ESH Summer School 2026: From Shared Learning to Future Collaboration
This year’s ESH Summer School in Lunteren, the Netherlands, brought together early-career clinicians, researchers and healthcare professionals from around 38 countries for an intensive week of lectures, interactive learning and exchange. The programme closed with a wrap-up session in which participants reflected on what inspired them and how the week will shape their future work. A post-course survey (41 respondents) complemented these reflections.
A highly rated programme
Participants rated the Summer School very positively across all areas. On a five-point scale, the social and wellbeing programme scored 4.79. The lectures scored 4.69, organizational and practical aspects 4.58, and the overall aspects of the Summer School 4.57. The contribution to learning and professional outcomes was rated 4.32, and the interactive learning activities 4.1. Respondents particularly valued the high-level scientific lectures, direct contact with leading experts, and the chance to present their own research and receive feedback.
An international and interdisciplinary community
The strongest theme, both in the survey and in the wrap-up session, was the value of the people. Participants came from different countries, healthcare systems and disciplines, including clinical medicine, basic science, epidemiology, data science and health policy. Comparing clinical practice across countries showed participants new ways to improve care, reduce inequalities and support underrepresented patient groups. Many were struck by how quickly the group became a close-knit community.
Bringing clinicians and scientists together proved especially meaningful. Basic researchers gained insight into the clinical questions their work can address, and clinicians saw how rigorous research methods can strengthen treatment decisions and guidelines. Several participants described a shift in mindset: they now see their clinical work as a source of research questions.
Growing knowledge, skills and ambition
Case-based discussions helped translate guidelines into real-world decisions. Sessions on research design, funding and proposal writing, including a week-long group project to develop a research proposal, helped participants turn ideas into feasible projects. Some left inspired to pursue a PhD, others with new research directions, and many with renewed confidence and motivation to continue working in hypertension.
Looking ahead: artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence emerged as an important theme for the future. Participants who had initially been hesitant developed a more open and informed view of AI as a tool for research, data analysis, education and clinical practice that complements human expertise rather than replacing it. Curiosity, adaptability and continuous learning were seen as essential as healthcare evolves.
An accessible and dedicated faculty
Participants repeatedly praised the approachability and enthusiasm of the faculty and the smooth organisation of the week. The informal atmosphere encouraged questions, discussion and mentorship, creating a genuine two-way exchange between teachers and learners.
Building on the feedback
Participants also offered constructive suggestions for future editions. These included stricter timekeeping, more breaks and free time in a full programme, more guidance from faculty during group work, and model answers after the case-based assignments. The organising committee will use this feedback to further strengthen the programme.
The beginning of lasting collaboration
The ESH Summer School is not an endpoint but a starting point. Participants were invited to stay connected through ESH membership, with a free first year for eligible participants, and through the Young Investigators Forum. They were also encouraged to turn the ideas and friendships formed during the week into concrete joint projects. As the wrap-up concluded, the future of hypertension research and care is brightest when people from different countries, disciplines and career stages work together with openness, curiosity and passion.
Final Programme ESH Summer School 2026
