If you’re involved in histocompatibility, immunogenetics, or transplant science, ISHI in Palm Beach is one event you absolutely can’t miss. Organized by the International Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics, this meeting brings together scientists, lab professionals, clinicians, and early‑career researchers from around the globe. It’s the place to learn, grow, and connect in a supportive, small‑group atmosphere.
Whether your work involves HLA typing, transplant immunology, or population genetics, ISHI offers a program tailored to move science forward while keeping the focus squarely on people and progress.
When & Where It’s Happening
- Dates: September 28 to October 1, 2025
- Venue: Palm Beach County Convention Center, West Palm Beach, Florida
- Schedule Overview:
- Day 1: Workshops and pre‑conference meetups
- Day 2–4: Scientific sessions, poster presentations, keynote talks
- Evening receptions and networking events across those nights
Palm Beach gives you a charming seaside backdrop, with warm ocean breezes, palm-lined streets, and peaceful waterfront venues—perfect for combining work and relaxation.
What Is ISHI All About?
ISHI focuses on the science and practice behind matching donors and recipients, understanding genetic variation, and improving patient success in transplantation. Highlights include:
- Advances in HLA typing, sequencing, and bioinformatics
- Clinical applications like pre‑transplant matching and antibody detection
- Immune response and rejection mechanism research
- Population genetics insights and HLA diversity in different groups
- Quality assurance, lab best practices, and accreditation topics
The goal is clear: connect science to patient outcomes through practical, data-driven approaches.
Who Should Attend?
This conference brings together a diverse and passionate crowd, including:
- Clinical and research laboratory scientists
- Transplant immunologists and physicians
- HLA technologists and lab directors
- Bioinformaticians and data analysts
- Quality managers and accreditation officers
- Graduate students, post-docs, and early-career researchers
No matter what stage you’re at in your career, you’ll find sessions and people that speak to your needs and challenges.
What You’ll Experience
1. Pre‑Conference Workshops
Hands‑on sessions where you can work with sequencing tools, data platforms, or mock case studies, guided by technical leaders in the field.
2. Clinical & Scientific Sessions
Talks designed to provide the latest evidence in HLA research and transplant outcomes—from new allele discovery to immunologic risk stratification.
3. Poster Presentations
Hundreds of posters covering topics like HLA gene variation, antibody monitoring, clinical case studies, and new assay development. Posters are a great way to chat informally with researchers.
4. Keynote Addresses
Nationally and internationally recognized speakers address trends in transplant immunology, future directions for HLA science, and policy issues impacting global collaboration.
5. Exhibit Area
Connect with vendors offering sequencing platforms, lab automation, software solutions, QC tools, antibodies, and reagents essential for modern HLA labs.
6. Networking & Social Events
Group breakfasts, poster receptions, award ceremonies, and simple evening meetups give you opportunities to build friendships, collaborations, and mentorships.
Why It Matters
- Get early updates on new alleles, typing methods, and software tools
- Learn what’s actually being implemented in labs and clinics worldwide
- Network with experts who can help you solve issues in your own work
- Improve quality and compliance based on best-practice sessions
- Share your work with a supportive community and receive real feedback
- Enhance your career through mentorship, job leads, or collaboration possibilities
Cost & Registration
Here’s a snapshot of average fees you might expect (subject to change):
- Member Registration: Around $750 early with member discount
- Regular Rate (Non‑Member): Around $1,100
- Student / Trainee Rate: $300–$400, often with scholarship options
- Pre‑Conference Workshops: Typically $150–$250 extra per workshop
- Group or Institutional Rates: Available for labs or university teams
Early registration offers the best value and greater access to limited-capacity workshops.
Where to Stay
The convention center is surrounded by comfortable and varied lodging options:
- Nearby hotels: Within walking distance, offering easy access to the venue
- Mid‑range stays: Slightly farther out for quieter or more budget-friendly rates
- Vacation rentals: Perfect for families or lab teams traveling together
- Beachfront resorts: Ideal if you want to mix science with a little longer stay
Reserve your room early—conference season in Palm Beach fills up fast.
Getting Around
- By air: The convention center is about 15 miles from Palm Beach International Airport
- Ride-share & taxis: Convenient and available with short wait times
- Shuttles: Some hotels provide free transport to the conference
- Driving & parking: On-site garages and surface lots are available
- Walking: The convention center is walkable from many nearby hotels and restaurants
Tips to Maximize Your Time
- Plan your schedule early: Decide which workshops and scientific sessions are most relevant to you
- Bring essentials: Include a notebook or tablet, business cards, and comfortable walking shoes
- Engage with posters: These informal settings lead to real insight and new ideas
- Visit exhibitors: Live demos may spark new approaches in your lab
- Reach out: Say hi to speakers or peers—you never know where a conversation may lead
- Stay connected: Take a few minutes to follow up with new contacts after the conference
Final Thoughts
ISHI in Palm Beach isn’t just another scientific meeting—it’s a community-focused gathering that blends the best of laboratory science with clinical intent and human connection. It’s where new methods meet real-world application, where challenges become solved together, and where friendships form across borders.
If your career is in histocompatibility or transplant immunology—in research, clinical practice, or lab technology—this conference will leave you more informed, connected, and inspired to improve patient care.
To learn more and book your ticket, visit:
https://www.ishiworld.org/annual-meeting