As 2024 draws to an end, the SYNnet team has been busy forging new partnerships and strengthening existing collaborations in the field of chemical risk management. These efforts have centred on creating synergies with external projects, research initiatives, and key stakeholders, all in a bid to enhance chemical safety worldwide. Here's a look back at some of the major highlights from SYNnet’s successful year.

2nd SYNnet Forum: Highlighting PARC's Impact 

In late September, the 2nd SYNnet Forum took centre stage during the European Environmental Mutagenesis and Genomics Society (EEMGS) ↗ conference. The event was a showcase for seven PARC partners, who presented their latest findings across a range of topics—from human biomonitoring and environmental monitoring to innovative risk assessment methods and advancements in chemical regulation. The in-person session sparked new interest, with several external initiatives reaching out post-event to explore collaboration opportunities. This enthusiasm highlights the power of face-to-face interactions in expanding PARC’s network and advancing chemical safety research.

2nd SYNnet Online Workshop: Fostering Collaboration Across Initiatives 

November saw SYNnet hosted its second online workshop, bringing together researchers and stakeholders from across Europe. This interactive session focused on strengthening ties between PARC and other EU-funded projects, with discussions on collaboration opportunities with the ENKORE ↗and Green Deal clusters ↗. The session, moderated by Sónia Namorado ↗ and Nikiforos Alygizakis ↗, included engaging discussions that identified several potential synergies between these initiatives and PARC.

PARC and NORMAN: A Formal Partnership 

In December, SYNnet celebrated a significant milestone with the formalisation of a collaboration between PARC and the NORMAN Association ↗. During the NORMAN General Assembly in Rome, Pascal Sanders ↗, PARC Coordinator, outlined the shared goals and future initiatives under this new partnership. NORMAN’s network of reference laboratories and research centers focuses on monitoring emerging contaminants, making it a perfect match for PARC’s mission. This agreement paves the way for joint initiatives, including interlaboratory studies, data sharing, and the development of priority-setting tools. 

Join the SYNnet Network 

SYNnet continues to grow and evolve, and there’s plenty of room for more voices in this important conversation. If you’re interested in becoming part of the network and contributing to the future of chemical risk management, we invite you to fill out the interest form. Together, we can make a difference in advancing chemical safety and promoting healthier environments for all.