session types

Discover the different types of sessions, from large-scale Plenary Sessions to intimate networking events, that you can attend at the ISSCR 2026 Annual Meeting.

Large conference hall filled with many attendees seated in rows, facing a stage with a large screen displaying a presentation on neural stem cells. There are speakers and a few people standing at the front and in the audience.

  • The cornerstone of the ISSCR Annual Meeting, Plenary Sessions feature inspirational “body of work” presentations, keynote addresses from luminaries in the field, award lectures, and patient perspectives, all selected by the ISSCR 2026 Annual Meeting Program Committee to highlight the field’s most impactful advancements.

A woman with curly blonde hair, wearing a cream-colored blazer and black skirt, stands at a podium with a microphone, smiling during a presentation at the ISSCR 2024 conference.

  • The ISSCR celebrates leadership, collaboration, and discovery through three memorial lectures during plenary sessions. The Ernest McCulloch Memorial Lecture honors curiosity and innovation that defines the foundations of stem cell biology. The Anne McLaren Memorial Lecture highlights ethical integrity and public advocacy. The John McNeish Memorial Lecture reflects the collaboration between academia and industry driving clinical advances. Together, these lectures honor the core values that shape the ISSCR community, with  speakers selected by the ISSCR 2026 Annual Meeting Program Committee.

Man in gray suit and glasses standing at a lectern, giving a presentation at a conference, with a screen behind him displaying 'International Society for Stem Cell Research' and the event logo 'ISSCR 2024'.

  • Each year, the ISSCR Awards recognize individuals from around the world for innovation and excellence in stem cell research across all career stages. Recipients of the Outstanding Young Investigator (early career), Momentum (mid-career), and Achievement (late-career) Awards present their work at the ISSCR Annual Meeting. The ISSCR Public Service Award also honors exceptional public service contributions to stem cell research.  

A large conference room filled with attendees sitting in chairs, watching a presentation on a large screen at the front. The room has a colorful ceiling installation with blue and red hanging elements.

  • Dive into specialized stem cell research topics in our concurrent track sessions, featuring dynamic discussions, presentations, Q&A, and panels. Explore five scientific tracks and a Global Stakeholder Initiatives (GSI) track, all expertly coordinated by ISSCR Committees, including the 2026 Annual Meeting Program, Ethics, Public Policy, and the Manufacturing, Clinical Translation and Regulatory Committees

Four people sitting at a panel discussion on stage in front of a large screen displaying a scientific presentation titled 'Science Spotlight' about cell polarity in organoid-derived models of health and disease.

  • Organized by ISSCR student and postdoc members, Science Spotlights provide a fresh perspective on emerging scientific topics not covered elsewhere in the program. Science Spotlight proposals are reviewed and selected by the ISSCR 2026 Annual Meeting Program Committee.

Four people sitting at a panel discussion with name tags, microphones, in a conference room. From left to right: Chris Bond, Melissa Carpenter, Giuliana Gagliardi, Tina Mukherjee.

  • Organized by the ISSCR Early Career Advisory Committee, experienced panelists from various industries and career stages provide valuable guidance, strategies, and insights to help emerging professionals advance their careers in the field.  

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  • A platform for in-depth programs on specialized research topics, these scientifically driven sessions, sponsored by top academic institutions, organizations, and industry partners deliver cutting-edge insights and innovations. If your organization or non-profit is interested in organizing a Focus Session at the Annual Meeting, please contact ISSCR Industry Relations at exhibits@isscr.org for more information. Focus session programs are reviewed and approved by the ISSCR 2026 Annual Meeting Program Committee.

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  • These sponsored sessions highlight the latest products, services, tools, and technologies that are driving stem cell research and clinical advancements into the future. 

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  • Organized by attendees, Meet-Up Hubs are networking sessions in the Exhibit & Poster Hall where individuals with shared interests come together. These forums offer a great opportunity to expand your professional network and engage in meaningful conversations with colleagues who share your interests. 

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  • The Exhibit Hall Theater, located within the Exhibit & Poster Hall, features brief sponsored sessions on specialized topics. Attendees can hear from scientific and industry leaders about a wide range of topics, including the latest science updates, technology applications, and career opportunities.