PEARL-DNA General Assembly held in Bordeaux
The PEARL-DNA consortium met in Bordeaux, France, on 22 to 23 September 2025 for its fifth General Assembly, hosted by project partner Imagene. The meeting brought together 19 participants from six partner organisations for two days of reviews, planning, and on-site learning.
What we set out to do
The agenda focused on the close of year two and preparation for the final year. This phase builds on a positive mid-term review at the end of last year, where EIC reviewers and challenge managers confirmed that the project is on a strong track. Partners shared progress, compared notes on open questions, and aligned priorities to keep delivery moving
During a session at the PEARL-DNA General Assembly
Inside the sessions
- Plenary updates covered scientific and technical work, with discussion time reserved to turn findings into concrete next steps.
- A visit to Imagene’s state-of-the-art industrial platform for DNA encapsulation offered a close look at processes and infrastructure.
- Targeted bilateral meetings helped teams coordinate responsibilities, sequence activities, and remove blockers ahead of year three.
Group photo from the 5th General Assembly of PEARL-DNA
Outcome and next steps
PEARL-DNA began in October 2023. The Bordeaux meeting closed year two and set a clear plan for the final phase of the grant. The positive mid-term review remains our reference point for direction and quality. Partners left Bordeaux with agreed milestones, owners for key tasks, a shared timeline, and an enthusiastic spirit for what’s to come.
