Paediatric Research for the Future of Children (PRFC)

The European Society for Paediatric Research (ESPR) and the Society for Pediatric Research (SPR), together with the University of Geneva and Geneva University Hospital, are proud to collaborate on an exceptional event, 'Paediatric Research for the Future of Children: A Global Forum' designed to foster critical dialogue among leading experts in the field. Scheduled to take place at the prestigious Campus Biotech in Geneva, Switzerland on 11-13 February 2026, this event will serve as a unique platform for thought leaders, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, patient advocates and institutional representatives. The event is limited to 300 participants.

Pictures of PRFC 2026 can be accessed here. 

Please click above for an overview of the abstracts accepted to PRFC 2026. 

PRFC welcomes a community of excellent researchers at the forefront of scientific discovery. Attendees will include leading paediatric researchers, clinicians, innovators, and institutional stakeholders from around the globe.

While many congresses have increasingly prioritised commercial interests, this forum remains steadfast in its commitment to a purely science-driven agenda. Our goal is to cultivate a collaborative environment free from conflicts of interest, dedicated solely to advancing pediatric research and addressing critical challenges in the field. Join us!

The chair and co-chairs of PRFC 2026

We extend our sincere appreciation to the Geneva Tourist Bureau for their support of PRFC 2026.

The congress themes

Precision Medicine & Novel Therapies in Paediatrics 
Focusing on the customisation of medical care, this theme explores cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment strategies tailored to each child's unique genetic, molecular, and developmental profile.

Big Data in Paediatric Research
This theme delves into how vast, complex data sets from genomics, electronic health records, wearable sensors, to environmental and social determinants can be harnessed to generate actionable insights.

Child Mental Health and Development
With a spotlight on emotional, behavioural, and cognitive well-being, this theme examines the developmental trajectories that shape mental health from childhood through adolescence.

Early Life Determinants of Health and Disease
This area highlights the critical window of early life (including the prenatal and early childhood periods) and its long-lasting effects on lifelong health.

Promoting Global Paediatric Research and Paediatric Clinician Scientists
This theme supports the building of a stronger international paediatric research ecosystem.

Get to know our 'senior - early career investigator' speaker pairs

How to get to Campus Biotech: Access from Cointrin Airport

The airport is close to downtown Geneva and transportation is simple. The first thing to do is to pick up a free ticket for the Geneva public transportation system ("Transports Publics Genevois - TPG") from the "Unireso" machines in the baggage collection area at the Arrival level. This Unireso ticket allows you to use public transport in Geneva free for a period of 80 minutes (1h20). Then walk to the airport railway station and take the first train leaving. All trains halt at Geneva main station ("Gare Cornavin") which is the first stop. The ride takes 8 minutes. At the "Gare Cornavin" railway station you will find tram 15 and buses 1 / 11 / 25 which will take you to Campus Biotech.

• Bus 1, 11 and 25 - Stop Jardin Botanique
• Tram 15 - Stop Maison de la Paix

Important information about PRFC 2026

• Our mission

  Charting the course for global leadership in paediatric research by examining future trends and fostering innovation on a global scale.
• Organising societies

  

  Society for Pediatric Research (SPR)

  SPR was founded in 1929 and has over 3,600 members.

  SPR's mission is to create a network of multi-disciplinary researchers to improve child health. In pursuit of this mission SPR is guided by three goals: Connect, Collaborate, and Catalyze Research. Specifically SPR works to:

  • Connect: Facilitate active communications among and between researchers
  • Collaborate: Promote research collaborations through mentoring and knowledge sharing
  • Catalyze research: Advocate for funding and policies supportive of research

  For further information and to become a SPR member visit: www.societyforpediatricresearch.org

  

  European Society for Paediatric Research (ESPR)

  The ESPR has been at the forefront of Paediatric medical care and innovation since 1958. As one of the oldest and most prolific Paediatric research societies in Europe, its activities are organised according to three pillars:

  • The ten sections representing different Paediatric sub-specialties fostering the publication of research and guidelines;
  • The European School of Neonatology (ESN) acting as the society's educational arm and implementing a wide range of educational activities. This includes a clinically-integrated Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Neonatology, an academic Master of Science (MSc) in Neonatology (NOTE) in collaboration with the University of Southampton, and dedicated ESN hands-on pre-congress courses;
  • The European Board of Neonatal Child Health Research (EBNCHR) that periodically reviews the European Training Requirements (ETR) in Neonatology and provides leadership in the context of child health research policy and funding.

  Mission: Developing and applying research to improve newborn and child health.

  
  Collaborating Partners

  PRFC 2026 is organised in collaboratin with the University of Geneva, Geneva University Hospital, and Campus Biotech.
• Registration fees

  Categories	Early Bird Rate	Regular rate
  Senior researchers	750 €	800 €
  Nurses/Allied Healthcare Professionals	300 €	350 €
  Early Career Investigators (<36 years)	300 €	350 €
  Parent/patient representatives	200 €	250 €
  Institutional representatives	750 €	800 €
  Other stakeholders	950 €	1000 €
• Welcome Reception

  We are delighted to invite you to the Welcome Reception and Poster Session of Paediatric Research for the Future of Children (PRFC): A Global Forum.

  Please join us on Wednesday, 11 February, from 17:20 to 19:00, for an informal and inspiring start to the meeting following the Opening Ceremony. This reception, held alongside the first poster session, offers a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, meet new collaborators, and begin engaging with the outstanding science that will shape the days ahead.

  Set in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere at Campus Biotech, the evening is designed to encourage conversation across disciplines and career stages. As you explore the posters, you will encounter innovative research spanning the key themes of PRFC, presented by leading experts and emerging investigators from around the world. Refreshments will be served, providing the perfect backdrop for lively discussion, idea sharing, and the spark of new collaborations.

  We look forward to welcoming you and celebrating the opening of PRFC together in Geneva.
• The venue: Campus Biotech

  Campus Biotech, located in Geneva's Sécheron district, is a renowned center of excellence in biotechnology and life sciences. Established in 2013, it occupies the former Merck Serono building and spans 40,000 square meters. The campus is dedicated to advancing research in neuroscience, neurotechnology, digital health, and global health. It hosts a diverse community of scientists and entrepreneurs, including prominent institutions such as the EPFL-UNIGE Biomedical Center, the Wyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering, and the Health 2030 Genome Center. As part of the Swiss Innovation Park, Campus Biotech positions the Lake Geneva region at the forefront of global research in these fields. We look forward to welcoming you there!

  Address: Campus Biotech Innovation Park, Av. de Sécheron 15, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland.

  Find out more: www.campusbiotech.ch/en

  
• Discover Geneva – The Host City of PRFC 2026

  Nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the majestic Alps and Jura mountains, Geneva is one of the most captivating cities in Europe. Known as a global hub for diplomacy, science, and innovation, Geneva offers an inspiring setting for the Pediatric Research for the Future of Children Summit.

  Geneva is home to countless international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, making it a center for advancing health and well-being on a global scale. Its reputation as a leader in research and collaboration aligns perfectly with the mission of this summit: to drive innovation in pediatric care and create a better future for children.

  The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, with its historic Old Town, cobblestone streets, and iconic landmarks like St. Peter's Cathedral and the Jet d'Eau fountain. Visitors can enjoy world-class museums, such as the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire and the Patek Philippe Museum, as well as Geneva's vibrant culinary scene and renowned Swiss hospitality.

  The event will take place at Campus Biotech, a world-class research and innovation center dedicated to biotechnology, neuroscience, and global health. Located in the heart of the city, Campus Biotech reflects Geneva's dedication to cutting-edge research and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

  Join us in Geneva for a summit that combines groundbreaking science with the charm and elegance of one of Europe's most beautiful cities. Together, let's shape the future of pediatric research in a setting that inspires progress and innovation.

  

Contact us

For any questions you may have, please reach out to our team via prfc2026@espr.eu.

We cannot wait to meet you in Geneva in February 2026!