Parasite Interactions in Insect and Vertebrate Hosts that Drive Transmission, Infection, and Disease

The 2026 edition of this meeting will spotlight the complex interactions between eukaryotic parasites and their diverse insect and vertebrate hosts. Emphasizing co-evolutionary dynamics, the program will feature cutting-edge research on the cellular, molecular, and immunological mechanisms that govern parasite transmission, development, and pathogenicity. Despite the significant global burden imposed by many of these parasites, the diseases they cause remain critically underrepresented in research and public health agendas. This meeting aims to address that gap by offering a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration among experts in parasite biology, host-pathogen interactions, vector biology, pathogenesis, and epidemiology. By bringing together leading scientists across these disciplines, the 2026 meeting will foster interdisciplinary dialogue, highlight emerging discoveries, and promote innovative strategies for tackling some of the world's most neglected parasitic diseases.

The conference program includes a diverse range of speakers and discussion leaders from institutions and organizations worldwide, concentrating on the latest developments in the field. The conference is five days long and held in a remote location to increase the sense of camaraderie and create scientific communities, with lasting collaborations and friendships. In addition to premier talks, the conference has designated time for poster sessions from individuals of all career stages, and afternoon free time and communal meals allow for informal networking opportunities with leaders in the field.

The accompanying GRS will provide young scientists with opportunities to develop their presentation skills and peer networking in a stimulating environment. Postdocs and students will present their research and participate in panel discussions with senior faculty mentors on the practice of science, mentorship, and transition to academia and other careers. Unlike other, more narrowly focused meetings that concentrate on specific pathogens, the Host-Parasite Interactions GRC and GRS are unique in providing an opportunity for a broad discussion of all topics in the field of parasitology, including important discoveries in both the basic and translational areas, and catalyzing cross-fertilization of ideas between sub-disciplines.