2025 SPP-ARC Ignites Innovation Retreat
Welcome to the 2025 SPP-ARC Ignites Innovation Retreat!
Organized by Striving for Pandemic Preparedness - The Alberta Research Consortium (SPP-ARC), this retreat brings together Canadian experts to reflect on research progress and foster collaborations in the field of pandemic preparedness.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Questions? Contact us at spparc@ualberta.ca.
Abstract Submission
ABSTRACT SUBMISSIONS HAVE CLOSED
Ready to share your research? Submit your abstract now!
Abstracts required for external professors and all trainees; optional for SPP-ARC professors; not required for invited speakers/SAB/delegates.
Accepted presenters receive complimentary registration, accommodation, and meals.
Deadline for abstract submissions: October 1st, 2025
Acceptance notification: October 15th, 2025
Agenda
The final program for the 2025 SPP-ARC Ignites Innovation Retreat is now available
TBD
Free Time
Oral Session 5 - Infrastructure & Technologies
Invited Speakers
We are pleased to announce our distinguished invited speakers for the upcoming SPP-ARC 2025 annual retreat!
Dr. Kanta Subbarao
Prof. & CERC, Université Laval
Preparing for Emerging Infections and Future Pandemics
Charu Kaushic, PhD
Scientific Director, Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)-Institute of Infection and Immunity
Investing in Pandemic Preparedness: Perspectives from CIHR
Dr. Michael Norris
Assistant Professor, University of Toronto
Paramyxovirus Assembly: A Blueprint for Broadly Active Pandemic Countermeasures.
Dr. Kalyan Das
Prof. & CERC, University of Alberta
Cryo-EM for Antiviral Drug Design and Pandemic Preparedness
Dr. Volker Gerdts
Director, Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) at University of Saskatchewan
Responding to Emerging Diseases- Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza as an Example
Philip Dormitzer, MD, PhD
Founder and President, Dormitzer Biologics
Trends in Innovative Vaccine Design - RSV and COVID-19 Vaccines
Dr. Matthew S. Miller
Prof., McMaster University
Next-Generation Active and Passive Vaccination Strategies for Respiratory Pathogens with Pandemic Potential
Kasondra White
A/Director General, Policy and Partnerships, Health Emergency Readiness Canada, Innovation Science and Economic Development Canada
Health Emergency Readiness Canada: Growing Domestic Capabilities for Health Security
Gayle Piat, RQAP-GLP, RAC (CAN)
Director, Alberta Cell Therapy Manufacturing (ACTM) at University of Alberta
Bridging Innovation to Patients: Developing Aseptic Fill Finish Capacity in Canada
Selena M. Sagan, PhD
Prof. & CRC, University of British Columbia
A Twist in the Tail: Optimizing mRNA Termini for Improved Protein Production
Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity
The retreat will be held at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, a hub for innovation located in the heart of Banff National Park. Surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains, the Banff Centre offers state-of-the-art facilities, comfortable accommodations, and a uniquely scenic setting ideal for reflection, collaboration, and creativity. Learn more at Banff Centre
Resources- Banff National Park
Banff National Park, Canada’s first and oldest national park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, turquoise glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife. Make the most of your conference experience by exploring the surrounding area.
Note: If you choose to drive, you will need to purchase a Banff National Park pass. You can do so online (here) or when you enter the park. Your day pass or temporary discovery pass must be printed and displayed on the dash of your vehicle while traveling in the national park.
Preview Document
FAQs
How do external participants apply?
To apply, participants must submit an abstract using the form provided here. Selected applicants will be invited to register.
Is there a template for abstract submissions?
Yes. You can download the required abstract template from the submission form. Completed abstracts should be emailed to spparc@ualberta.ca
Want to learn more about SPP-ARC?
Visit our official website to explore our initiatives, research priorities, and ongoing collaborations.
Register