From Protocol to Publication: A Practical Course in Clinical Research

From Protocol to Publication: A Practical Course in Clinical Research



Course Leadership:
Luca Bertolaccini, IT
Isabelle Schmitt-Opitz, DE/CH
 
The From Protocol to Publication: A Practical Course in Clinical Research is an exclusive in-person training event designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world research practice.
 
This advanced course is reserved exclusively for the 10 members of the ESO College who achieve the highest scores in the learning tests of the two online courses:
 
Over two intensive days in Inveruno (Milan), participants will engage in a series of highly interactive sessions led by expert faculty. Through hands-on workshops, critical discussions, and peer-review simulations, attendees will gain practical experience in every phase of clinical research—from protocol design and data analysis to publication strategies.
 
Each session encourages active participation and collaboration, providing a unique opportunity for researchers to refine their skills, exchange ideas, and receive direct feedback from experienced mentors.
17/03/2026 08:45

Welcome


17/03/2026 09:00

Workshop: Developing a research protocol based on real clinical cases

Luca Bertolaccini (IT) Massimo Di Maio (IT) Dario Gregori (IT) Kleida Mati (AL) Isabelle Opitz (CH)

17/03/2026 10:30

Coffee break


17/03/2026 11:00

Critical Analysis: Discuss published studies with an in-depth review of the methods used

Luca Bertolaccini (IT)

17/03/2026 12:30

Lunch


17/03/2026 13:30

Hands-on Statistical Training: Practical exercises using statistical software

Dario Gregori (IT)

17/03/2026 15:00

Coffee break


17/03/2026 15:30

Data Analysis: Examination of clinical datasets and interpretation of statistical results

Massimo Di Maio (IT)

17/03/2026 17:00

End of the day

18/03/2026 08:30

Peer Review Simulation: Evaluation of research articles with a structured review process

Kleida Mati (AL)

18/03/2026 10:00

Coffee break


18/03/2026 10:30

Publication Strategies: Discussion on journal selection, submission processes, and responding to reviewer comments

Isabelle Opitz (CH)

18/03/2026 12:00

Lunch


18/03/2026 13:00

Interactive Presentation: Preparation and presentation of a study protocol with structured feedback

Luca Bertolaccini (IT) Massimo Di Maio (IT) Dario Gregori (IT) Kleida Mati (AL) Isabelle Opitz (CH)

18/03/2026 14:00

Final Conclusions and Wrap-Up: Summary of key learning points and Q&A session

Luca Bertolaccini (IT) Massimo Di Maio (IT) Dario Gregori (IT) Kleida Mati (AL) Isabelle Opitz (CH)

18/03/2026 14:30

End of the course

Dario Gregori profile photo
Dario Gregori

University of Padoa, Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Padova, IT

Isabelle Opitz profile photo
Isabelle Opitz

University Hospital Zurich, Dept. of Thoracic Surgery, Zurich, CH

Kleida Mati profile photo
Kleida Mati

American Hospital, Oncology Dept., Tirane, AL

Luca Bertolaccini profile photo
Luca Bertolaccini

IEO - European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Thoracic Surgery Dpt., Milan, IT

Massimo Di Maio profile photo
Massimo Di Maio

University of Turin, Director of Medical Unit, Turin, IT

Complete both online courses listed above by 11 January 2026. To qualify for this opportunity, you must successfully complete the learning tests and evaluations for each course. The 10 ESO College members with the highest scores across both courses will be selected. 
 
The registration grants you:
 
  • Free registration
  • Accommodation
  • Meals according to the programme

It does not cover travel costs and extra expenses, these should be organized and paid by the participant. Accompanying persons will not be accepted.


Contacts - Organising Secretariat 

Alice Ciocchini - aciocchini@eso.net