Cancer Research Day is an event that aims to increase understanding and awareness of Ellis Fischel Cancer Center's research endeavors and encourage collaboration with other cancer research institutions in Missouri.
Poster Presentation Submissions
Students, fellows, and faculty conducting cancer research throughout The University of Missouri System institutions are eligible to present their current cancer research efforts at The MU Ellis Fischel Cancer Research Day.
In 2026, Cancer Research Day will be held Tuesday, April 28.
Registration deadline is April 17, 2026.
At Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, our Research Administration supports a forward-thinking ecosystem where collaboration drives innovation. We are dedicated to building a research environment that nurtures cross-disciplinary partnerships, fosters mentorship, and supports the next generation of cancer researchers.
As part of this mission, Cancer Research Day was created to strengthen collaboration across departments and disciplines. This annual event brings together faculty, clinicians, students, and research staff to connect beyond traditional silos, sharing discoveries, exploring new ideas, and identifying opportunities for joint impact. By showcasing the breadth of cancer-related work across our institution, Cancer Research Day plays a vital role in advancing EFCC’s vision of integrated, translational research that improves outcomes for patients and communities alike.
EFCC’s research strategy is organized across four key thematic domains that reflect our commitment to multidisciplinary cancer science:
- Cancer Prevention, Control, Outreach & Engagement Program (CPCOEP)
- Theranostics & Molecular Imaging Program (TMIP)
- Immunomodulation & Regenerative Medicine Program (IRMP)
- Comparative Oncology & Translational Medicine Program (COTMP)
These research areas provide a strategic framework for aligning discovery, clinical relevance, and community impact by bridging foundational science with real-world cancer care solutions.
Abstract call deadline is Tuesday, March 16, 2026
About
The MU Ellis Fischel Cancer Research Day is a single-day event showcasing current cancer research projects throughout all disciplines within the University of Missouri System.
The MU research community will have the opportunity to share its work in an atmosphere of learning and collaboration throughout the day via:
- Poster Sessions
- Three-Minute Talks (invited from abstract submissions)
- Keynote Speaker
- Special Guest
In addition to the poster competition, the judges select abstracts to be presented during the oral presentations from among graduate students, post¬ doctoral fellows and junior faculty members.
Explore the exhibitor area to connect with industry leaders, discover innovative solutions, and gain valuable insights to enhance your work. Don’t miss this opportunity to network, ask questions, and experience the latest advancements firsthand! Located in the Patient Centered Care Learning Center Atrium.
Visit the poster area to explore groundbreaking research, engage with presenters, and gain fresh insights into emerging trends. It's a great opportunity to ask questions, exchange ideas, and deepen your knowledge in an interactive setting! Located in the Acuff Atrium
Stop by the services area to discover resources, tools, and support designed to enhance your experience. Connect with experts who can help you navigate offerings tailored to your needs!
Agenda at a Glance
Day One – April 27, 2026
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm | Registration & Check-in / Poster & Exhibitor Set Up
Participants arrive, check in, and prepare for the evening program. During this time, poster presenters and exhibitors will set up their displays in preparation for the opening poster session and reception.
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm | Welcome Reception, Poster Session A & Judging
Join colleagues, collaborators, and community partners for the opening reception. Poster Session A will showcase innovative cancer research from faculty, trainees, and students while judges circulate to evaluate presentations.
5:30 pm – 6:00 pm | Missouri Cancer Registry Annual Advisory Board Meeting (LC230)
This open meeting brings together researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals interested in cancer surveillance and data. The Missouri Cancer Registry Advisory Board will discuss statewide cancer trends, reporting priorities, and opportunities for collaboration.
6:30 pm | Day One Adjourns
Formal programming concludes for the evening.
Day Two – April 28, 2026
7:30 am – 8:00 am | Doors Open
Morning check-in begins as attendees gather and prepare for the day’s scientific sessions.
8:00 am – 9:30 am | Poster Session B & Judging
The second poster session highlights additional research contributions from across disciplines. Judges will evaluate posters based on scientific merit, innovation, and presentation.
9:30 am – 9:55 am | Welcome Address – Dr. Gerhard Hildebrandt
University of Missouri Ellis Fischel Cancer Center
Dr. Hildebrandt will provide opening remarks highlighting recent achievements at the Ellis Fischel Cancer Center and outlining the vision for advancing cancer research, clinical care, and collaboration across Missouri.
10:00 am – 10:45 am | Keynote Lecture – Dr. Harikrishna Nakshatri
Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center
Harikrishna Nakshatri Indiana University
Dr. Nakshatri will present insights from his research on cancer biology and translational science, emphasizing how discoveries in the laboratory can lead to improved diagnostics and treatments for patients.
10:45 am – 11:00 am | Break – Morning Refreshments
A short break for networking and refreshments.
11:00 am – 11:45 am | Featured Lecture – Dr. Amy LeBlanc
National Cancer Institute – Center for Cancer Research
Amy LeBlanc NCI: Center for Cancer Research
Dr. LeBlanc will discuss innovative research approaches and collaborative efforts that advance cancer discovery and therapeutic development, including comparative oncology and translational research initiatives.
11:45 am – 1:00 pm | Lunch & Learn – Dr. Chi-Ren Shyu
MU Institute for Data Science and Informatics
Chi-Ren Shyu University of Missouri
Over lunch, Dr. Shyu will explore how artificial intelligence, data science, and advanced analytics are transforming cancer research, enabling new discoveries from large and complex biomedical datasets.
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm | Poster Session C & Judging
The final poster session offers additional opportunities to explore emerging research, engage with investigators, and learn about innovative projects from students, trainees, and faculty.
2:30 pm – 2:50 pm | Policy & Advocacy Update – Emily Kalmer
American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
Emily Kalmer American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
This session highlights current developments in cancer policy, funding priorities, and advocacy efforts that shape the future of cancer research and patient care.
2:55 pm – 3:15 pm | Research Infrastructure Presentation – Dr. Raghuraman Kannan
University of Missouri Shared Resources and Core Instruments
Raghuraman Kannan University of Missouri
Dr. Kannan will provide an overview of the advanced shared resources and core instrumentation that support cutting-edge cancer research at the University of Missouri.
3:15 pm – 3:35 pm | Break – Afternoon Refreshments
An afternoon break for networking and refreshments.
3:45 pm – 4:45 pm | Three Minute Talks (3MT) Competition
Trainees will present their work in a fast-paced format designed to communicate complex scientific ideas in just three minutes. This competition celebrates clarity, creativity, and impactful research.
5:00 pm – 5:30 pm | Awards Ceremony
Recognition of outstanding posters, presentations, and contributions to Cancer Research Day.
Abstract and Poster Guidelines
The poster presentation is held in two sessions. Detailed instructions are emailed to authors of accepted abstracts. Poster set up 7:00-7:50 a.m. The following guidelines are to be followed for posters:
- Abstracts are limited to 525 words or less.
- Tables and illustrations should be kept relatively simple.
- Type size, lines, and symbols in illustrations should be sufficiently large and bold to be comprehensible from a viewing distance of up to 6 feet.
- Each poster should contain a top panel containing the title of the abstract and the names of the authors.
- Illustrative material should be arranged in a logical order from top-down and left-to-right.
- The poster board assigned to each presenter has a usable area of 5 feet in width and 3 feet in height.
- Easels and pushpins will be provided.
FAQs
Below are general questions we frequently receive about Cancer Research Day. If you have any questions that are not answered here, please email dianicsr@umsystem.edu.
Who is eligible to present?
Students, fellows, and faculty conducting cancer research at all University of Missouri System institutions.
How do I submit my abstract?
Submit your abstract through the submission link by March 16, 2026.
How do I register?
Use our registration link.
What are poster board dimensions?
Poster board dimensions should not exceed; Height = 3 feet and Width = 5 feet
How much does it cost?
Registration and participation are free.
Will it be in-person or virtual?
This is an in-person event.
Where should I park?
Please use the metered parking areas and download the Flowbird app or pay at a kiosk. Price per hour is $1.25.
What if I have any other questions?
If you have any questions, please email dianicsr@umsystem.edu.
Awards
2025 Cancer Research Day Award Categories
- Best Abstract
- Best Poster
- Best Overall: Director's Distinguished Award
