Social Events
Social Events
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Opening Reception
Reconnect with old friends, meet new colleagues, and kick off the conference at our Opening Reception, held immediately following the Keynote lectures at the Katz Group Centre for Pharmacy and Health Research (KATZ).
As part of the evening’s activities, attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a guided tour of the University of Alberta’s Cryo-EM Facility, led by the Director of High Res Cryo-EM Zhijie Li and Dr. Justin Di Trani, offering a behind-the-scenes look at state-of-the-art cryogenic electron microscopy instrumentation and research.
Wednesday, June 17th, 2026
Informal Postdoc meet and greet event
Organized by: TBD
Did you ever feel out of place because you were suddenly no longer a student, but not truly part of the staff either? Did you have to deal with stressful short-term contracts, or the excitement (and impostor syndrome…) of bringing to life a whole project of your own making, almost but not quite like a PI?
This event aims to make postdocs feel welcome, heard, and understood during this unique and transient phase of their career. Postdocs will be able to discuss with other postdocs, but also with PIs who can answer their questions, alleviate their concerns, and help them navigate through life post-PhD in a friendly setting. Simply grab your lunch and meet with us. More details to be provided.
When: Wednesday, June 17th, 12:00 PM
Location: PCL Lounge in the Centennial Centre for Interdisciplinary Sciences
Wednesday, June 17th, 2026
Student Mixer and ASM Student Network Event
Organized by: CSM-SCM2026 University of Alberta Student Volunteers
Student Mixer: Looking for an evening in Edmonton to connect with fellow trainees in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere? Join us at the University Club for an evening of great food, lively conversation, and science-themed fun. Enjoy a complimentary drink, test your knowledge with microbiology and pop-culture trivia, and meet peers from across Canada in a friendly networking setting designed just for students.
The ASM Student Network event will be held within the CSM Student Mixer. A speed dating style, informal networking event which aims to bring students and post docs closer to established-career scientists. This is a great opportunity to get some valuable face time with leaders in various microbiology-related fields from Canada and the US over some drinks and food. This event is sponsored in part by the American Society for Microbiology, and is organized by the ASM Student Ambassador. Tickets to the CSM Student Mixer have to be purchased to be able to access and participate in the ASM Student Networking Event.
Location: The University Club of the U of A, starting at 6:00 PM
Friday, June 19, 2026
CSM 2026 President Banquet
A cherished CSM tradition, the President’s Banquet is an evening dedicated to celebrating our community and marking the official transition of leadership as we thank the outgoing CSM President and welcome the incoming President. Held at the stunning Edmonton Convention Centre overlooking the North Saskatchewan River Valley, the evening will feature a formal dinner, the presentation of student and postdoctoral poster and oral symposium awards, and an opportunity to recognize excellence across our society.
Join colleagues, mentors, trainees, and friends for one final evening together at CSM 2026 — a night of celebration, connection, and community. And yes, bring your dancing shoes… it wouldn’t be a CSM Banquet without a great party to close out the conference in style!
Location: Edmonton Convention Centre
