PRFC 2026 Connects Pediatric Research Globally
Advancing dialogue across disciplines, geographies, and the future of child health
The inaugural Paediatric Research for the Future of Children (PRFC) A Global Forum brought together pediatric investigators from North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia during a time of rapid scientific and structural change in the field.
Jointly hosted by the European Society for Paediatric Research (ESPR) and the Society for Pediatric Research (SPR), PRFC was designed to showcase research and focused dialogue on the evolving landscape of child health research.
Across panel discussions, senior-early career speaker pairs, and poster presentations, a consistent emerging thread emerged: innovation in pediatric research, and progress depends on stronger collaboration across disciplines, institutions, and geographies.
The scientific program’s five core themes – precision medicine, big data, child mental health and development, early life determinants of health, and promoting pediatric research and clinician scientists – reflected both current priorities and future directions in the field. Discussions extended beyond individual studies to consider how data integration, workforce development, and global partnerships will shape the next decade of discovery.
As SPR Member, Jessica Snowden, MD, MS, MHPTT, reflected following the meeting,
“What stands out is not just the science—though it is among the most compelling I’ve heard in years—but the clarity of the vision behind it. Every study, every dataset, every trial is grounded in a simple truth: the health of adults is built in childhood. If we want healthier communities, stronger economies, and longer, more productive lives, there is no more important investment than child health research.
Equally striking is the excellence in how these scientific stories are being told. The investigators here are not only advancing discovery; they are translating complex data into clear, human-centered narratives that resonate with funders, institutions, policymakers, and families. That kind of storytelling is essential if we want breakthrough science to become real-world impact.”
Jessica Snowden, MD, MS, MHPTT
Tennessee, United States
Another participant noted,
“I’m headed back home from Geneva reinvigorated by the best pediatric scientific conference I’ve attended (until we do it again) the pediatric research for the future of children session organized by the European and North American Society for Pediatric Research.
To be in the room with so many iconic clinicians and investigators, to meet and collaborate with my heroes and the many wonderfully brilliant minds I’m discovering for the first time, was absolutely incredible. I am taking home so many ideas for how to do our job better, and starting points for new research. So much great stuff to do next!”
Thomas Wallach, MD
New York, United States
Poster sessions and panel discussion further reinforced the importance of supporting early- and mid-career investigators and created space for candid conversations and networking opportunities.
“It was an incredible opportunity for me, as a junior doctor and currently “mentorless” researcher, to participate in this conference and connect with pioneering researchers in their fields. Being accepted for a poster presentation felt like a true privilege, especially as the conference exceeded all my expectations.
As an aspiring paediatrician, I learned so much in just four days and felt genuinely inspired about my future plans—particularly my research career. While my initial interest was paediatrics as a whole, the meeting gave me a completely new perspective on immunology, a field in which I would very much like to grow and thrive as a researcher.”
Aslı Berru Arslan Özden, MD
Istanbul, Turkey
PRFC underscored that advancing child health globally required more than breakthrough findings. It requires intentional collaboration, storytelling, and a shared vision.
ESPR and SPR thank the PRFC Chair, Petra Hüppi, MD, and Co-Chairs, Lois K. Lee, MD, MPH, and Ann Chahroudi, MD, PhD, committees, speakers, and attendees for their contributions to a thoughtful meeting.
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About the Society for Pediatric Research
The Society for Pediatric Research® (SPR) encourages and supports pediatric research endeavors by cultivating a diverse network of child health researchers through collaboration, community, mentorship, and advocacy. Collaboration among SPR members creates meaningful progress for the future of children’s health. For more information, please visit www.societyforpediatricresearch.org, and follow us on LinkedIn, Bluesky, and X.
About the European Society for Paediatric Research
The European Society for Paediatric Research (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 mission is to develop and apply research to improve newborn and child health.
