We caught up with Mounia Benbelkacem, a PhD researcher at the Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene (USTHB) in Algiers, Algeria, to hear about her experience as an EACR member.
What I love most is the energy, openness, and support within this global network.
On the EACR community and networking:
“Being part of the EACR community has been an incredible experience! Connecting with researchers from all over the world who are equally passionate about advancing cancer research is truly inspiring. I have made new friends, exchanged exciting ideas, and discovered amazing opportunities for collaboration that I never imagined.”
“What I love most is the energy, openness, and support within this global network. As a researcher coming from outside Europe, feeling welcomed and fully included has been incredibly motivating. The EACR reminds me every day that science is strongest when we work together across borders, share knowledge, and support each other. I am thrilled and proud to be part of such a vibrant, international community!”
On attending the EACR Annual Congress:
Mounia has presented at two EACR Annual Congresses so far! In 2024, she attended Rotterdam on a travel grant and presented her research findings – her first time doing so at this level. In 2025, she was back again, this time in Lisbon, presenting as a PhD student.
“It was an outstanding scientific and networking experience that significantly contributed to my development as a cancer researcher,” she said of Rotterdam. “In 2025, I again presented my work at the Annual Congress in Lisbon as a PhD student. The quality of the scientific sessions, the accessibility of leading researchers, and the supportive atmosphere for early-career scientists were truly exceptional. I learned a great deal, built valuable collaborations, and gained confidence in communicating my research internationally.”
Her take on EACR’s value for early-career researchers more broadly: “EACR provides not only high-level science but also meaningful opportunities for young investigators. It has deeply played an important role in my academic growth, and I would strongly encourage colleagues and trainees to become members.”
How congress feedback fed into a published paper:
Mounia shares that the discussions she had in Rotterdam directly shaped a manuscript she submitted shortly after, and it ended up published in a well-renowned journal.
“In Rotterdam, receiving a travel grant allowed me to present my work and engage in meaningful discussions with experts in my field. The feedback and scientific exchange significantly increased my confidence. Shortly after the congress, I submitted a manuscript that was later published in a journal with an impact factor of 8.2. I truly believe the clarity, motivation, and confidence I gained from EACR contributed to that achievement.”
We asked her what specifically helped her through these various research stages:
“The feedback I received during the conferences, especially through poster discussions and informal exchanges, was extremely valuable. It helped me refine the way I present my research, clarify certain aspects of my methodology, and think more critically about the broader impact of my work. Some of the suggestions I received directly contributed to improving my manuscript before submission, both in terms of structure and scientific depth.”
“In terms of activities, I particularly benefited from the poster sessions, keynote lectures, and networking opportunities. The accessibility of experienced researchers made a big difference, being able to discuss ideas openly and receive constructive feedback strengthened both my confidence and my research direction. These interactions not only improved my current project but also helped me shape future research questions and potential collaborations.
Support as a researcher from a low-income country:
Mounia was candid about what EACR’s travel grants and reduced membership fees have meant for her specifically, given the funding landscape in Algeria:
“As I’m coming from a low-income country where research funding opportunities are limited, EACR’s support mechanisms, including travel grants and discounted membership renewal (which I appreciated a lot and still forever grateful to EACR) have had a profound impact on my ability to remain connected to the international scientific community.”
“Being able to renew my membership at a reduced rate means a great deal to me and genuinely encourages my continued engagement and participation. Beyond the scientific excellence, EACR fosters an inclusive and supportive environment where early-career researchers feel valued.”
For me, EACR is not just a professional society, it is a community that actively supports growth, resilience, and global collaboration in cancer research.
What’s next?
Mounia says she’s planning to keep attending EACR events: “I am definitely planning to attend future EACR conferences and remain actively involved in the community. I am particularly looking forward to upcoming Annual Congresses and other EACR events, as they have been instrumental in both my scientific and personal development.”
Interested in EACR Conferences and Travel Grant opportunities?
We organise a variety of excellent cancer research conferences, both in person and virtual, where the latest research topics and interaction for participants are the very highest priorities.
To assist researchers who need financial assistance to attend our in-person conferences, we offer EACR-Worldwide Cancer Research Travel Grants. Recipients also get the opportunity to present their work as an oral or poster presentation. Each Travel Grant includes a free registration and funds to support travel and accommodation costs.
Make sure you add the dates of upcoming EACR Conferences to your diary now. Don’t forget we offer EACR member discounts on all of our registration fees!
