interests within our COST action network

Reference WG2 Document including efficacy, specificity and catalogue of producers of the available endonucleases independent GE tools.

WG2_GenomeEditing_RefDocDownload
GeneHumdi consensual hand-book on cells types where further improvements are required to achieve efficient and specific GE.

This has been expanded to the realization of actual Training Schools to instruct younger scientist and future industry leaders into the use of genome editing tools

Ljubljana 2024 TS Report.

TS_2024_Lubjiana_GE-DEliveryDownload

Aarhus University 2024 TS Report

TS_2024_Aarhus_GE_ClinicalApplications-GEInVivoDownload
Standardized procedure protocols for the determination of off-target for experimental use in preclinical and clinical studies

Fruit of interactions between members from different Working Group members, GenE-HumDi COST action is nourishing collaborative works, and the Scientific articles produced by Members are Proof:

Granada 2024 TS

TS_2023_Granada_GEtools-Desing-n-OffTargetsDownload

Summary of the SEcond Period General Meeting held in Limassol , Cypryus

During our second general meeting we engaged EU genome editing leaders in Limassol in a collaborative meeting . This Meeting was instrumental for the materialization of collaborations that are yielding scientific revision on genome editing and to promote the capabilities of young researchers in our network.

GeneHumdi second year General Meeting contents.

GeneHumdi2024_Limassol-GeneralMeetingDownload
Guidelines and reflections concerning regulatory aspects of new gene editing tools

Technology transfer, industry and regulatory issues working group, leaded by Carsten Lederer, have recently shared a great reference document elaborated by WG6 members. The Full text is openly available.

WG6 – Technology transfer and industry / Regulatory issues Reference Document.

WG6_RegulatoryAspectsNewGeneEditingTools_Guideline_RefDocDownload
Strategic Dissemination Plan

Originally drafted by the action SCC, Fco. Javier Molina, and former WG7 leader, Luís Montoliu. And approved by MC members, the plan describes the methods and protocols for the liaison between networks members, working groups and external stakeholders.

GeneHumdi Dissemination Plan

science_communication_plan-CA21113Download
Booklet summarizing all the main conference of each WG during the half-life of the action

This a great moment in the Actions life to reckon on the progress of the network activity. We have elaborated a proceeding booklet summarizing all the main conference of each WG during the half life of the action. This detailed summary of the WG records is helping us to learn from the many successes achieved and identify areas that will need further attention in the upcoming years of the network

GeneHumdi Half life report

GeneHumdi_2024_HalfLife_ReportDownload

Summary of state of the art concerns and opportunities for Genome Editing in the Medical Field.

During our Kick-off Meeting we manage to gather European leaders. Our call is still open to all different gears involved in the research, translation, experimental medical application, medical approval and healthcare access and patient advocacy. But our scope is fixed in making Genome editing technologies an actual medical option.

GeneHumdi Kick-off meeting contents.

GeneHumdi2023-Granada-KickOffMeetingDownload
FINAL PROGRAM

Updated on 2024.10.09
Dr. Karim Benabdellah
Dr. Fco Javier Molina Estevez
GHM: Raquel Soriano e mail: raquel.soriano@juntadeandalucia.es

Coupling Genome Editing Tools with Delivery Systems

GenE-HumDi Workshop in Barcelona, 3-4 October 2024

UPDATE 23/09/2024:
FINAL PROGRAM AVAILABLE!
Registration for students, early career Scientist and Young Professionals is open. Secure your seat today: Showcase your research and network with field leaders: Poster a short-talk opportunities !

Genome editing tools and their delivery systems are advancing quickly, but they rely on each other to improve genome editing methods. This meeting will showcase the latest developments in both areas and foster connections and collaborations among scientists to boost the effectiveness of their research projects.

This is open event organized by Genome Editing for the treatment of Human Disease ( GeneHumdi| COST action 21113). A network committed to foster therapeutic genome editing therapeutic by nourishing collaborative networks and promoting early career scientist and industry engagement with the field. In this Workshop we will:

  • 1. Identify and evaluate the existing endonuclease-independent platforms (EIP) and their potential uses in various applications.
  • 2. Identify and evaluate the existing endonuclease-dependent platforms and their potential uses in various applications.
  • 3. Create a comprehensive overview of the current delivery methods used for genome editing (GE) in various cell types for clinical applications.
  • 4. Create a comprehensive overview of the current delivery methods used for in vivo genome editing (GE) in different animal models and clinical environments

This workshop is made possible thanks to a collaboration of GenE-Humdi and IDIBELL. We are thrilled to announce that several field leaders are now confirmed speakers:

  • Dr. Marc Güell (Pompeu Fabra University, Spain)
  • Dr. Vittoria. Raffa (Associate Professor in Molecular Biology, Ph.D. in Nanotechnology, M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, Italy)
  • Dr.  Giedrius Gasiunas (Caszyme, Lithuania)
  • Dr. Peng Ling (Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience de Marseille, France)
  • Dr. Julian Cerón Madrigal (Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge, Spain)
  • Dr. Karen O´Hanlon Cohrt (CRISPR Medicine News, Denmark)
  • Dr. Alessia Cavazza (UCL, UK)
  • Dr. Fco Javier Molina Estévez (GENyO, Spain)
  • Dr. Laura Batlle Morera (CRG, Barcelona)
  • Dr. Benabdellah Karim (GENyO, Spain)
  • Dr. Gloria Gonzalez Aseguinolaza (DNA & RNA Medicine Division, Gene Therapy for Rare Diseases Department, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, IdisNA, Spain).
  • Dr. Cecilia Jiménez-Mallebrera (Neuromuscular Unit. Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Deu. Hospital Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona, Spain).
  • Dr. Mariana Köber (Biomedical Research Network on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Spain)
  • Dr. Carles J. Ciudad (Universitat de Barcelona, Spain)
  • Dr. Jan Gorodkin (Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Center for non-coding RNA in Technology and Health, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.).

Venue:
Residencia de Investigadores del CSIC

Carrer de l’Hospital, 64, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona


Two Days Packed with Science:
Thursday October 3rd ( 2:00 pm to 8 pm ) and Friday October 4th (9:00 am to 15 pm), 2024.

Free attendance:
Registration is needed as space is limited to maximize networking. Signature control will be required and assistance certificates will be available upon request.

To register as attendee or presenter, fill the form and send it to GeneHumdi Grant Holder Manager (raquel.soriano@juntadeandalucia.es)Before September 15th!

APPLICATION FORM BARCELONA OCT 2024Download
FINAL PROGRAM
COSTworkshopPROGRAMbarcelona_final3Download

Organizing committee and contacts:
Dr. Julian Cerón Madrigal
Dr. Francisco Martin Molina
Dr. Karim Benabdellah
Dr. Fco Javier Molina Estevez
GHM: Raquel Soriano e mail: raquel.soriano@juntadeandalucia.es