World Molecular Imaging Congress (WMIC) - ABSTRACT Molecular imaging (MI) is a multidisciplinary field that enables the noninvasive visualization and quantification of biological processes in living systems, providing powerful tools for early disease diagnosis, guidance of therapeutic interventions, and the elucidation of disease mechanisms. Molecular imaging (MI) technologies are transforming biomedical research and accelerating discovery in cancer, neuroscience, immunology, cardiology, infection, and regenerative medicine. The World Molecular Imaging Society (WMIS) is committed to advancing molecular imaging and supporting the scientific community by driving its innovation and impact. The annual World Molecular Imaging Congress (WMIC) is the Society’s principal international forum for presenting the latest breakthroughs in MI, fostering collaboration among scientists and physicians from academia, industry, and government and providing training to the next generation of imaging scientists. WMIS places special emphasis on providing educational, mentoring and networking opportunities to early-career scientists, recognizing that effective training and professional support are crucial at this critical stage. By fostering the skills, visibility, and professional networks essential for success in an increasingly competitive scientific environment, WMIS ensures a strong pipeline of future leaders who will advance the field of molecular imaging. WMIC 2026 will be held in Salt Lake City, Utah, September 8–11, 2026 and feature plenary lectures, symposia, oral and poster sessions, and four full-day Immersion Sessions focused on Spatial Biology, AI in Imaging and Therapy Discovery, Imaging of Therapeutic Response, and New Alternative Methods (NAMs) aligned with current NIH priorities. The long-term objective of this application is to provide sustained support for early-career scientists. This will be achieved through two Specific Aims: (1) offering opportunities for active participation in the meeting program as speakers, moderators, and discussion leaders; and (2) delivering educational and career-development activities through expert-led sessions, skill-building workshops, and targeted mentoring programs. Given the current limitations in available funding for early-career scientists, the meeting requires additional financial support to provide travel assistance for graduate students and postdoctoral trainees, ensuring they can present their work, engage with the community, and benefit from essential educational and career-development opportunities. Therefore, the overarching goal of the WMIC 2026 R13 application is to advance molecular imaging science while providing critical travel support for graduate students and postdoctoral trainees to attend the annual meeting. We expect that the travel award will significantly strengthen early-stage investigators’ career trajectories by enabling them to disseminate their research, engage directly with field leaders, and cultivate the professional relationships necessary for future success.
