HOUSTON, April 15, 2025 – The Eastern Society for Pediatric Research (ESPR) Annual Conference was held on March 14-16, 2025, in Philadelphia with over 300 attendees. ESPR is an exceptional opportunity for investigators to share their latest research, engage in meaningful discussions with like-minded colleagues across the region, and advance our collective mission of improving child health. This meeting is particularly valuable for early-career investigators, providing a welcoming environment where they can present their work, receive constructive feedback, and build connections that will shape their careers.

The meeting featured distinguished invited speakers from institutions across the region including Dr. Catherine Bollard on March 15 and panelists including Dr. Kristyn Beam, Dr. Mark Mercurio and Veronica Weser, PhD on March 16. A key highlight was the presentation of the ESPR Mentor of the Year Award to Dr. Sharon Smith whose dedication to guiding and inspiring the next generation of pediatric researchers has had a lasting impact on the field.