ESRU in action: Key projects, and progress for urology residents

Survey-based research that reflects real needs

Survey-based research has long been a cornerstone of ESRU’s efforts to understand the needs of residents in urology and to their interests across Europe. Our recent study, “Regulations on pregnancy and parenthood during urology residency in European countries”, was successfully presented by Dr. Luca Afferi (Past-chair) at EAU25 and AUA25, with a manuscript now under review (1). Data collection has also concluded for our second project, “European survey on knowledge, exposure, and protection of radiation in urology”, which received responses from 20 different countries. The aim is to support safer, evidence-based training in radiation practices. 

We are launching two new ESRU surveys this August (2025):

• “Job satisfaction and psychosocial workload during urological residency in Europe”
• “Worldwide survey on SWL, URS and PNL teaching, learning and training during urology residency”

From learning to competing: A full day of resident-centred activities

In collaboration with the YUO, ESRU proudly organised another successful edition of the traditional YUOR Day sessions at the EAU25 in Madrid. Designed from residents for residents, the sessions represented one of the highlights of the EAU25. From career advice and international fellowship opportunities to practical surgical tips and a lively debate on nightmare cases, the YUOR Day programme offered valuable insights into challenges and opportunities during urologic residency across Europe.

The day concluded with the Guidelines Cup competition, a dynamic and interactive quiz session prepared by ESRU in collaboration with the EAU Guidelines Office. This competition challenged the top three European urology residents, while the audience actively participated using live polling keypads. Both contestants and attendees enjoyed testing their knowledge and learning in a high-energy atmosphere. Congratulations to this year’s winner, Dr. Ana Marinho (PT). If you want to experience the same excitement, stay tuned for the 2026 Guidelines Cup application call!

The Fellowship Registry Guide - Supporting career development

Another highlight from ESRU represents “The European Fellowship Registry in Urology ” guide.  This regularly updated template summarises fellowship opportunities across Europe, helping residents to discover new paths for learning and career development during or after urologic training.

Looking ahead: ESRU Board Meeting

NCOs from across 14 different countries are now preparing to travel to Prague for the upcoming ESRU Board Meeting on 31 August during the European Urology Residents Education Programme (EUREP25). At this meeting, plans for the second half of the year will be shaped, with upcoming ESRU projects discussed and developed. Alongside the working agenda, NCOs will take part in a lively social programme, connecting with peers - all while strengthening the ESRU community spirit.

If you're interested in building a truly European-level career, contributing ideas, or becoming part of the ESRU community, please get in touch with your national representation of residents in urology.

The ESRU Board consists of the Executive Committee and the National Communication Officers (NCOs), who represent and advocate for their respective national interests at the European level. Together with the Young Academic Urologists (YAU), ESRU is part of the EAU Young Urologists Office (YUO). ESRU supports education, strengthens professional networks, and supports collaboration among residents and young urologists on the European level. Moreover, ESRU plays an active role in representing and empowering the next generation of urologists. 

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References

1. Afferi L, Margue G, Toribio-Vázquez C, et al. Regulations on pregnancy and parenthood during urology residency in European countries. Eur Urol Suppl. 2025;87(S1):S940.