See What’s New—and What’s Returning—at the 2026 PeDRA Annual Conference

News Updates

2026

August 10, 2026 – The 14th PeDRA Annual Conference is just around the corner, and we’re excited to welcome the pediatric dermatology research community to Alexandria, Virginia, October 15–17, 2026. This year’s theme, From Intention to Impact: Making Space for Research, reflects our shared commitment to advancing research through collaboration, innovation, and meaningful connections.

While attendees can look forward to the plenary sessions, networking events, Focused Study Group (FSG) collaboration, and the annual karaoke night that have become conference favorites, we’ve also introduced several exciting additions designed to enhance your conference experience.

New This Year

Conference Kick-Off on Thursday morning with Collaborative Breakfast
For the first time, the PeDRA Annual Conference will start bright and early on Thursday morning rather than Thursday afternoon. Attendees have the chance to book a table during a new Collaborative Breakfast for small group research discussions before heading straight into the welcome session and a Day 1 agenda filled with breakout sessions and oral presentations.

Research Resources Roundup
Need help navigating the many research resources available through PeDRA and beyond? Our new Research Resources Roundup on Friday afternoon will showcase tools, services, and programs available to support investigators at every stage of their research journey. Whether you’re launching your first project or expanding an established program, you’ll discover resources designed to help move your work forward.

Camp Wonder at PeDRA on Saturday
We’re pleased to welcome back Camp Wonder at PeDRA, with special activities taking place on Saturday at 10:30 AM (local time). This FREE event is organized by the Children’s Skin Disease Foundation (CSDF) and provides a special experience for pediatric attendees during the PeDRA Conference. Sign up today! As a special treat this year, CSDF will be looking for some grown-ups to compete with the campers on some of the activities. If you’ll be at the conference and may be interested in this, send us an email to let us know! Space is limited.

NextGen Research Forum on Saturday
For the first time, the NextGen Research Forum will take place on Saturday, creating even more space and opportunities for trainees and early-career investigators to connect with mentors, present ideas, and build lasting relationships within the PeDRA community.

Returning Favorites

Alongside these new additions, attendees can still expect the conference experiences they know and love, including:

Inspiring plenary sessions featuring leaders in pediatric dermatology research
Meaningful networking opportunities with colleagues across disciplines and career stages
Breakout Sessions for sharing research ideas, building collaborations and overcoming obstacles within each of PeDRA’s eleven FSGs. Making a return this year is a dedicated breakout session for cross-cutting research that may not fit in any one FSG.
The always-popular annual karaoke during the reception on Friday evening
Poster presentations showcasing the latest pediatric dermatology research.
An engaging exhibit hall featuring patient advocacy organizations and industry partners, with opportunities to connect, explore resources, and engage with the pediatric dermatology community throughout the conference
The PeDRA Conference Game to drive engagement throughout the conference with a chance to win this year’s blue PeDRA trucker hat.
The 6th Annual Dash for Discovery, where attendees can come together and run, walk, or stretch to raise funds for PeDRA’s FSGs (a separate registration is required)