Annual Research Symposium and Family Conference

The FPWR Family Conference is more than just a conference—it’s a place to find connection, understanding, and inspiration. Yes, you’ll hear from leading researchers and experts in Prader-Willi syndrome, but the experience goes far beyond traditional information sessions.

Here, you'll find a welcoming space where meaningful relationships are formed and strengthened.  Through interactive workshops and community-led discussions, you'll have the chance to learn from one another, share real-world strategies, and gain support in navigating the challenges you're facing today.

Expect to leave with the latest updates in research, treatments, and care—and with renewed energy, deeper connections, and a stronger sense of hope for the future.

Here's a sneak peek of just a few of our sessions and workshops you can expect:

• New Parent Workshop
• Advancing Treatments: PWS Clinical Trials
• Early Years Workshop
• Endocrine Recommendations
• Supporting Siblings Workshop
• What's Happening in PWS Research?
• Caring for the Caregiver
• Behavior Workshop (ages 5+)
• Dad Lab
• And More!

Join us on Wednesday, October 7, and Thursday, October 8, 2026, for our Annual PWS Research Symposium, highlighting the latest findings in Prader-Willi Syndrome research, and leave inspired with new research ideas and collaborations. Symposium topics will include genetics, molecular mechanisms, PWS models, metabolism, therapeutic development, clinical care, and clinical trials.

Interested in presenting at the symposium?

The Research Symposium will include both oral presentations and a poster session. Abstract submissions will be accepted until May 31st, 2026.  Please return later this year for abstract submission instructions. 

Travel Awards

FPWR is offering a limited number of $800 travel awards to trainees and junior faculty members presenting their research at FPWR’s 2026 PWS Research Symposium. Travel funds can be applied to the conference registration fee, airfare, hotel, meals, and ground transportation.  Travel Award applications will be accepted until May 31st, 2026.

Eligibility:

• Open to trainees (undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, medical residents, and clinical fellows) and junior faculty members (within 3 years of the start of a faculty position).
• No citizenship or residency requirements.
• Applicants must be the presenting author (oral or poster presentation).

Application instructions will be available soon.

Conference guests have access to special conference rates at the Marriott Philadelphia Downtown for $221/night until September 15, 2026.  Rooms are limited and will sell out! Reserve your room early to avoid disappointment. Your conference registration confirmation email will provide a link to our room block.

Limited financial assistance is available for families who otherwise cannot attend the conference. Email Melissa.Demand@fpwr.org for details.

Deadline for Registration: September 18th
Refund Policy: Tickets may be refunded up to 30 days prior to the conference, less a $25 processing fee.