Three days of cutting-edge stem cell science, exchange and community in Berlin
From 9 – 11 Sept. 2026, the 14th GSCN Conference brought the German and international stem cell community together at the Max Delbrück Center in Berlin. Over three intensive days, the conference showcased the remarkable breadth and rapid progress of the field – from fundamental mechanisms of pluripotency and development to organoids, hematopoiesis, disease modeling, computational stem cell biology and regenerative therapies.
International keynote speakers Paresh Vyas, James M. Wells, Stepan Jerabek, Jason Spence, and Takanori Takebe provided outstanding perspectives on topics ranging from stem cell niches in myeloid cancer and human organogenesis to genome editing, intestinal organoids and the engineering of complex miniature organs. The Presidential Symposium added another highlight, with Janet Rossant addressing the scientific and ethical questions surrounding embryos and embryo models.
A particular focus was on the GSCN 2026 Awardees: Jesse Veenvliet, recipient of the Young Investigator Award, presented his work on embryo models and developmental principles; Annika Zink, recipient of the Publication of the Year Award, showed how pluripotent stem-cell-based screening can open new therapeutic avenues for mitochondrial disease; and Maike Sander, recipient of the Hilde Mangold Award, closed the scientific program with an inspiring lecture on engineered stem cell islet organoids and diabetes research.
But the GSCN Conference is about more than lectures. Two packed poster sessions, parallel scientific sessions, the industry exhibition and countless discussions created space for new ideas, collaborations and encounters across disciplines and career stages. The Get-together and the GSCN Networking Event brought this vibrant community together beyond the lecture halls.
Three days in Berlin made one thing very clear: stem cell research is moving rapidly – towards increasingly sophisticated human models, deeper mechanistic understanding and new translational possibilities. And it thrives on exchange, collaboration and a strong scientific community.
Thank you to all speakers, chairs, poster presenters, exhibitors, supporters and participants who made the 14th GSCN Conference such an inspiring meeting.
See you next year in Frankfurt am Main for the 15th GSCN Conference, 22–24 September 2027!