Young Investigators

Tuesday, September 30 | 12:30-13:30

Join us for a relaxed Meet and Greet Lunch with the Young Investigator Committee (YIC). This informal gathering will offer trainees the opportunity to meet YIC members, learn about ongoing initiatives, and explore ways to get involved in the IXA community. It’s a great chance to connect early in the meeting and kickstart new collaborations!

Thursday, October 2 | 17:05-18:35

Join us for an inspiring and forward-looking session designed specifically for young investigators interested in the future of xenotransplantation. This dynamic program will feature leading experts discussing cutting-edge topics ranging from breeding and blastocyst complementation to xenograft pathology and the first clinical experiences with kidney xenotransplantation.

Through engaging talks and an interactive panel discussion, attendees will gain unique scientific insights, hear career reflections from pioneers in the field, and have the opportunity to ask questions directly. Whether you are just starting out or looking to deepen your involvement in xenotransplantation research, this session will offer valuable knowledge, inspiration, and connections.

Moderators:   

Raphael Meier
Chair, IXA young Investigator Committee
Associate Professor of Surgery, Liver, Kidney, and Pancreas Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Maryland, United States

Konrad Fischer
Postdoc, Chair of Livestock Biotechnology, Technical University Munich, Germany

On the Agenda:

Breeding vs cloning
Eckhard Wolf, Germany

Xenotransplantation: the blastocyst complementation route
Hiroshi Nakauchi, United States

BANFF classification for Kidney, Heart and Liver xenograft pathology
Alessia Giarraputo, France

Xenotransplantation - five decades of progress
Megan Sykes, United States

Initial clinical experience with compassionate-use kidney xenotransplantation
Jeffrey Stern, United States

Panel discussion and audience Q&A

Thursday, October 2 | 19:00-20:00
Venue: Bateau Genève (Quai Gustave-Ador 1)
included in the registration fees

Join us aboard the Bateau Genève for an informal and fun evening of networking and community building! We are planning light ice-breaker games to help everyone get to know each other, including a "Young vs. Senior Investigator" trivia or Jeopardy-style quiz featuring fun facts about xenotransplantation and the IXA community. A microphone and screen will be available to make the games interactive and lively. Whether you’re a trainee or a senior expert, this will be a relaxed setting to meet new colleagues, share ideas, and kick off new collaborations.

Then stay on for the Congress Networking Dinner. A fee of $55 applies.

CONGRESS NETWORKING EVENT DETAILS :

Once launched in 1896 for the Swiss National Exhibition, Le Bateau Genève now serves as a beacon of support and integration for those in need—hosting social projects and providing daily breakfasts for over 150 people in precarious situations. Your participation helps support these ongoing initiatives, with proceeds reinvested into the community.

Enjoy local food and wine, warm company, and meaningful conversations with fellow attendees—all while giving back.

✨ Space is limited—secure your spot today and be part of this special night of connection and purpose!

Wednesday, October 1 | 7am departure
Included in the registration fees

Our Young Investigator Committee looks forward leading a run or walk along Lake Geneva! Sign up regardless of your fitness level, take part and enjoy a jog (or stroll) - approx. 5 km (3 miles).

Start: Bain des Pâquis (public gathering point)

Head east along the lake promenade toward Baby Plage, staying on the lakeside pedestrian path.

Pass landmarks: Jet d'Eau, English Garden (Jardin Anglais)

Turnaround point: Shortly after Baby Plage (approximately 1.5 miles out)

Return along the same lakeside route back to Bain des Pâquis

Terrain: Flat, scenic, fully paved along Lake Geneva

Difficulty: Easy, relaxed pace — walkers and runners welcome