Location: Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC), Edinburgh, Skotsko
Date: 21.–24. dubna 2026
Project Manager: Marcela Rajtorová
INTRODUCTION
In the second half of April, the Scottish capital became the global epicentre of immunogenetics. The modern Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) hosted the 39th European Immunogenetics and Histocompatibility Conference (EFI 2026). Under the theme “From Genes to Grafts: Where Innovation Meets Medicine,” the event attracted top professionals from around the world. The combination of innovative science, intensive education, and unique Scottish hospitality confirmed the EFI Meeting as one of the most significant events in the medical congress calendar.
SCIENTIFIC PROGRAMME
The scientific programme featured five comprehensive plenary sessions covering the field’s key topics – from haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, cell therapies, and regenerative medicine to the role of HLA in disease. A joint session with the European Society for Organ Transplantation (ESOT), focused on increasing access to transplantation, garnered significant attention. Participants also benefited from practically oriented Teaching Sessions and presentations of the highest-rated abstracts. The agenda included multiple industry symposia and the presentation of prestigious field awards. The scientific segment was formally concluded on Friday with a closing lecture by Professor John Trowsdale on the cost of a comprehensive immune defence.
SOCIAL PROGRAMME AND NETWORKING
The organisers ensured that the outstanding scientific programme was complemented by unforgettable social experiences. The conference kicked off with Tuesday’s Opening Ceremony featuring a Traditional Scottish Welcome, followed by a Welcome Drink Reception in the EICC Exhibition Hall. The deliberately relaxed, music-free atmosphere provided the perfect setting to catch up with colleagues and discuss the initial scientific insights. On Thursday morning, active delegates took part in the GenDx Tulip Run. The 4–5 km charity run/walk started at the Meadows, with all proceeds – generously matched by GenDx – donated to the Calum’s Cabin charity. The highlight of the social programme was the Thursday Networking Event, held in the spectacular historic setting of the National Museum of Scotland. The museum’s elegant atmosphere provided a truly unique backdrop for forging new international collaborations.
CONCLUSION
The EFI 2026 Conference in Edinburgh was a clear testament to the dynamic advancement of immunogenetics. The success of the event lay not only in its exceptionally high-quality scientific content but also in its flawless organisation, allowing delegates to fully focus on science and networking.
Our sincere gratitude goes to all the speakers, active participants, and industry partners. Special appreciation is due to the GUARANT International organising team, led by Project Manager Marcela Rajtorová, for the flawless execution of this complex event. We are already looking forward to the 40th anniversary edition, which will take place in Essen, Germany.
The EFI 2026 Conference in Edinburgh was a clear testament to the dynamic advancement of immunogenetics. The success of the event lay not only in its exceptionally high-quality scientific content but also in its flawless organisation, allowing delegates to fully focus on science and networking.
Our sincere gratitude goes to all the speakers, active participants, and industry partners. Special appreciation is due to the GUARANT International organising team, led by Project Manager Marcela Rajtorová, for the flawless execution of this complex event. We are already looking forward to the 40th anniversary edition, which will take place in Essen, Germany.
