From Protocol to Publication: A Practical Course in Clinical Research
12 ESCO credits
17.03.2026 - 18.03.2026
Inveruno (Milan), Italy
WORKSHOP
Description
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:
- Writing Methodology Course: How to Produce High-Quality Research Papers
- Basics of Clinical Research and Biostatistics
Over two intensive days in 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.
Programme
17 March | ||
| 8:45 | Welcome | |
| 9:00 | 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 | |
| 10:30 | Coffee break | |
| 11:00 | Critical Analysis: Discuss published studies with an in-depth review of the methods used Luca Bertolaccini, IT | |
| 12:30 | Lunch | |
| 13:30 | Hands-on Statistical Training: Practical exercises using statistical software Dario Gregori, IT | |
| 15:00 | Coffee break | |
| 15:30 | Data Analysis: Examination of clinical datasets and interpretation of statistical results Massimo Di Maio, IT | |
| 17:00 | End of the day | |
18 March | ||
| 8:30 | Peer Review Simulation: Evaluation of research articles with a structured review process Kleida Mati, AL | |
| 10:00 | Coffee break | |
| 10:30 | Publication Strategies: Discussion on journal selection, submission processes, and responding to reviewer comments Isabelle Opitz, CH | |
| 12:00 | Lunch | |
| 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 | |
| 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 | |
| 14:30 | End of the course | |
Faculty
Luca Bertolaccini, IEO - European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Thoracic Surgery Dpt., Milan, IT
Massimo Di Maio, University of Turin, Director of Medical Unit, Turin, IT
Dario Gregori, University of Padoa, Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Padova, IT
Kleida Mati, American Hospital, Oncology Dept., Tirane, AL
Isabelle Opitz, University Hospital Zurich, Dept. of Thoracic Surgery, Zurich, CH
Application
How to apply
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.