Viral Pathogenesis and Immunity: From Molecular Discoveries to Therapeutics

This symposium will bring together scientists across academia, industry, and government to explore the biology of viral infection, antiviral immunity, and the urgent need for countermeasures against a range of viral pathogens. The meeting aims to spark interdisciplinary collaboration and the exchange of novel ideas in this rapidly evolving field, with a focus on viral immunology, pathogenesis, evolution, prevention, and treatment.  

Sessions will cover topics such as host-virus interactions, host factors affecting susceptibility,  species expansion of emerging pathogens, effective and ineffective innate and adaptive immune responses, immune-based therapies, and vaccine innovation. Special emphasis will be placed on host-directed and immune-based approaches, which are gaining momentum in the field. By bringing together virologists and immunologists to share both breakthroughs and challenges, this symposium will help drive forward the development of effective therapies and vaccines against both emerging and persistent viral threats. 

Organization 

The conference is jointly organized by Keystone Symposia and the Volkswagen Foundation. The Scientific Organizers are Michaela U. Gack (Cleveland Clinic Foundation, USA), Michael S. Diamond (Washington University School of Medicine, USA), Volker Thiel (University of Bern, Switzerland), and Pei-Yong Shi (GSK). 

Keystone Symposia on Molecular and Cellular Biology is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in Silverthorne, Colorado, USA that convenes open, peer-reviewed conferences across a broad range of the life sciences. The mission of Keystone Symposia is to serve as a catalyst for the advancement of biomedical and life sciences by connecting scientists within and across disciplines at conferences and workshops held at venues that create an environment conducive to information exchange, generation of new ideas and acceleration of applications that benefit society. Approximately 50-60 conferences take place each year. 

Language 

The conference language is English. 

Program 

A detailed program can be found at the conference website: https://www.keystonesymposia.org/conferences/conference-listing/meeting/onpage-program/E22026  

Registration 

Registration through Keystone Symposia’s website:  https://www.keystonesymposia.org/conferences/conference-listing/meeting/pricing/E22026 

Short Talk Abstract Deadline: February 11, 2026