Applications now open for the 2026 Open Academy Schools

The Open Academy School on Medicines Research & Development and the Open Academy School on Scientific Innovation & Translational Research will take place in Barcelona from 25 to 28 May 2026. Applications are now open and will close on 17 October 2025.

Running in parallel, the two Schools will combine area-specific sessions with joint discussions on cross-cutting themes such as patient engagement and leadership. Together, they offer patient advocates a unique opportunity to strengthen their knowledge, build new skills and connect with others across the rare disease community.

Why take part?
The Open Academy Schools are not just training programmes, they are transformative experiences that equip you with the tools and confidence to make a real impact. By joining, you will:

💡Learn from leading experts in research, regulation, industry, and patient communities;

💻Benefit from a blended learning approach that combines eLearning, webinars, and in-person training;

🤝Build lasting connections with fellow advocates and researchers;

🌐Join a network of more than 800 alumni who are already driving change at national and European levels. 

As one 2025 participant put it:

“It has made a big difference for me to participate. I have gained both a fantastic professional network and especially knowledge that I am looking forward to taking with me in my work for Rare Diagnoses Denmark.”

We are excited to welcome a new cohort to Barcelona and to see the new ideas and collaborations that will emerge. If you have any questions or would like more information, please do not hesitate to get in touch.