On March 13–14, 2025, early-career researchers from across Europe and beyond gathered at the International Spring School for Early-Career Researchers in Life Sciences to explore the theme “Society-Engaged Research in Life Sciences: From Stakeholder Collaboration to Real Impact.”

This free, fully online event offered participants a unique opportunity to delve into the fundamental principles and practical applications of socially engaged research. Through interactive sessions, participants learned how to align their scientific work with societal needs through meaningful stakeholder engagement and how to address real-world challenges.

The program introduced the basic concepts of socially engaged research, including stakeholder expectations, ethical aspects, and practical tools to support its implementation. The highlight of the two-day event was a practical introduction to two key tools from the Academic Bridge toolkit and a workshop dedicated to self-assessment tools. All of these tools were new to most participants and sparked valuable discussion. The event, attended by 39 people, thus promoted a lively exchange of views. The positive energy and engagement during the meeting, together with official positive feedback, confirmed that it was an extremely successful event. The Spring School reinforced the key role of early-career scientists in shaping a more inclusive and collaborative future for the life sciences—a future in which research not only pushes the boundaries of knowledge but also has a real impact.