IFRM 2026 Winter Symposium

The UIC Institute for Functional and Regenerative Materials (IFRM) is thrilled to announce its 3rd Annual 2026 Winter Symposium focused on the cutting-edge fields of functional imaging and functional biomaterials. This event is designed to bring together scientists, researchers, and professionals with a shared interest in these innovative areas to foster learning, networking, and collaboration.

Symposium Details

Date: December 15, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Student Services Building (SSB), Conference Room BC, 1220 W. Harrison St., Chicago IL
RSVP required.

The traditional boundary between university research and industry innovation continues to blur as partnerships expand and entrepreneurial ventures create new opportunities for collaboration.

Join the IFRM for its second annual winter symposium to explore advances in functional and regenerative materials research, development, and deployment across academia and industry, with applications spanning medicine, engineering, and the physical sciences. Hear from accomplished leaders with decades of experience in both sectors through invited talks and an expanded expert panel. Gain insights into emerging research, technologies, and translational breakthroughs while exploring how discoveries move from the laboratory to real-world applications. Connect with peers and speakers in a stimulating environment designed to spark new ideas, collaborations, and partnerships. Postdoctoral researchers and students will especially benefit from the invited experts’ collective career experience and advice.

Scientists, researchers, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and others interested in functional and regenerative materials research are welcome to attend at no cost. Expand your knowledge, grow your professional network, and enjoy a complimentary lunch.

Who Should Attend

The workshop is open to all interested in the fields of functional imaging and functional biomaterials. This includes persons from industry, academia, and national laboratories. Postdocs and students of all levels are also encouraged to attend, as career development will be one of the focuses during the meet and greet activity.

RSVP Required

To attend the workshop, please complete the RSVP form found below. There is no fee to attend. Dietary restrictions are requested so we can plan for your attendance at the luncheon.