We have had a busy few weeks on the SIMPPER_MedDev ITN. Eleven of the twelve ESRs finally got to meet in person on the UCD campus for an intense 2 weeks of training with one ESR joining remotely (due to visa delays). 

Training week 1 (25th – 29th April 2022) consisted of lectures, seminars and workshops on Polymer Micro/Nano Moulding and forming. 

Training week 2 (3rd – 6th May 2022) consisted of lectures, seminars, discussions and workshops on Medical Device Design. During the two weeks, the ESRs were also given group assignments which they worked on together to develop a suggested solution and to present to the supervisors. It was a tough but productive two weeks for the ESRs.

But it was not all work, the ESRs also had time to explore Ireland over the Public Holiday weekend (albeit exploring in the rain) and to develop new friendships which we hope will help them through their PhDs and the SIMPPER_MedDev ITN project.

The two week training ended with a visit from our Project Officer, Riccardo Ricci. The ESRs were in a position to present their work to date and future plans as well as the opportunity of a private discussion with Riccardo about the MSCA ITN programme. We are looking forward to working closely with Riccardo and the European Commission over the coming years of this fantastic project.