2026 VCP International Scientific and Community Summit

Name: 2026 VCP International Scientific and Community Summit
Start: 2026-07-22T21:00:00Z
End: 2026-07-26T01:30:00Z
Location: Hyatt Centric Midtown Atlanta

Hyatt Centric Midtown Atlanta

July 22-25, 2026

Registration Abstract Submission

Join Us for a Groundbreaking Gathering

We invite scientists, researchers, and patients to come together for 2026 VCP International Scientific and Community Summit, a premier summit dedicated to advancing VCP-associated multisystem proteinopathy (aka VCP disease) research and strengthening our community.

Building on the tremendous success of our scientific conference at Caltech in February 2024, we're bringing together both the research and patient communities under one roof. For our patients and families, this marks our first gathering since July 2023 in Las Vegas - and we couldn't be more excited to reunite.

For Scientists & Researchers

Engage with colleagues at the forefront of VCP research. Share insights, discuss cutting-edge findings, and collaborate on the latest developments in VCP disease research and treatment. Submit your interest to be a speaker or share a poster on our Abstract Submission page.

For Patients & Families

Learn directly from leading researchers about the science behind VCP disease. Participate in patient-centered discussions addressing the real-world challenges and topics that matter most to those living with VCP.

Join us at the Hyatt Centric Midtown Atlanta in Midtown Atlanta!

This trendy neighborhood hotel is in the heart of Midtown Atlanta. We have a block of rooms, including all of the hotel's ADA rooms. The base hotel rate is 159.00 USD per night and includes breakfast.

Use this link to secure your room: https://go.hyatt.com/link/v2/eae__RSWr24xNgIhfc-Waeb6kHHbZs_4cEdnB

The hotel is easily accessible by MARTA from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The hotel is a 4 min walk (0.2 miles) from the Midtown MARTA station. Self Parking is 28.00 USD per day and Valet Parking is 40.00 USD per day.

Stroll through nearby Piedmont Park or Central Park, learn more about the nation’s history at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and check out local attractions like Georgia Tech, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Georgia Aquarium, and other great places to shop, eat and hang out.

Reservation Link

Conference Agenda

Days 1 and 2 feature cutting-edge scientific sessions designed for researchers, with a special collaborative afternoon session on Day 2 that brings scientists, clinicians, and patients together to drive meaningful dialogue and shared priorities. Day 3 focuses entirely on patient-centered topics and community discussions.

Don't Miss Our Annual Cure VCP Disease Celebration!
Saturday Evening | BBQ, Brews & Bingo

For the past four years, this beloved tradition has brought our local community together for an evening of food, fun, and fellowship. We are excited to have our scientific and out of town patients and family members join us for barbecue, beverages, and bingo—it's the perfect way to celebrate our progress and connections.

We encourage everyone—scientists, patients, caregivers, and supporters—to join us for this unforgettable evening!

Learn more here: https://go.curevcp.org/2026atlanta

View Tentative Agenda

We're building upon the impact of the 2024 VCP International Scientific and the 2023 Connections Conferences!

Conference Organizers

We appreciate our team that is helping to plan this event.

Zollie Yavarow, PhD, MACure VCP Disease

In her role at Cure VCP Disease, Dr. Yavarow bridges the scientific and patient communities, expanding the organization's network of researchers, industry partners, and patient advocacy organizations to advance VCP research with both rigor and empathy. She earned both a PhD in Pharmacology and a Master of Arts in Bioethics and Science Policy from Duke University.

Meet the Scientific Session Chairs

Peter Shen, PhDAssociate Professor, University of Utah

Session 1: VCP Biochemistry and Structural Biology

Michelle Arkin, PhDProfessor and Chair of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, UCSF

Session 2: VCP Co-Factors and Protein Interactions

Tom Lloyd, MD, PhDChair of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine

Session 3: VCP Localization and Cellular Functions

Dale Martin, PhDAssociate Professor, University of Waterloo

Session 4: Understanding Multisystem Disease: VCP in Organ Systems

Chris Weihl, MD, PhDProfessor of Neurology, Washington University St. Louis

Session 5: Therapeutic Development in VCP-MSP

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to common questions about the conference.

Registration opens December 1, 2025. At that time, head over to our registration page, and complete the online form. Select your ticket type, provide the required information, and submit payment to secure your spot.

The conference schedule is available on the website. It includes a detailed list of sessions, workshops, keynote speakers, and networking events. Check the schedule regularly for updates and changes.

Yes, you can submit a presentation proposal during the open call for speakers. Visit the 'Abstract Submission' page on the website, and follow the submission guidelines provided.

Yes, we encourage participation as this drives collaboration and better understanding of the tremendous work being done. There is an extra charge for patients to attend Day 1 for food and beverage.