Annual FIR Symposium

The FIR Symposium is an annual two-day program scheduled as the culminating event to our 6-week training course. Held at the MBL in Woods Hole, the Symposium features lectures from leading figures in reproductive sciences with presentations on current research topics from course students and FIR alumni representing previous classes. Each Symposium creates a new mix of students, alumni, faculty, and distinguished speakers, enabling world-class networking opportunities with leading figures in the field and among our trainees across class years. The Symposium provides a rich atmosphere combining focused reports on scientific inquiry with the camaraderie of the shared FIR experience. Numerous collaborations have emerged from these meetings. The Symposium has become known to FIRbees as “Everybody’s Favorite Meeting.”

This year we will welcome the class of 2023 to their first FIR Symposium while celebrating reunions for FIR2018 (5^th anniversary) and FIR2013 (10^th anniversary). We will also be welcoming the prestigious guests and speakers listed below.

FIRbees and FIR teaching assistants will be considered for presentations via abstract submission. Topics relevant to any area of reproduction and reflecting current research are encouraged. The Selection Committee will priority to abstracts from the 2018 & 2013 FIR classes, although all FIRbees doing outstanding science, presenting new research topics, first-time presenters, and/or those who have not presented at a recent Symposium will be considered.

Due to funding changes this year, FIR will provide full support (travel funding, lodging, and meals) for a limited number of alumni to attend the Symposium. To maximize attendance, we encourage everyone hoping to attend to submit abstracts. Please consider other funding sources, as you may be asked to cover all or part of your expenses. We aim to get as many of you as possible back together in Woods Hole for dynamic scientific exchange (and a bunch of fun). If you or your lab can contribute financial support, we ask you to please pursue it. As a reference point, costs to FIR for three nights at the hotel and your meals (not including the boat trip) are about $860.

2023 FIR Symposium Awards

Luigi Mastroianni Memorial Lecturer
Kay Elder, Ph.D.
Senior Research Scientist,
Bourn Hall Clinic
University of Cambridge, UK

Mike McClure Pioneer Award
Alan Herbison, Ph.D.
Professor of Neuroendocrinology
Wellcome Trust Senior Research Fellow
University of Cambridge, UK

Jerry Strauss Beacon Award
Joanne Richards, Ph.D.
Professor of Molecular and Cell Biology
Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center
Baylor College of Medicine