Facing challenges in Proteomics today and in the coming decade: Report of Roundtable Discussions at the 4th EuPA Scientific Meeting, Portugal, Estoril 2010

Roundtable Discussion sessions were conceived for the first time at the 4th Edition of the EuPA Annual Scientific Meeting that took place in Estoril, Portugal, from the 23rd to 27th of October, 2010. Under the theme “2010: a proteomics odyssey towards the next decades”, young and senior scientists had the opportunity to discuss particular issues of different proteomic areas s distributed by eleven luncheon roundtables moderated by recognized experts in the field. During two hours, the roundtable discussions proceeded in a friendly environment, in which the participants (about 8–10 per roundtable) were encouraged to ask questions and express their opinions without restraint (Fig. 1). The topics covered a range of recurring issues such as the capabilities and limitations of several proteomic methodologies and suggestions on how researchers may better overcome them. The major goal devised by roundtable leaders was to provide independent advice, describe limitations, give practical tips, help set realistic expectations and answer questions from the participants. Participants were also encouraged to be ambitious in generating new solutions or strategies for the future.