Frequently Asked Questions
General
What is the PeDRA Annual Conference?
The PeDRA Annual Conference is an opportunity to connect and collaborate with dedicated scientists, trainees, industry partners, patients, and advocates to advance research that improves the lives of children with skin diseases and conditions. This year’s Conference is PeDRA’s 11th and will focus on stimulating new ideas, advancing collaborative research projects, and equipping attendees with important new skills and knowledge.
Who is the Conference for?
The Conference is for active investigators, emerging scientists, trainees, patients, caregivers, advocates, industry partners, and anyone else interested in or impacted by pediatric skin diseases and conditions. Whether you’re a longtime PeDRA member or collaborator, parent of a child with skin disease, or considering research in the field for the first time, we hope you’ll join us this November in Atlanta.
When and where will the Conference take place?
The 2023 PeDRA Annual Conference will take place November 9-11, 2023, at the Westin Buckhead Atlanta Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia.
When does the Conference start and end?
The 2023 PeDRA Annual Conference will officially begin with the Welcome Session at 2 PM ET on Thursday, November 9 and end when the Closing Session concludes at 12:30 PM ET on Saturday, November 11. For attendees arriving early, we will have a casual social gathering on Wednesday evening, as well as other invitation-only events happening on Thursday morning. Visit the Conference Agenda to learn more.
Is this Conference in person, virtual, or both?
At this time, PeDRA is only offering an in-person option for those who want to attend.
Is there a dress code?
While there is no formal dress code, you’ll find most attendees at the Conference wearing business casual or smart casual attire. Attendees are encouraged to be comfortable and cognizant of the diverse group of attendees spanning academia, industry, and patient advocacy. Meeting room temperatures can fluctuate, so we recommend layers for your comfort.
Who will be speaking at the Conference?
We’re excited to announce that Dr. John O’Shea will be the keynote speaker. View the full list of speakers here.
I have special dietary restrictions. How do I let the Conference organizers know?
Please indicate your special needs and/or dietary restrictions on the Conference Registration Form. Already registered? Email us.
What time zone is the event being held in?
The Conference will take place in Eastern Standard Time (EST).
How do I learn about sponsorship opportunities?
All organizations are invited to explore our sponsorship and exhibitor prospectus for opportunities to gain visibility at the 2023 Conference. Industry partners are also invited to provide general conference support at one of four levels associated with valuable benefits packages. Any organization can also email us to explore customized sponsorship packages to best suit their objectives.
Can I submit an abstract to the 2023 Conference?
Yes. Abstracts will be accepted for consideration as posters and/or oral presentations until Thursday, September 14. Please review our abstract guidelines for more information.
Can I attend a breakout session?
Yes. All attendees with regular badges are encouraged to attend one of three concurrent breakout sessions that will take place during designated “breakout session” times on the Conference Agenda. The breakout session schedule will be visible on the Conference App and signage at the Westin Buckhead.
What happens during breakout sessions?
Focused Study Group (FSG) leaders will facilitate discussions amongst a mixed audience of academic investigators, patient advocates, and industry partners. Breakout sessions at the 2023 Conference are intended for active discussion rather than routine presentations or project updates. Instead of a projector, you will find whiteboards and notepads in each breakout session room. Participants are expected to discuss obstacles, opportunities, and new project ideas.
Registration
Are there special activities I can sign up for?
Yes, we have several exciting activities and events happening within or alongside the 2023 PeDRA Annual Conference, including the Innovation Forum, NextGen Research Forum, Early Investigators Forum, Camp Wonder at PeDRA, 3rd Annual Dash for Discovery Fun Run/Walk, karaoke, and more! Most activities require separate registration forms. Visit the Conference Agenda to learn more.
How much does it cost to attend?
View the rates here.
Does PeDRA offer Travel Scholarships?
Yes, PeDRA is proud to offer Travel Scholarships to help offset the cost of travel for Trainee Members, Community Members, and Active or Affiliate Members within two years of completing training, as well as patients, parents, and advocates to attend the Conference. The deadline to apply for a Travel Scholarship is Thursday, September 14, 2023, at 5:00 PM PT.
When is the deadline to register?
Regular Registration ends September 14, 2023 and Late Registration ends October 26, 2023. View registration deadlines here.
Do PeDRA members receive a discount on registration?
Yes, view the rates here.
Not a member? Join today. You may register under your anticipated category while your membership application is being reviewed.
Are meals included with registration?
Yes, meals are provided for all registration categories. Please view the Conference Agenda to see what meals will be provided.
What if I have a special request or need special accommodations?
Please indicate your special request or accommodation on the Conference Registration Form. Already registered? Email us.
Can I cancel my registration?
View the cancellation policy here.
I still have questions. Who do I contact?
Please email us or call 971-369-0386.
Travel and Accommodations
Where should I stay for the Conference?
The 2023 PeDRA Annual Conference will take place November 9-11, 2023, at the Westin Buckhead Atlanta Hotel and we encourage attendees to stay on-site at the Conference hotel. PeDRA has negotiated a rate of $179 per night plus taxes. Book your hotel room in PeDRA’s room block by October 26, 2023.
Interested in sharing a room at the Conference?
Communicate with other Conference attendees in the Conference chat room on the PeDRA Research App. The PeDRA Research App is a member-only App that will be made available to registered conference attendees closer to the conference date. For questions, please email us.
What airport should I fly into?
PeDRA recommends flying in and out of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
How should I get to the Conference hotel?
You can take the red line on the MARTA subway system to the North Springs Station, an airport shuttle, or a taxi/rideshare to get to and from the Conference hotel. Unless you have other activities planned while visiting Atlanta, we don’t recommend renting a car.
What is parking like at the Conference?
The hotel offers on-site parking for guests for $12 per hour or $45 per day for overnight guests.