2026 International Cancer Neuroscience Symposium

Additional dates:

Completed Event:	February 19, 2026	8:00 a.m. - 5:20 p.m.
Completed Event:	February 20, 2026	8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

The MD Anderson Cancer Neuroscience Program and Wiley Advanced Portfolio proudly announce the 3rd biennial Cancer Neuroscience Symposium happening in February 2026! This dynamic, three-day hybrid event will feature key insights and the latest, cutting-edge research from over 30 leading international experts. The goal of this regular event is to bring together world-renowned experts in oncology, neuroscience, cancer biology, neuro-immunology, and mental health to foster innovation in cancer research and patient care through a unique integration of these disciplines.

Building on the success of our previous meeting in 2024 (which attracted over 1,200 participants, see a summary here: https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108(24)00362-3) and fostering ongoing collaboration among our speakers, the 2026 Cancer Neuroscience Symposium will explore how the intersection of oncology and neuroscience shapes tumor development, progression, treatment, survivorship, and health outcomes. Multiple sessions are planned, focused on neurobiology, neurotoxicity, neuroimmunology, neural neoplasms, and neurobehavioral health, encompassing the comprehensive spectrum of the ever-growing field of cancer neuroscience.

This event will also feature abstract competitions, with awards presented during the 3-day symposium. Dr. Nicole Scheff from the University of Pittsburgh serves as the Chair of the Abstract Committee. See the “Abstracts” section below for details on submission dates, instructions, and more.

Several keynote speakers have been confirmed, including Dr. James P. Allison (2018 Nobel Prize winner in Physiology or Medicine), Dr. Michelle Monje, Dr. Sébastien Talbot, Dr. Douglas Hanahan, and Dr. Erica Sloan. In addition, various leaders in this field will participate to present on their latest research and insights. By bringing together scientific experts alongside oncologists, surgeons, neurologists, patients, and advocates, this symposium will spark transformative discussions and accelerate progress in this rapidly evolving field. The full agenda will be available closer to the event date.

We also have several exciting and fun events planned, including a performance by the world-famous “Checkpoints” band, featuring top scientists who perform, such as Dr. James Allison on the harmonica.

Join us for this premier scientific gathering in the world-famous Texas Medical Center and be part of a new era in Cancer Neuroscience!