Close to 6,000 researchers in areas that include cell biology, biophysics, genetics, and immunology are headed to San Fran in the next few days to hear about the newest advancements in science, network with colleagues, and see the latest technologies in action.

Association:  American Society for Cell Biology

Conference: 2016 Annual Meeting

Venue: Moscone Center

Location: San Francisco

ASCB 2016 will kick off on Saturday with an evening keynote by Richard Lifton of the Rockefeller University on “Genes, Genomes, and the Future of Medicine.” Immediately following his talk, attendees will head to the opening night reception. Also on the agenda:

Speak out for science. ASCB’s One-Minute Elevator Speech Contest is pretty straightforward: Attendees have 60 seconds to sell their science in a selfie video that they can either record on their cellphones or at the ASCB booth. The winner takes home Bluetooth headphones, and his or her video, as well as those of the runners-up, will be shown in the Career Center Theater.

Get gifting. New this year, attendees can stop by Artists’ Row on the tradeshow floor. This showcase of cell-biology-themed arts and crafts is perfect for last-minute holiday gifts. Plus, attendees will have the chance to meet the artists behind these creations.

Teach the teachers. ASCB offers free registration to high school and community college teachers. And if that’s not enough, teachers are also encouraged to bring their students to Saturday events where high school students will explore the nearby Children’s Garden with a “fold-your-own microscope.” Meanwhile, undergraduates can hear how Janet Iwasa became an academic scientific animator.

Facebook and Twitter (#ASCB16) will have the most up-to-date meeting details.

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