Overview
The Young EMERG Symposium 2026 is a continuation of this unique gathering dedicated to young and early career researchers,
passionate about advancing research in myalgic encephelomyelitis (ME, sometimes referred to as ME/CFS) and post-viral illnesses.
This two-day meeting takes place in the inspiring setting of the Wellcome Genome Campus near Cambridge, UK.
This Symposium is a hybrid event organised by
Young EMERG - the European ME Research Group Young/Early Career Researcher network - and
UK charity Invest in ME Research.
The core aims of the Young EMERG Symposium 2026 are to:
- Build a strong, supportive international network of early career researchers
- Develop a shared understanding of the breadth of research areas within ME and related conditions
- Provide a platform for ECRs to present their work in a constructive environment
- Encourage collaboration and interdisciplinary exchange
- Support career development within biomedical and clinical research
The event offers a safe space for early career researchers to discuss challenges and gain valuable insights into pursuing ME research.
At the Young EMERG symposium, early career researchers are strongly encouraged to showcase their work through oral and poster presentations.
Programme
The workshop will take place from 09:00 - 17:00 on Monday 25 May - and from 09:00 until 17:00 on Tuesday 26 May.
The programme is currently in development, but confirmed elements include:
- Dedicated ECR oral presentation sessions
- Designated poster presentation sessions
- Invited speaker sessions covering the past, present, and future of ME/CFS research
- Career development talks and discussions
- Structured networking sessions
Registration
This is a ticket-only event.
Registration is by request.
Submit a registration request using the link below.
Once eligibility is confirmed, you will receive an email confirming your attendance.
Eligibility for registration requires current enrolment as an undergraduate, master's, PhD or medical student,
or post-doc, along with affiliation to a recognised research institute, university or hospital.
Unsure if you are eligible? Contact us to enquire using the link below.
Hybrid Format
The symposium will be delivered in a hybrid format.
Please note:
- Poster presentations will not be available to virtual attendees.
- Not all sessions are compatible with virtual delivery.
- Virtual participants will therefore have access to a reduced agenda.
We strongly encourage in-person attendance where possible to maximise networking and engagement opportunities.
Registration Fees
The Young EMERG Symposium is arranged and funded by the UK charity Invest in ME Research.
Please note:
- Attendance is free of charge for approved registrants.
- Participants are responsible for covering the cost of any arranged post-workshop evening meal and activities organised by the Young EMERG committee (see Post-Workshop Activities below).
In person registration deadline: close of business
Virtual attendance registration deadline: close of business
30 April 2026
10 May 2026
Abstract Submission for the Young EMERG Symposium
A central aim of the Young EMERG Symposium is to build a connected and collaborative community of early career researchers, and to develop a shared understanding of the diverse research areas within ME and related illnesses.
To support this goal, we kindly ask all participants to contribute in some way to the scientific programme.
You are warmly encouraged to:
- Submit an abstract for an oral presentation, or
- Submit an abstract for a poster presentation, or
- If you are at an early stage and do not yet have data to present, take part in a dedicated introduction session, where new researchers can briefly introduce themselves, their interests, and their future research plans.
We recognise that attendees will be at different stages of their careers, and we want this to be a supportive and inclusive environment. Whether you are presenting data or simply introducing your research interests, your contribution is an important part of building our network and strengthening the future of ME research together.
Please submit your abstract to info@youngemerg.com.
Abstract submission deadline: 30 April 2026.
Post-Workshop Activities
Young EMERG will also organise optional social activities, including:
- A local pub quiz
- A group trip to Cambridge
These informal events are designed to further strengthen connections within the early career research community.
2026 Conference Week Events
The Young EMERG Symposium forms part of International ME Conference Week (25–29 May 2026).
Additional events during the week include:
-
27–29 May – Research Colloquium (BRMEC15)
An international biomedical colloquium where researchers and clinicians share confidential data, refine hypotheses, and develop research collaborations. -
29 May – International ME Conference (IIMEC18)
An international conference for clinicians, researchers, and other professionals focusing on the latest biomedical findings and their clinical application.
To register interest in these additional events, please visit the International ME Conference Week page.
Venue
The symposium will take place at the Hinxton Hall Conference Centre, located on the Wellcome Genome Campus, between London and Cambridge.
Hinxton Hall Conference Centre combines stunning contemporary architecture and state-of-the-art facilities with a Grade II* listed country house, all set within a beautiful 100-acre rural estate bordering the River Cam.
The venue is:
- Close to Cambridge
- A short drive from London Stansted Airport
- Directly accessible from central London via train to Stansted
Its setting alongside world-leading genomics research institutions provides an ideal environment for collaboration, focused discussion, and innovation.
Sponsorship
We welcome expressions of interest from organisations and individuals who wish to support the Young EMERG Symposium through sponsorship.
Sponsorship helps us:
- Maintain free access for early career researchers
- Enhance networking and collaborative opportunities
- Support the next generation of ME/CFS researchers
If you are interested in sponsoring this event, please contact us for further details.
Past Workshops
Past early career researcher workshops have been hosted in both the UK and US, by Invest in ME Research and NIH, respectively.
Past workshops can be viewed via the link below.