Eurolife Short-Term Exchange: Leiden Researcher Reports from Medical University of Innsbruck

In March–April 2025, Dr. Vera Kemp, a senior postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, visited the ViroImmunoTherapy lab of Dr. Guido Wollmann at the Medical University of Innsbruck. Her visit was supported by a Eurolife PhD & Postdoc Mobility and Knowledge Exchange grant.

During the exchange, Dr. Kemp collaborated on a project investigating immunogenic cell death (ICD) induced by oncolytic viruses—an innovative approach to cancer immunotherapy that aims to overcome tumor immune evasion. The research focused on tumor models treated with oncolytic reovirus or vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), measuring ICD hallmarks such as DAMP release, membrane permeability, and immune-stimulatory protein signatures. Co-culture assays with bone marrow-derived dendritic cells further explored downstream immune activation.

Working closely with local PhD student Andreas Aufschnaiter, Dr. Kemp gained hands-on experience with well-established ICD models and assays, as well as access to unique VSV variants with enhanced immunogenic properties. The exchange not only deepened her expertise in virotherapy but also facilitated the sharing of research materials, including viruses, tumor models, and antibodies.

The visit marked the beginning of a promising collaboration between the two research groups, with plans for future joint projects and continued knowledge exchange. The partnership is expected to strengthen ongoing research efforts in cancer immunology across the Eurolife network.