image: The ISSCR International Symposium in Kyoto, Japan in October 2026 will highlight new research advances made possible through the discovery of iPSC technology.
Credit: Kyoto University
World-renowned stem cell scientists will gather in Kyoto, Japan for the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) International Symposium, 20 Years of iPSC Discovery: A Celebration and Vision for the Future. Professor Shinya Yamanaka, who earned the 2012 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his breakthrough iPSC discovery, is leading the scientific program for the historic event.
“Twenty years ago, the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) opened a new era in biomedical research,” said Shinya Yamanaka, Kyoto University, Japan. “It has not only expanded our understanding of cellular reprogramming but has also paved the way for revolutionary treatments, personalized medicine, and the potential to unlock cures for previously untreatable diseases. As we celebrate this milestone and host an ISSCR International Symposium showcasing new achievements based on the discovery of iPSCs, we are reminded of the transformative power of scientific curiosity and the endless possibilities it holds for improving human health.”
ISSCR International Symposia bring together researchers from around the world to discuss and share the latest advancements in stem cell research, often focusing on specific topics within the field such as regenerative medicine, organoids, AI, or ethical considerations, with the goal of fostering collaboration and advancing knowledge in stem cell science. The symposia complement the hallmark ISSCR Annual Meeting, offering unmatched opportunities to present novel science and to build relationships with research communities worldwide.
Organizers of the October 2026 event, 20 Year of iPSC Discovery: A Celebration and Vision for the Future include: Jun Takahashi, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Japan, Kyoto University, Japan, Takanori Takebe, Cincinnati Children's Hospital and Medical Center, USA, Christine Mummery, Leiden University Medical Centre, Netherlands, and Emily Titus, Notch Therapeutics, Canada, are the co-organizers of this event chaired by Dr. Yamanaka.
Adding to the celebration, Stem Cell Reports, the ISSCR’s open access, peer reviewed journal, will publish a special issue to commemorate breakthrough achievements and highlight new research advances made possible through the discovery of iPSC technology.
Be among the first to see the program by signing up for alerts. Journalists who are interested in attending the meeting should email Kym Kilbourne at kkilbourne@isscr.org.
About the International Society for Stem Cell Research (www.isscr.org)
With nearly 5,000 members from more than 80 countries, the International Society for Stem Cell Research is the preeminent global, cross-disciplinary, science-based organization dedicated to stem cell research and its translation to the clinic. The ISSCR mission is to promote excellence in stem cell science and applications to human health.