title: Learn from the best.
abstract: What is more inspiring than a discussion with the leading scientists in your field? As a student or a young researcher, you have likely been influenced by mentors guiding you in your career and leading you to your current position. Any discussion with or advice from an expert is certainly very helpful for young people. But how often do we have the opportunity to meet experts? Do we make the most out of these situations? Meetings organized for young scientists are a great opportunity not only for the attendees: they are an opportunity for experts to meet bright students and learn from them in return. In this article, we introduce several successful events organized by Regional Student Groups all around the world, bridging the gap between experts and young scientists. We highlight how rewarding it is for all participants: young researchers, experts, and organizers. We then discuss the various benefits and emphasize the importance of organizing and attending such meetings. As a young researcher, seeking mentorship and additional skills training is a crucial step in career development. Keep in mind that one day, you may be an inspiring mentor, too.
authors.affiliation: Next Generation Sequencing Platform - ICGex, Curie Institute, Paris, France.
authors.forename: Virginie
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Bernard
authors.affiliation: Computomics Molecular Data Analysis, Tuebingen, Germany.
authors.forename: Sebastian J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Schultheiss
authors.affiliation: Computational Cancer Biology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
authors.forename: Magali
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Michaut
mesh_terms: D004496:Education, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D008611:Mentors; D049490:Systems Biology / Q000193:education*