Poster abstract submission is open. Submit your work by January 7, 2026.

A poster presentation is more than just a display of text and figures—it’s a conversation starter. At the 67th Annual Drosophila Research Conference, poster sessions give you the chance to share your research story in a highly interactive way. Instead of delivering a one-way lecture, you stand by your poster and engage in discussions that can shape how your science evolves. Whether you’re just starting to shape your research, or have years of expertise, posters are an excellent way to foster collaboration and spark scientific breakthroughs. 

Why are poster abstracts important?

Posters are a space for sharing new ideas and preliminary data, even before publication. They let you test your hypotheses in a supportive environment and receive feedback that can sharpen your message. Because the format encourages extended back-and-forth dialogue, posters can be even more valuable than talks: they highlight what resonates, what needs more clarity, and how different audiences interpret your results. Within the Drosophila community, some of the most creative collaborations have started from poster conversations where there was time to dive deeply into the science.

Who will see your poster?

Everyone. Attendees from across subfields, journal editors and reviewers scouting for new work, and experts who can spot potential pitfalls before you submit a manuscript. That variety of visitors means the feedback you receive ranges from practical advice—“we tried this experiment and here’s what happened”—to fresh new perspectives you might not have considered.

Missed the abstract deadline? You can still present.

Don’t let the abstract deadline stop you. Even if you missed the November 13 deadline, poster presentations can still be submitted through January 7. The newest data is often the most exciting, and posters are still welcomed by the community. Submitting one shows initiative and ensures you’ll have the same opportunities for feedback, discussion, and networking. Plus, you can add it to your CV! Many successful collaborations have started at late posters, where people bring fresh results to the table.

What will you gain from presenting?

Poster sessions are opportunities to:

  • Hear the kinds of questions reviewers might ask—before peer review.
  • Gain new perspectives and ideas you hadn’t considered.
  • Get strategic advice on framing your story.
  • Pick up techniques and experimental tips from others in the community.
  • Build confidence in discussing your work with different audiences.
  • Connect with potential collaborators or employers, and meet a future mentor.

Poster sessions can open doors.

One poster presented by a staff scientist in our lab drew the attention of a journal editor, who spent 20 minutes in discussion at the poster board. The editor’s questions revealed exactly what additional experiments would make the work compelling for that journal. Those insights guided the next year of experiments and led to a successful publication.

Poster sessions aren’t just about presenting results—they’re about shaping the future of your research and building connections that last well beyond the meeting.

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