a graphic with loma linda university school of Medicine logo and text says Basic Sciences Research Symposium with decorative artwork

The 29th Annual Basic Sciences Research Symposium is scheduled for October 29, 2026 from 9:15 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at Loma Linda University Church - Fellowship Hall.

The annual symposium brings together researchers, scientists and academics to showcase and discuss advancements in the field of basic sciences. 

This year’s theme is "Stem Cells in Human Disease: From Mechanism to Therapeutic Targeting."

The symposium serves as a platform for participants to present their original research findings, share insights, and engage in discussions with peers. 

New for 2026: The Basic Sciences Research Symposium will include the Inland Empire Stem Cell Consortium (IESCC). The IESCC is comprised of researchers undertaking stem cell research at the University of California, Riverside (UCR), Loma Linda University (LLU), Western University, and California State University at San Bernardino (CSUSB). Approximately 40 laboratories belong to the Consortium. The goals of the Consortium are to create a collegial environment for interaction of stem cell laboratories in the Inland Empire, to establish broad-based training opportunities for students including CIRM Bridges students in stem cell biology, and to provide a forum for making the stem cell research in our geographical area better known to people in our communities. 

 Symposium Highlights  

  • Keynote and Panel Discussions: Experts discussing cutting-edge research trends, emerging technologies and challenges.
  • Poster Sessions: Attendees share their details of the research with the presenters.
  • Networking Opportunities: There will be time to network, establish collaborations, and exchange ideas. 
  • Student Participation: Young researchers are encouraged to attend and many will be participating in the poster presentations.
  • Vendors: Attendees can browse an exhibit area of vendors providing scientific equipment, supplies and latest technological developments.  
     

“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”
— Edward Everett Hale

Organizing Committee 2025:

Erik Behringer, PhD
Johnny Figueroa, PhD
Olivia Franscis-Boyle, PhD
Stella Goulopoulou, MS, PhD – Chair
Christian Hurtz, PhD
Salma Khan, MD, PhD
Isaac Kremsky, PhD
Xiao Mao, MD
Patil Rameshwar, PhD
Ubaldo Soto, PhD
Julia Unternaehrer, PhD

Trainee representatives:
Jeanyoung Kim, MS
Julio Sierra, MS

Administrative Support:
Patty Beltran
Keanan Fleck
Maria Villareal