ABSTRACT
The 2024 Annual Meeting of the Pan-American Society for Pigment Cell Research (PASPCR), entitled, “Where
pigment cell research never sleeps” will be held in New York City, September 9-12, 2024. Founded in 1988
and made up of approximately 100 members, the PASPCR unites clinicians, developmental biologists,
biochemists, immunologists, cell biologists, photobiologists and chemists in the study of pigmentation, melanin
and melanocytes. The overall objective of PASPCR 2024 is to increase our knowledge of the normal and
abnormal chemistry, biology, and photobiology of the melanocyte across species and its contribution to human
health and disease. Building on the success of partnering with other melanocyte focused societies at our last
meeting, we are planning a patient session sponsored by the Skin of Color Society (SOCS), the Global Vitiligo
Foundation (GVF), and the Global Albinism Alliance (GAA) focused on patients with skin of color and the
impact of melanocyte disease. The goals of the meeting are to (1) highlight recent advances in melanin
structure and analysis across species, in pigment cell response to light and other environmental stimuli, and in
genome-level understanding of melanocyte function and transformation using relevant animal models and
human tissues, (2) bring together investigators and clinicians with strong interests in photoprotection,
melanocyte developmental and stem cell biology and health disparities in pigmentary disease, and (3) provide
mentorship to young investigators with a specific focus on identifying and overcoming career barriers
encountered by women and underrepresented minorities. We have emphasized the importance of diversity,
equity, and inclusivity (DEI) with a dedicated educational session and patient session, by inviting faculty from
the SOCS to our meeting. In response to requests by trainees and young investigators, we are incorporating a
panel discussion focused on pigment cell research in the Industry setting. We have ensured meaningful
inclusion of young investigators, women, and underrepresented minorities among the invited speakers and
leadership of PASPCR 2024. The meeting also features a "Mentorship Mixer" that provides a structured
mechanism for students and trainees to obtain scientific and career guidance from well-established scientists.
Led by a strong organizational team, PASPCR 2024 promises to be a conference of lasting impact for the
pigment cell biology community.
