RNA in physiology and disease
An international conference from the Genetics Society

Details

When? Monday 7 September 2026
Where? The Frederick Douglass Centre, Helix Science Square, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5TG


Genetics Society Conference 2025

An international conference from the Genetics Society


This three-day conference will run from Monday 7th to Wednesday 9th September 2026 in Newcastle. 

Meeting background

RNA molecules are at the heart of normal physiological processes, and their dysregulation can drive a wide range of human diseases. This international meeting will bring together world-leading experts in various aspects of RNA function and regulation, showcasing the most recent advances in our understanding of RNA processes in normal physiology and disease. The conference will also provide a platform for early- and mid-career researchers to present their recent findings, discuss ideas, and form new connections and collaborations that will advance the field of RNA biology.

Programme

A draft programme is available to download. The conference will be organised into the following sessions:
  1. RNA in cell biology
  2. RNA in development and disease
  3. RNA in infection and immunity
  4. RNA in cancer biology
  5. RNA technologies and therapeutics

Invited speakers

David Tollervey - University of Edinburgh
Sebastian Fica - University of Oxford
Manuel Irimia - Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona
Edith Heard - The Francis Crick Institute
Donal O'Carroll - University of Edinburgh
Alfredo Castello - University of Glasgow
Sara Macias - University of Edinburgh
Maite Huarte - CIMA Institute, Pamplona
Michaela Frye - German Cancer Research Center
Olga Anczukow - The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine 
Cristian Bellodi - University of Copenhagen
Chuan He - University of Chicago
Jernej Ule - The Francis Crick Institute
Alena Shkumatava - University of Edinburgh

Organisers

David Elliott - University of Newcastle
Jonathan Pettitt - University of Aberdeen, G/S committee
Lovorka Stojic - Queen Mary University of London
Pawel Grzechnik - University of Manchester
Faraz Mardakheh - University of Oxford
Kamil Kranc - The Institute of Cancer Research

Abstracts

All abstracts will be considered. To submit an abstract please log into your mySociety member account, then follow the instructions at the bottom of this page to submit an abstract. Non-members, please create an account in mySociety and then follow the instructions as above. 

The deadline for abstract submission is midnight 30th June, and a decision will be made by 7th July. You can also download the abstract submission form in advance.

Registration instructions

Early bird registration deadline is 1st May. Please log into your mySociety member account (if you're not a member then you can create an account), then click ‘Book this event' at the top of this page. 

Cost 

When booking, there will be the option to book as a Genetics Society member or non-member, or student.
Please note that registration rates do not include the Gala dinner, this must be added on during booking.

Early bird rates will be available until 1st May 2026, when new rates will be released. 
Virtual attendance will not be available at this event.

Early Bird booking rates 
Member: £350
Non-member: £450
Student member: £300
Gala Dinner: £60

You can find information about the Genetics Society grants, including the Junior Scientist Conference grant, and Carers award, on our website.

Accommodation

Accommodation is not included in the conference registration cost, however NewcastleGateshead Initiative have provided preferential rates at local hotels. Please book these directly through their RNA in Physiology & Disease Conference 2026 website.
We recommend booking accommodation as soon as possible due to concurrent conferences and the Great North Run in Newcastle.

About the venue

The Frederick Douglass Centre is a 15 minute walk from Newcastle train station, the nearest airport is Newcastle International Airport. Further information on getting to the venue is available on the Newcastle Helix website.

NewcastleGateshead Initiative have secured a 25% off LNER discount, the promo PIN will be included in your conference booking confirmation email.

Special requirements

If you have accessibility requirements, please let us know during your booking, and we will do what we can to accommodate your needs.

Cancellation Policy 

Cancellation 10 working days before the start of the event = 100% refund less 25% administration fee
Cancellation between 5 - 10 working days before the start of the event = 50% refund less 25% administration fee
Cancellation less than 5 working days before, or non-attendance at the event = 0% refund

Sponsorship

With thanks to our Gold sponsors Novogene and BGI.
If you would like to sponsor this event, please see our sponsorship booklet, and contact Lucy Eckersley at events@rsb.org.uk or on 020 3925 3445.

Contact

This Genetics Society event is being supported by the Royal Society of Biology. Please direct all meeting or booking queries to Lucy Eckersley at events@rsb.org.uk or on 020 3925 3445.

Call for Papers
Guidance notes for submitting your Abstract:

1. Follow the link below entitled 'Click here for more information about submissions' to download an abstract submission form.

2. Fill in the form and upload using the Upload abstract button at the top of the page.

3. Delegates will be notified if their Abstracts have been accepted by the 7th July.

4. Please note: Once you select Save Changes to your Abstract, it will be submitted. You will then not be able to view, edit or delete it. If you want to make any changes contact Lucy Eckersley at events@rsb.org.uk or on 020 3925 3445.

Click here for more information about submissions

Code of Conduct

We are committed to ensuring equal opportunities and we support diversity throughout. We proactively promote a culture of inclusivity within our discipline and the broader community. It is vital that everyone attending is free from any form of harassment or discrimination, feels comfortable and safe, and has the opportunity for an enjoyable experience. By attending this event, you agree to abide by this code of conduct.