My First SID Experience: Seeing Research Come to Life

June 2, 2026 – Before attending the Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID) Annual Meeting for the first time, I mostly knew it through calendars, meeting invites, project updates, and the many conversations happening across PeDRA’s Focused Study Groups (FSGs). As a Project Manager at PeDRA, much of my work happens behind the scenes supporting investigators, coordinating projects, and helping move research efforts forward. Attending 2026 SID Annual Meeting gave me the opportunity to step into the environment where so much of that work begins.

My name is Sherry Baluch, and I joined PeDRA in August 2025 as a Project Manager. While I regularly work with pediatric dermatology researchers, trainees, and clinicians, this was my first time attending SID and my first opportunity to experience the research community gathered together in one place. What stood out to me most was the energy around scientific curiosity. Everywhere I turned, there were conversations about new ideas, research findings, challenges in the field, and opportunities to collaborate. Whether during presentations, poster sessions, or conversations between sessions, there was a strong sense of excitement about advancing dermatology research.

Coming from a project management background, I found it especially meaningful to see how research ideas develop over time. At PeDRA, I often hear discussions about study concepts, FSG priorities, and future directions during meetings. At SID, I had the opportunity to see many of those ideas presented, discussed, and expanded upon in real time. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the collaboration, persistence, and dedication involved in moving research forward.

One of the highlights for me was meeting colleagues and PeDRA members in person. After working with many people through Teams meetings and email threads, it was rewarding to finally connect face-to-face. The pediatric dermatology community was incredibly welcoming, and I left feeling even more connected to the people behind the work.

I also enjoyed seeing the variety of research being presented, from early scientific discovery to discussions about clinical impact and future therapies. It reinforced how important collaboration is among researchers, clinicians, organizations, and industry partners in improving care for children with skin diseases.

Leaving SID, I felt inspired not only by the science, but also by the people. As someone who supports research operations behind the scenes, attending the meeting gave me a valuable new perspective on the impact of the work happening every day across the pediatric dermatology community. I came away with new ideas, a greater appreciation for the research process, and excitement for what is ahead.

For a first SID experience, it was educational, energizing, and motivating. I am already looking forward to the next one.

Get to know Sherry and her work with PeDRA in this interview, and catch up on what you may have missed at SID 2026 through conversations with leading experts.

Looking for funding for your next research project? PeDRA is currently accepting applications for several 2026 PeDRA Grants.

Registration and abstract submission are now open for the 14th PeDRA Annual Conference, taking place October 15-17, 2026, in Alexandria, VA. Early Registration ends and applications for the NextGen Research Forum and Travel Scholarships are due July 2, 2026.