Neutrophil 2026: the Eighth Neutrophil International Symposium - Project Summary Neutrophils 2026: An Overview of the 8th International Symposium The 8th Neutrophil International Symposium will take place from September 21st to 23rd, 2026, at The Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, California. Neutrophils are the most abundant leukocyte in circulation in humans. These crucial cells play central roles in both innate and adaptive immunity. They are also critical for maintaining tissue homeostasis; however, when dysregulated, neutrophils can cause pathological changes in multiple organ systems. The 2026 meeting is themed “Neutrophil Subtypes in Health and Disease,” serving as a forum for in- depth discussions on the most recent discoveries in neutrophil biology. Key topics will include neutrophil influences on cancer biology, the generation of neutrophil precursors, inflammasome and cell death mechanisms, phagocytosis, host-pathogen interactions, and the functional and phenotypic plasticity of neutrophils in various tissue environments. Discussions will also feature exciting technological advances for studying neutrophils, the impact of neutrophil dysfunction on prevalent diseases, and novel translational approaches for altering neutrophil number, recruitment, and function. Drawing attendees from a global pool of scientists—including experts in cell biology, molecular genetics, microbiology, immunology, bioengineering, and clinical medicine, the conference provides an important venue for information dissemination and communication among investigators. It also functions as a networking forum for trainees and young investigators. Average attendance is 250 attendees. For the 2026 symposium, the organizers have recruited 23 international speakers, including a Keynote speaker. The comprehensive program includes eight sessions, one Keynote session, and one closing lecture session. These sessions will be chaired by discussion leaders who are experts in the field, and speakers will present their most recent and exciting unpublished findings. To maintain tradition, 22 junior scientists will be selected to deliver short talks based on submitted abstracts. In addition to these oral presentations, at least 160 posters are expected to be displayed. This multifaceted program is designed to provide opportunities for scientists at all career levels and specifically encourages participation from junior investigators, postdoctoral trainees, and new investigators in the field. Based on its history, the Neutrophil 2026 meeting is expected to promote collaborations and information exchange that will ultimately drive the discovery of novel therapeutics.
