More than 220 participants gathered in Kraków, Poland, from 14–16 October 2026 for the 5th FEBS-IUBMB-ENABLE Conference, bringing together early-career researchers, established scientists and career-development professionals for three days of scientific exchange, professional development and networking.
Hosted by the Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology at Jagiellonian University, this year’s conference explored “The Code of Life: Beyond the Genome to Multilayer Biology”, highlighting how different layers of biological information contribute to our understanding of complex living systems.
Exploring biology beyond the genome
The two-day scientific symposium featured four thematic sessions: Omics Revolution, Connecting the Dots, Unveiling Biology and Data in Action.
Through keynote lectures and discussions, the programme explored advances in omics technologies, innovative experimental approaches, data integration and the translation of biological information into new insights. Short talks, flash presentations and poster sessions gave young researchers opportunities to present their findings, exchange ideas and engage with scientists from different disciplines.
The third day was dedicated to career development, with a programme designed to help early-career scientists explore opportunities within and beyond academia. Career talks, interactive workshops and a job fair covered topics ranging from scientific publishing and research funding to intellectual property, responsible AI use in research and transferable professional skills. The day also featured a Career Café, a panel discussion and the conference’s closing ceremony.
A conference organised by young scientists
One of the defining features of the FEBS-IUBMB-ENABLE Conference series is that it is organised by and for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. Young scientists take an active role in shaping the scientific programme, coordinating activities and creating opportunities for their peers to connect and develop professionally.
The Kraków edition was the result of more than 18 months of preparation and collaboration between the Scientific and Local Organising Committees.
FEBS extends its sincere thanks to the Scientific Organising Committee, co-chaired by Stefan Marković Hadžić and Gabriela Dziurman, alongside Bartosz Płóciennik, Dominika Lubawska, Fabiola Iommazzo, Federico Borra, Jing Hui Neo, Johanna Helenius, Nikita Nikita and Sanusha Madathil, with the invaluable support of Elisa Frezza (FEBS) and James Murphy (IUBMB).
Special recognition also goes to Agata Kalita, Chair of the Local Organising Committee, and the local PhD students and postdocs whose dedication made the conference possible, including its Career Day and social programme.
We are equally grateful to Guillem Ylla and Prof. Jolanta Jura, Dean of the Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology at Jagiellonian University, for their support and hospitality.
Our thanks also go to our partners IUBMB, IRB Barcelona and SEMM, as well as the speakers, sponsors and participants who contributed to this year’s event.
Looking ahead to Marseille 2027
The FEBS-IUBMB-ENABLE Conference will return for its sixth edition in Marseille, France, on 15–17 November 2027, continuing its mission to connect, support and empower the next generation of molecular life scientists.
