by Ilaria Butta – Events & Training Manager, LS Academy
The 15th edition of the European Statistical Forum (ESForum) took place on 27-28 October 2025 in the beautiful city of Bergamo, gathering experts from across Europe and beyond to explore the theme “Advancing Clinical Trials: Master Protocols for Faster Drug Development.”
This year’s event marked a significant milestone in the ESForum’s history, combining high-level scientific discussions with meaningful networking and a touch of Italian culture.
Exploring the Future of Clinical Trials
The conference focused on Master Protocols, an innovative approach in clinical research that integrates multiple hypotheses, sub-studies, and treatments within a single overarching trial. By enhancing efficiency and statistical power, these designs enable faster, more flexible responses to emerging evidence—an essential step forward for modern drug development.
Over two dynamic days, participants explored innovative approaches such as master protocols, platform, basket, and umbrella trials, all aimed at making drug development faster and more efficient. Among the highlights was the interactive quiz session, a refreshing and entertaining way to reinforce key concepts while engaging with peers in real time. This lively competition successfully combined learning and entertainment, and culminated in the announcement of a winner – providing a fitting close to an inspiring, knowledge-rich conference.
Expert Contributions and Inspiring Sessions
The two-day scientific program featured distinguished speakers from leading pharmaceutical companies, regulatory institutions, and academic organizations, including:
- Christine Fletcher – GSK
- Benjamin Hofner – Paul-Ehrlich-Institut (PEI)
- Haiyan Zheng – University of Bath
- Luke Ouma – AstraZeneca
- Ruchi Upmanyu – F. Hoffmann-La Roche
- Tobias Mielke – J&J
- Karin Meiser – Novartis
- Tom Parke – Berry Consultants
- Kyle Whaten – Cytel
Their insights provided attendees with a deeper understanding of how master protocols are transforming the clinical research landscape – offering new opportunities for innovation while highlighting the importance of rigorous statistical methodologies.
Science, Networking, and a Taste of Bergamo
As in previous years, ESForum 2025 proved to be a hub for collaboration and exchange among statisticians, data scientists, and clinical researchers, alongside its scientific sessions. Participants took part in interactive discussions and networking events that fostered stronger connections across the pharmaceutical and CRO industries.
The experience was rounded off by a guided tour of Bergamo’s Città Alta (Upper Town) – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – followed by a warm and lively Networking Dinner. This blend of science, culture, and community made the 15th edition of ESForum truly inspiring and unforgettable.
We look forward to welcoming you to the next edition of ESForum, where science, collaboration, and culture once again come together to shape the future of clinical research.