How collaboration drives innovation… with Florian Grebien
Collaborations are essential in the world of science. In addition to the exchange of knowledge and technologies, they also offer valuable insights into different cultural and methodological approaches to research. This view is shared by Florian Grebien, Principal Investigator (PI) of the Biology of Pediatric Leukemia Oncoproteins research group at St. Anna CCRI.
In the world of biomedical research, collaboration between specialized research groups is becoming increasingly important. Although different research approaches and technologies can make collaboration challenging, Florian Grebien sees this as an opportunity to find innovative solutions. His team therefore works closely with several groups within the St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute. Their aim is to conduct joint research to identify the molecular mechanisms of hematologic malignancies.
This collaboration between groups is an ideal way for young researchers to build up a network. Weekly research seminars and joint laboratory meetings provide an open atmosphere that encourages exchange and networking between colleagues. In general, Florian Grebien has clear advice for aspiring cancer researchers: “Don’t wait for your PI to introduce you to someone, but actively approach other scientists yourself. Every scientist loves to talk about their research – don’t be shy!”
To what extent do interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange play a role in your research?
Exchange of knowledge is an integral part of our research program. Ever since I started my independent career, I actively engaged in collaborations, and they have always been highly enriching. Collaborations are not only important to exchange reagents, technologies and/or knowledge, but they also provide access and insights into other cultures and strategies of performing research, which can be very interesting. Interdisciplinary collaborations are becoming increasingly important. While I find these types of collaborations particularly interesting, they are also challenging, as researchers from different fields often use very different approaches that are not always easy to integrate.
How has the importance of collaboration changed due to technological advances?
The increasing degree of specialization in biomedical research makes collaborations central and necessary for every original and successful research project. Without them, we would not be able to keep up with the pace at which critical technologies develop, and we need to keep embracing technological advance, as this is a key aspect of biomedical research.
What specific projects or research topics connect you and your research group with other groups within the St. Anna CCRI?
Within St. Anna CCRI, we cooperate very closely with the groups of Davide Seruggia, Kaan Boztug and Michael Dworzak, as we share a common interest in hematological malignancies and their molecular mechanisms. Beyond that, I enjoy discussions with Eleni Tomazou and Heinrich Kovar, as they work on related aspects in a different cancer context. It is interesting to see how researchers in different fields approach similar questions.
What do you value about working with the other groups?
I enjoy that within St. Anna CCRI, every PI shares the dedication and enthusiasm to contribute to a better understanding of pediatric cancer, as this will help to generate better therapies in the future. In addition, the translational/clinical background of some of the St. Anna CCRI groups is a source of inspiration for me to identify novel problems that are worth tackling.
What are your tips for young researchers who are just starting to build a network?
The most important advice I have for young researchers is to actively approach other scientists. Every researcher loves to talk about their work. Do not wait until your PI or somebody else establishes a connection – do it yourself! Do not be shy! At St. Anna CCRI, several opportunities exist to do that, such as the weekly research seminar on Wednesday, or joint lab meetings that are held by different groups. In addition, the building is small, which makes interactions easier.
How would you assess the importance of international collaborations for the success of your research group?
In retrospect, our engagement in international collaborations cannot be overestimated for the success of my research group. Several long-standing interactions, publications, grant applications and other joint activities started from a chat with a stranger during the coffee break at a conference. I would not have been able to achieve the same without these interactions.
Which other national or international research institutes do you work with as part of your research activities?
We entertain many collaborations with other academic institutions in Austria and beyond. In the Vienna area, our most important partners are the Medical University Vienna, the CeMM and the IMP.