Conference Description
The Quantitative Genetics and Genomics GRC is a premier, international scientific conference focused on advancing the frontiers of science through the presentation of cutting-edge and unpublished research, prioritizing time for discussion after each talk and fostering informal interactions among scientists of all career stages. The conference program includes an array 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.
Linear model methodology is the bedrock of quantitative genetics and is routinely used to estimate genetic parameters and to develop powerful prediction models (e.g., polygenic risk scores (PRS)). Machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) have revolutionized data simulation, the analysis of complex data sets, and predictive analytics in many fields, including text and image processing, speech recognition, and decision-making using data-driven autonomous agents. However, the use of ML and AI in quantitative genetics remains limited. Our goal is to foster debate around two main questions: Are there fundamental reasons that explain why ML and AI have had limited use in quantitative genetics? What opportunities can ML and AI offer for the simulation of genomes and phenotypes, the modeling of polygenic traits, and the elucidation of the underlying biology of complex traits and disease? This conference and seminar will bring together scientists working in quantitative genetics, ML and AI to exchange information on the latest results in the field and to discuss their implications.
The conference chair is currently developing their preliminary program, which will include 9 sessions and the names of the invited speakers and discussion leaders for each of these sessions. The preliminary program will be available by May 20, 2026. Please check back for updates.