The Lee-Oesterreich Lab held its annual retreat on December 6, 2024, at Zone 28, Freeport Road, Pittsburgh. This retreat was a valuable opportunity for lab members to reflect on past achievements, discuss ongoing projects, and engage in team-building activities in an informal setting.
The day began with coffee and opening remarks from Drs. Steffi Oesterreich and Adrian Lee, setting the tone for a productive and engaging retreat. To kick things off, an icebreaker activity titled “The Name Story” encouraged participants to share the origin and meaning of their names, fostering personal connections within the team.
The morning session featured a comprehensive lab overview, covering key topics such as lab values and expectations outlined in the Lab Handbook, recent publications, ongoing grants and funding prospects, and both internal and external collaborations. These discussions provided lab members with insights into the strategic direction and broader impact of their research.
The retreat welcomed Dr. Ryan Hartmeier, a former graduate student and postdoctoral fellow in the laboratory now Senior Director, Translational Medicine, Oncology R&D at AstraZeneca. Ryan shared insights into his research and career in the pharmaceutical industry, providing valuable networking opportunities for students and lab members interested in industry careers.
A highlight of the retreat was the keynote lecture delivered by Dr. Julia Foldi. She presented a complex brain metastasis case which was a part of the Hope for OTHERS rapid autopsy program, offering a clinician’s perspective on patient treatment options and decision-making processes. Her talk was particularly insightful for lab members, providing them with a better understanding of how their research translates into clinical applications and patient care.
During lunch, the team engaged in discussions on the present and future of organoids as model systems. Daniel Brown provided an update on current progress, followed by a group discussion on challenges, management strategies, and future directions for using organoids in research. The afternoon session included a brainstorming exercise focused on identifying barriers to project efficiency and proposing solutions.
To conclude the day, the team participated in a fun and energetic laser tag session. This team-building exercise allowed everyone to unwind and engage in a friendly competition, reinforcing collaboration and team spirit.
The 2024 Lee-Oesterreich Lab Retreat was a success, offering valuable scientific discussions, professional insights, and team-building experiences that will contribute to the lab’s continued growth and success.