FCEs offer unique access to a wide range of trainee development opportunities designed specifically for trainees, as well as translational researchers and clinicians. Through these programs, participants gain valuable skills, mentorship, and networking experiences that support their professional growth and advance translational science.
FCE Events and Activities
Annual FCE Events
Below is a list of key FCE events held annually during the week of the FOCIS Annual Meeting. These events provide important forums for collaboration, learning, and sharing cutting-edge research within the FCE community.
The FCE Events below are invitation only. Please email the FOCIS Office (info@focisnet.org) with any questions.
FCEs
FCE Directors Meeting
Held annually during the week of the FOCIS Annual Meeting, the FCE Directors Meeting brings together all FCE Directors and/or Associate Directors to share best practices, discuss FCE business, and explore potential collaborative projects. In addition, the meeting provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen partnerships and align strategic goals across centers. Together, these efforts foster a collaborative environment that benefits the entire FCE community.
In 2026: Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the San Francisco Marriott Marquis in San Francisco, California.
Invitation Only
FCE Fusion
There is also the FCE Fusion event that is an invitation-only networking event. Specifically designed to foster professional development and collaboration, the event features a moderated poster session, during which trainees present their research. Meanwhile, they receive valuable mentoring and constructive feedback from FCE Directors, helping to guide their future work. Furthermore, Trainee participation is limited to FCE Fusion travel award recipients.
In 2026: Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the San Francisco Marriott Marquis in San Francisco, California.
Invitation Only
Trainee Development and Travel Awards
FOCIS awards travel grants on a competitive basis to FCE trainees who demonstrate a desire to attend the U.S. Advanced Course and/or the FCE Fusion.
Typically, the FOCIS office emails FCE Directors approximately 6 months before each event. This email serves as a ‘call for nominees’ for the travel award opportunity. Using their own selection criteria, FCE Directors may submit one or more candidates via an online nomination form. Then, FOCIS will contact the candidates and request they complete an online application.
The U.S. Advanced Course FCE Travel Grant Program
FOCIS awards travel grants on a competitive basis to FCE trainees who demonstrate a desire to attend the U.S. Advanced Course. However, the value of the travel award is dependent on the FCE location
In addition, detailed information regarding the nomination, application, and notification processes—as well as deadlines—is available on the FCE website. This information is also communicated directly via email to FCE Directors and Associate Directors to ensure timely awareness and participation.
2026: March 9-11, 2026 | Aurora, CO | The Benson Hotel & Faculty Club
FCE Fusion
Similarly, FOCIS awards travel grants on a competitive basis to FCE trainees who demonstrate a desire to attend the FCE Fusion event at the FOCIS Annual Meeting. Recipients of the travel grant receive complimentary registration to the Annual Meeting.
- Trainees receive $100 (local recipient) $500 (North American recipient) or $1,000 (International recipient) in travel support along with one complimentary registration to the Annual Meeting.
Furthermore, detailed information about the nomination, application, and notification processes can all be requested by emailing the FOCIS Office at info@focisnet.org. This information is also distributed via email to all FCE Directors and Associate Directors to facilitate participation.
2026: Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the San Francisco Marriott Marquis.
The C. Garrison Fathman Fellows Fund (CGFFF)
The CGFFF enables trainees and fellows to attend FOCIS annual meetings, educational courses and participate in exchange programs. Ever since founding and serving as the first President of FOCIS, Dr. Fathman has shown a continued commitment to providing high-quality education for fellows and trainees throughout the immunology community. In recognition of his dedication, the FOCIS Board of Directors established the C. Garrison Fathman Fellows Fund in the summer of 2012.
FOCIS Annual Meeting
Overview
FOCIS is THE meeting in translational immunology. Here, leading clinicians and researchers deliver the latest breakthroughs across immune-mediated diseases, helping you stay ahead of the curve
By focusing on molecular pathways and their implications in human disease provides the unique opportunity for innovative thinking and apply ideas from the pathologies of other diseases to uncover novel solutions to challenges in the diseases you study.
Abstract Submission
Submit your research to share with leading clinicians and immunology experts at the FOCIS Annual Meeting. Both FCE Directors and trainees are encouraged to present their most novel work through Thematic Symposia, Oral Abstract Sessions, or evening Poster Sessions.
Notably, FCE Fusion Trainee Travel Award recipients are required to submit an abstract for the FOCIS 2026 Annual Meeting. Abstracts are then reviewed for oral or poster presentation and scheduled accordingly. Additionally, the award recipient’s abstract is automatically included in the FCE Fusion poster session.
Collaboration Opportunities
Collaborate with the leading academic medical centers within the FCE community. By partnering with these prestigious institutions, you gain access to a wealth of expertise and resources that can accelerate your research and innovation.
Additionally, explore available industry collaborations and partnership opportunities that foster cross-sector engagement and drive translational progress.
Furthermore, stay informed by viewing the latest FCE news , where you can find current and upcoming opportunities to connect, collaborate, and contribute to advancing the field.