This interdisciplinary workshop is dedicated to advancing research on vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRDs).
Morning seminars, available in person or virtually, will highlight diverse topics, including glial biology, metabolic dysfunction, peripheral influences and mouse modeling. Afternoon and evening sessions are focused on hands-on workshops and trainee career development activities that include on omic approaches to study VCID, actionable priorities with regard to the creation and use of VCID models, trainee talks on their own research, and grantsmanship skills. Two keynote speakers will anchor the event, with one setting the stage for VCID research and another looking ahead to its future. This workshop is designed to provide the knowledge and skills you need to drive innovation in dementia research.
Why Attend?
- Engaging Seminars. Experts will introduce both foundational and cutting-edge VCID concepts, as well as broader topics such as human to mouse translation, the value of -omics, the responsible conduct of research and how to establish an inclusive working environment.
- Poster Sessions & Grant Proposals. Trainees will have the opportunity to present short talks or posters, gain feedback and work closely with experts in the field to develop VCID-related research proposals.
- Career Development & Collaboration. The conference schedule includes ample career development and networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration and enhance the experience for both early-career and senior investigators.
Workshop Schedule
The 2026 Workshop Schedule is currently being developed. While the full program will be finalized soon, here’s a sneak peek at the tentative schedule to help you plan ahead:
Tuesday, April 28
- Arrivals
- 5:00 PM – Poster Session
- Dinner at the Missouri Botanical Garden
Wednesday, April 29
- Keynote Lecture
- Interactive Workshop Sessions
Thursday, April 30
- Full day of Workshop Sessions
- Evening Dinner with Workshop Faculty
Friday, May 1
- Group Grant Proposal Prep & Presentation (optional for non-trainee attendees)
- Awards Ceremony
- Event concludes at Lunch
Travel Awards: Although scholarships are not available for this workshop, a limited number of travel awards are available to trainees to support flight and hotel costs. Please apply for a travel award at the time of registration. Travel awards average $1000/trainee and are paid as a reimbursement after the conclusion of the workshop.
Accommodation Information
We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. To request accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact Erin McDevitt at 207-288-6000 x256659 or [email protected].
