Keynote speakers
Speakers that have already accepted to participate
The EUROCARB 2019 symposium in Leiden brought together the European carbohydrate community for a week of intensive scientific exchange, with keynote and plenary lectures highlighting the most exciting developments across this diverse field. Among the standout presentations was the second keynote lecture in the second session, which focused on structural and mechanistic studies of eukaryotic oligosaccharyltransferase. This enzyme plays a central role in the N-glycosylation of secretory proteins within the endoplasmic reticulum, a process fundamental to protein folding, quality control, and cellular function. Attendees gained valuable insight into how advanced structural biology techniques are illuminating the molecular choreography behind this essential post-translational modification.
The study of oligosaccharyltransferase exemplifies the interdisciplinary nature of modern glycobiology, bridging structural biology, enzymology, and cell biology. By revealing how this membrane-embedded complex recognizes its glycoprotein substrates and catalyzes the transfer of pre-assembled glycan precursors onto asparagine residues, researchers are deepening our understanding of a pathway that impacts nearly every secreted and membrane-bound protein in eukaryotic cells. The EUROCARB audience, composed of established investigators and emerging researchers alike, engaged with these findings through thoughtful questions and lively discussion, reflecting the collaborative spirit that defines this biennial gathering of the European carbohydrate research community.
Beyond the keynote presentations, the EUROCARB 2019 programme featured contributed talks, poster sessions, and flash oral presentations that showcased the breadth of carbohydrate science, from synthetic methodology to medicinal chemistry and chemical biology. The meeting also hosted dedicated workshops and sessions for early-career researchers, including the European Carbohydrate Young Researchers activities, which provided a platform for PhD students and postdoctoral scientists to present their work and build professional networks. This emphasis on nurturing the next generation of glycoscientists was a hallmark of the congress, with volunteers and senior researchers alike contributing to a supportive and collegial atmosphere throughout the week.
The venue in Leiden provided an inspiring backdrop for the congress, with its historic architecture and vibrant academic culture complementing the scientific programme. Participants appreciated the well-organized logistics, from registration and abstract handling to the social events that punctuated the week, including the conference dinner and dance. The organizing committee, working in close partnership with the professional congress team, ensured that everything ran smoothly, allowing attendees to focus on the science and the many informal conversations that so often spark new collaborations. The city's charm, combined with the warmth of the local hosts, made for a memorable and productive meeting.
EUROCARB 2019 was made possible through the generous support of sponsors and partners who share a commitment to advancing carbohydrate chemistry and glycobiology. Their contributions enabled travel support for young researchers, subsidized participation, and the delivery of a high-quality scientific and social programme. As the congress drew to a close, participants left with new knowledge, strengthened connections, and a sense of anticipation for the next edition of this important European series. The success of EUROCARB 2019 underscored the vitality of the carbohydrate field and the value of bringing together researchers from across the continent and beyond to share discoveries, celebrate achievements, and chart the future of glycoscience.
