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Published on 11 December 2025

Young EPIZONE

Are you a young scientist and interested to meet and interact with other young scientists from all over Europe, then the Young EPIZONE meeting will be interesting for you.

The Young Epizone group at the IVI
Contact: Marta Zimoch and Nedim Kozarac

Registration

Register here: online registration (early registration is open until 31 July)

What's included in your registration fee?

Admission to all sessions (plenary and scientific parallel sessions) Access to scientific poster sessions Catering at conference venue (welcome apéro, coffee breaks and lunches) Gala Dinner on the Gurten (hill with viewpoint above Bern)

If you book accomodation in a hotel in Bern, you will receive the Bern Mobile Card (guest card) that allows you to use Bern's public transport system free of charge, including public transport to the EPIZONE venue.

Further Informations

Abtract submission (deadline 15th of June) Hotel reservation Venue and location Young Epizone Overview

Programm Morning Session - September 2nd 2026

08:30 – 08:40 | Opening & Introduction
Nedim Kozarac – PhD Candidate IVI Switzerland & YE Meeting Coordinator 2026

Welcome address, overview of the program, and information on signing up for seated lunches with keynote speakers.
08:40 – 09:00 | Introduction to the Young EPIZONE Network
Killian de Geest – PhD Candidate Sciensano Belgium & YE Coordinator

An introduction to the Young EPIZONE network: what it is, its goals, and how to get involved.

09:00 – 10:00 | “Career Reality Check” – Interactive Panel & Live Polling

Moderated by Mattia Bütikofer

What comes after your PhD? This interactive session brings together professionals from diverse career paths to share honest insights and experiences.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with panelists and ask questions such as:

  • What was your biggest mistake after your PhD?
  • What would you do if academia disappeared tomorrow?

Additional panelists will be announced in August.

10:00 – 10:30 | Coffee Break 

10:30 – 12:00 | Social Media Workshop
Led by Mattia Bütikofer - Advisor for Social Media Strategies and Processes, Eventmoderator, LinkedIn- and Networking Trainer
Learn how to effectively communicate your research, build your professional presence, and expand your network - both online and offline.
This interactive workshop will cover:
– Communicating science clearly to broader audiences
– Promoting your work on social media
– Strategic networking techniques

Additional Activities

Seated Lunch with Keynote Speakers
Participants will have the opportunity to join a seated lunch with keynote speakers. Once the full program is announced, attendees can select their preferred speaker and register during the Young EPIZONE session.

EPIZONE Table Soccer Tournament

Join us for a friendly tournament running throughout the annual meeting.
  • Sign-up: Wednesday morning (during the Young EPIZONE session) or Wednesday afternoon
  • Teams: Open to both senior and young EPIZONE members
  • Prize: Sponsored by IDVet

Winners will be announced alongside the talk and poster awards.
A QR code for registration will be available shortly before the meeting.