Join the ESGCT ECR Board – Apply by 15 May 2026

The European Society of Gene and Cell Therapy (ESGCT) is now accepting applications for its next ECR Board Member. The deadline is 15 May 2026, so now is the time to act. As a board member, you will sit alongside ten leading researchers in gene and cell therapy. Furthermore, you will contribute directly to how ESGCT supports its student and postdoctoral community.

The ECR Board Member serves in an ex-officio capacity. This means you participate in board meetings and shape decisions, though without voting rights. The term runs for two years, with a six-month handover period at the end.
In practice, the role requires roughly two hours per week. Additionally, you will attend and contribute to the Annual Congress and Spring School.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Reviewing and suggesting membership benefits for ECR members
• Proposing and helping implement activities for young investigators
• Engaging ECR groups across labs and institutions worldwide
• Contributing to ESGCT's social media presence and content strategy
• Managing onsite social media at the Annual Congress and Spring School

The benefits are substantial. You receive complimentary ESGCT membership for your full two-year term. In addition, attendance at both the Annual Congress and Spring School is fully covered, including travel and accommodation. You also gain access to the LUMINA association management team for full operational support.

ECR Community Initiatives

The ECR Board runs several established programmes. These include Expert Connect, a networking initiative that pairs early-career researchers with Principal Investigators during ESGCT congresses, as well as the annual 3 Minute Thesis Contest and Quick Takes, a short-form video series capturing ECR voices at ESGCT events. Together, these create meaningful opportunities for early-career researchers in cell and gene therapy to connect, grow, and be heard.

To apply, you must be a PhD student or post-doc within the first five years after your PhD, without tenure or permanent academic appointment. Your line manager or PI must support your application. Strong English language skills are required. Experience with social media is an advantage. Previous attendance at ESGCT events, particularly the Spring School, significantly strengthens your candidacy.
How to ApplySend the following to ecrs@esgct.eu, with office@esgct.eu in copy:

• Letter of intent with CV
• Letter of recommendation from your line manager or PI
• An outline of ideas to engage the ECR community
• An outline of relevant experience in similar roles
• Certificates of attendance at previous ESGCT events (optional, but a plus)

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview.
Apply before 15 May 2026. Full details are available on the ESGCT website.