Abstract Submission Deadline: 16 March, 2026
Dear Colleagues,
We cordially invite you to join the 28th International Workshop on Kaposi’s Sarcoma Herpesvirus & Related Agents, to be held at the Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB) in Hamburg, Germany, from June 28 to July 1, 2026. Continuing its longstanding tradition, the Workshop will serve as the premier forum for sharing and discussing the latest advances in research on KSHV and related agents.
The opening day will feature a session focused on current clinical and translational challenges in the field, underscoring the importance of linking basic and patient-oriented research. The scientific program will cover a broad spectrum of fundamental and translational aspects, including virus–host interactions, viral replication and latency, immune responses and immune evasion, mechanisms of pathogenesis, and advances in clinical management and therapeutic strategies. READ MORE
We warmly invite participants to submit abstracts for oral or poster presentations before the March 16th submission deadline. In keeping with the Workshop’s interactive and collaborative spirit, the presentation of unpublished and emerging research is especially encouraged. The Workshop has long been recognized as an excellent opportunity for trainees at all levels to present their work, build networks, and engage with senior scientists and clinicians. There will be no invited speakers or lectures; all submitted contributions will be equally considered by the Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC).
The meeting will take place at the CSSB, a leading interdisciplinary research center dedicated to understanding biological processes at the molecular and cellular level. Located on the DESY campus, the CSSB provides a dynamic environment for cross-disciplinary exchange between physicists, structural biologists, virologists, and computational scientists. Complementing the scientific program, a social highlight will take place on June 30, featuring a charter boat tour through Hamburg Harbour, followed by a gala dinner at Café Alte Liebe at the Maritime Museum, situated in the heart of Hamburg’s HafenCity.
Beyond the Workshop, Hamburg offers a wealth of cultural and recreational opportunities. Known for its historic harbor, lively neighborhoods, and rich musical and culinary scene, the city is especially vibrant in early summer. Participants may enjoy harbor walks, Alster lake activities, visits to world-class museums, or concerts at the Elbphilharmonie, which hosts an extensive summer program. With long daylight hours and numerous outdoor events, Hamburg provides an inviting backdrop to extend your stay and explore the city alongside colleagues and friends.
Sincerely,
KSHV 2026 Local Organizing Committee
Abstract Submission Topics:
- Virus-Host Interaction
- Viral Entry and Egress
- Viral Pathogenesis and Oncogenesis
- Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses and Immune Evasion
- Lytic Cycle/Viral Replication/Reactivation
- Vaccines, Therapeutics, Diagnosis and Clinical Care
- Mechanisms of Latency
- Epidemiology, Disease Staging and Natural History
- KSHV-Related Viruses
Trainee Abstract Awards Application with the Online Abstract Submission – 16 March!
On behalf of the KAPOSI’S SARCOMA HERPESVIRUS (KSHV) AND RELATED AGENTS ASSOCIATION, we look forward to awarding a number of abstract award registration fee waivers for qualifying trainees (graduate students, postdocs and pre-doctoral study technicians working in academic or government labs). These awards will be dependent on the outcome of applications for funding that are still pending. Abstract award registration waivers will be distributed based on the ranking of the abstracts by the scientific advisory committee and will prioritize current graduate students, followed by other trainees. All graduate students, postdocs and pre-doctoral study technicians working in academic or government labs submitting an abstract wishing to apply for a Trainee Abstract Award must upload a pdf document from their advisor or institution verifying their training status at the time of abstract submission. ONLY submissions with the appropriate documentation included with the submission, will be considered for Trainee Abstract Awards.
Delegates who would like to present their work at the meeting as a poster or oral presentation, are invited to submit an abstract for consideration by the Local Organizing and Scientific Advisory Committees. Abstracts are accepted on a wide range of themes according to the abstract submission topics listed above.