Welcome to our first lab retreat!

From the 8th to the 10th of April 2025, the TEBLab team, together with two collaborators from Bayreuth University – Dr. Manuel Steinbauer and Franka Gaiser (PhD student) – headed to La Garrotxa for a much-needed lab retreat.

La Garrotxa, in the heart of Catalonia, is known for its stunning volcanic landscape, with over 40 ancient cones and lava flows surrounded by lush forests combined with patchworks of farmland . It was the perfect backdrop for a few days of science and inspiration.

During this short but very productive retreat, we focused on the next steps of our ongoing research, joining forces to move forward with a very exciting project. We also took time to share our individual research projects with one another, creating space for constructive feedback, new ideas, and fresh perspectives.

But of course, it wasn’t all about work! We also made time to relax, explore the charming town of Olot, enjoy some delicious local food, play board games and hike to the Santa Margarida and Croscat volcanoes (nothing like discussing macroecology while sitting in a volcanic crater!).

As we say in Catalan, com més serem, més riurem—"the more we are, the more we will laugh"—and this retreat truly proved that right. We returned recharged, motivated, and grateful for the good company, inspiring conversations, and the chance to enjoy nature together.

Author

Judit Rodrigo, Technician