The 2027 IDRC programme brings together global leaders, pioneering researchers and professionals from stem cell registries worldwide for a bold, future‑focused exploration of the stem cell donor landscape. Across plenaries, panel discussions, interactive workshops and research presentations, you’ll discover the innovations, challenges and opportunities shaping registries around the world.
Expect fresh thinking, practical insights and inspiring stories of international collaboration – all designed to equip you and your team for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
A full programme will be published in Summer 2026, but here’s an early look at what’s in store:
Early view of the 2027 IDRC agenda
Latest in using mismatched donors
This session will share the latest global trial data, new search algorithm developments and perspectives from major registries adapting their matching practices.
Medical breakthroughs in cellular therapies – and what they mean for registries
Explore the fast‑moving world of cellular therapies, from new allogeneic treatments to cord blood innovations. Hear directly from industry experts – including India’s CAR‑T developers – about what’s coming next and how registries can stay ahead.
Register of the future
We’ll be looking at registries’ involvement in clinical trials, biobanking, and building apheresis capacity, responding to increasing clinical demand. Insights from rapidly growing Asian registries will showcase scalable models to build diversity, resilience and donor engagement. Smaller registries can also join a tailored workshop addressing their unique challenges.
AI in donor selection and beyond
How might artificial intelligence reshape registry operations? Discover emerging tools for smarter donor selection, more personalised communication, and enhanced supporter engagement – and explore the opportunities already on the horizon.
Fighting for Equity
Inequity remains one of the biggest barriers to access. Hear the latest research, uncover pathways to reduce costs across donor and transplantation services, and explore how registries can actively drive fairness and inclusion for patients worldwide.
Global collaboration in an age of geopolitical turbulence
International cooperation is more important – and more complex – than ever. Hear from WMDA and global experts on maintaining seamless cross‑border donor exchange, navigating new policy landscapes, and ensuring regulation supports rather than hinders collaboration.
Improving donor availability
From peer and influencer engagement to cultural norms and practical barriers, this session digs into the real‑world factors shaping donor decisions. You’ll learn from registries with strong youth participation and have the opportunity to join a practical workshop focused on immediate, evidence‑based steps to improve donor availability.
The drive towards sustainability
Explore sustainability through environmental, financial and ethical lenses. We’ll be looking at the achievable, meaningful actions registries can take to build long‑term resilience – and the collective steps we can take together.
