We are happy to announce that the annual NVMO JON Day (Young Researchers Network Day, formerly PhD Day) will take place on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Utrecht. This year’s theme is ‘Hidden Curriculum’.
In addition to young researchers and PhD candidates, (co-)supervisors are warmly invited to join us for an inspiring day filled with workshops, lectures, a mock defense, and sessions to present and discuss your research. The working language of the event will be English.

Registration is now open! Deadline for registration is January 9, 2026.
Please complete the registration form to sign up and read more about what this year’s JON Day has to offer Registration JON day 2026: Learn to read between the lines
Participants will receive the full programme shortly before the Christmas holidays.

Marijke Sterman Award
We would also like to draw your special attention to the Marijke Sterman Award. This annual award honors a PhD candidate or young researcher who embodies the values that Marijke stood for; someone who is:
• engaged with the wider community beyond their own research,
• altruistic and supportive of colleagues in medical education, or
• a connecting link between people, both within and outside research.
Do you know a colleague who perfectly fits this description? Nominate them by sending a short description explaining why they deserve the award to the committee before December 1, 2026.

Mock Defense
As in previous years, we will organize a mock defense. Would you like the opportunity to practice defending your thesis or to gain experience as an opponent? Indicate your interest to participate in the mock defense in the registration form.

Warm regards, and we look forward to see you in January 2026!

The JON Day Committee
Seher Sayin, Danique Versluis, Anna Isahakyan, Alexandra Androni, Merel de Heer-Koster, Bo van Leeuwen

P.S. Feel free to forward this email to other interested researchers and PhD candidates — spread the word!