Shaping the Future of Stroke Research: Highlights from the 12th ESO Edinburgh Stroke Research Workshop (ESRW)

From 1–3 September 2025, early-career researchers from all over the world gathered in Edinburgh for the 12th ESO Stroke Research Workshop. Hosted at the marvellous St Leonard’s Hall of the University of Edinburgh, the event offered an immersive three-day programme blending lectures, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities. The faculty, consisting of highly respected experts and leaders in the field, shared practical tools and fresh perspectives on stroke research. The aim was clear: to equip participants with the skills, confidence, and connections needed to shape impactful future stroke research projects.

Lectures: The lecture programme served as the backbone of the course, guiding participants through every stage of the research process. The programme opened with sessions on how to frame meaningful research questions, choose between observational studies and randomised controlled trials, and set priorities, followed by guidance on publication strategies, research impact, and the role of qualitative methods. Day two turned to practicalities: navigating regulations, critically appraising literature, and presenting data with clarity. Sessions also highlighted the value of statistics and strategies for organising research efficiently. The final day centred on communication and funding, featuring insights from funders, participant presentations, a grant board exercise, and closing reflections on the future of stroke research and researcher wellbeing.

Interactive sessions to develop a research project: Alongside lectures, the heart of the workshop laid in sessions dedicated to building and refining research ideas. Participants were guided step by step, from brainstorming relevant questions to designing studies that are both feasible and impactful. Small group discussions with faculty created a supportive environment where early concepts could be tested, reshaped, and expanded with constructive feedback. The iterative structure of these sessions allowed projects to evolve day by day. Initial drafts were challenged by peers and experts, helping participants to sharpen hypotheses, anticipate obstacles, and think creatively about methodology. The process culminated in short presentations where each participant distilled their proposal into just a few slides – a valuable exercise in clarity and precision.

The simulated grant board meeting was a highlight: reviewing written applications exposed the group to the realities of competition for funding. This session encouraged critical but collegial assessment, providing insight into what makes an application stand out and what risks might raise red flags for reviewers.

One of the most appreciated parts was the speed networking session. In a fast-paced yet supportive setting, participants had the chance to present their project one-on-one, receive immediate feedback, and explore others’ ideas. The format encouraged openness and collaboration, breaking down barriers between researchers at different stages of their careers and from diverse backgrounds.

Networking: Equally central to the workshop was the opportunity to connect with peers and faculty. Informal conversations during coffee and lunch breaks, as well as evening dinners, created a relaxed atmosphere that fostered genuine exchange. Discussions often moved beyond research, touching on personal interests and experiences, making the interactions more memorable and meaningful. Social gatherings helped to strengthen these connections. Sharing a table with colleagues from across the globe built a sense of community that is expected to last well beyond the workshop itself. Many participants left Edinburgh with new contacts, valuable collaborations in sight, and perhaps even friendships that will grow through future ESO events and annual conferences.

In conclusion, the 12th ESO Edinburgh Stroke Research Workshop once again proved to be more than just a course. By blending high-level lectures, hands-on research development, and inspiring networking opportunities, it provided a unique platform to learn, share, and grow as researchers. Participants returned home not only with stronger projects and sharper skills, but also with an expanded network ready to support the next steps in their careers.

Antonio Ciacciarelli¹, Bogdan Cășaru², Lina Palaiodimou³

1. Emergency Department, Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome (Italy)
2. Department of Neurology, Emergency University Hospital Bucharest (Romania)
3. Second Department of Neurology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (Greece)