9th International Conference on the Epididymis

As a global forum for epididymal biology, we’re excited to bring together leading researchers, clinicians, and industry partners to share new discoveries and spark fresh collaborations across epididymal biology, male fertility, and reproductive health.

The conference is held only once every four years and offers a great opportunity for focused discussion, fresh perspectives, and energising conversations about the latest advances in our field. Following immediately after the Society for Reproductive Biology (SRB) Annual Conference in Sydney (1st – 4th Nov 2026).

Why not stretch your trip and enjoy two world-class reproductive‐science meetings back-to-back? From foundational biology to translational breakthroughs, the programme will showcase the very best in epididymal science. Expect keynote lectures, trips in our local vineyards, and plenty of opportunities to reconnect with old collaborators, and meet the new emerging scientists, right on Newcastle’s beautiful coastline.

Venue: Q Building, The University of Newcastle
Address: 16B Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle NSW 2300
Map Link
Venue Information

Registration Rates

Regular full registration: AUD$950

Emerging Researcher: AUD$800

*Emerging Researcher: Masters & PhD student or > 2 years post-PhD confirmation

Abstract Submissions close FRIDAY 3 JULY 2026.

Speakers

Keynote

Maria Battistone, PhD

Assistant Professor of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital,

Harvard Medical School, United States

Symposium Sessions

Crossroads of Immunity and Sperm Maturation

Dr Christiane Pleuger - Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen, Germany

Prof. Daishu Han - Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China

Prof. Jannette Dufour - Texas Tech University, United States

Epididymal Checkpoint: Regulating Sperm Fate and Male Fertility

Prof. Pablo Visconti - University of Massachusetts, United States

A/Prof. Erick da Silva - São Paulo State University, Brazil

Dr David Skerrett-Byrne - Helmholtz Zentrum München, Germany

Program at a Glance

Abstract Submissions close FRIDAY 3 JULY 2026.

Programming Potential: How the Epididymis Shapes Sperm and Offspring

A/Prof. Upasna Sharma - University of California Santa Cruz, United States

Dr Anne-Sophie Pépin - Helmholtz Zentrum München, Germany

Prof. Daniel Cyr - National Institute for Scientific Research, Canada

Molecular Transfer Across the Male Reproductive Tract

Dr John Schjenken - University of Newcastle, Australia

Prof. Clémence Belleannée - Université Laval, Canada

A/Prof. Adria LeBoeuf - University of Cambridge, England

Across the program, you’ll hear from leading international researchers alongside rising voices shaping the future of the field. Epididymis IX is a prime opportunity to connect, collaborate, and build lasting international networks. We will be opening the conference at Noah’s on the Beach, a stunning beachfront venue that provides the perfect start to the conference. We’ve also built time to connect at the Conference Dinner and explore one of Australia’s premier wine regions.

Tickets and details available at registration.