67th Annual Drosophila Research Conference
As part of our mission, GSA helps scientists develop their skills and achieve their career goals. At Dros 2026, there are programs and initiatives to provide experience, training, mentorship, and community for scientists of all career stages. For a list of all professional development events at the conference, you can visit the conference schedule.
Conference Mentor Program
First-time and solo postdoc, graduate student, and undergraduate student GSA members may sign up to be matched with a GSA faculty member, who will serve as a Conference Mentor throughout the conference to answer your questions and provide advice on how to best maximize your conference experience. Program participants will have the chance to join a meal sponsored by GSA to connect with other program mentors and mentees.
Conference Success Tips and Welcome from GSA Engagement
The purpose of this event is to help first-time conference attendees and early career scientists make the most of the conference. Topics covered may include introductions to meeting organizers, advice on having meaningful interactions in a virtual space, a chance to meet other attendees in an informal setting, and an introduction to scientific events and other conference programming.
Dine-arounds
Wednesday, March 4, 2026, 5:00 p.m. –7:00 p.m. CST
Join fellow conference attendees at one of three local restaurants and connect over one of three shared topics: Cell Biology, Models of Human Disease, or Initiatives in Education and Pedagogy. Click here to sign up today.
Getting Involved in GSA’s Early Career Professional Development
Join GSA Early Career Leadership Program (ECLP) representatives, Presidential Members, and GSA Journal’s Peer Review Training Program members for a panel discussion about the benefits of participating in GSA’s early career professional development programs.
Individual Development Plan (IDP) and Career Exploration Workshop
This workshop will walk participants through the career exploration process by combining self-assessment exercises with IDP-informed strategies to break participants out of the linear career path. Participants will leave with a better understanding of their personal goals and how to ensure that their professional goals align with their values and needs.
GSA Journals Editor Matching Program
GSA members can request to be matched with a GENETICS or G3: Genes|Genomes|Genetics editor to discuss scientific publishing and/or editing during the conference. This will be coupled with a one-hour Q&A session during exhibitor sessions featuring five to six editors who will answer your questions about the GSA Journals, publishing, and/or editing for a scientific journal.
Netwalking
Thursday, March 5, and Friday, March 6, 2026, 7:45 a.m. –8:15 a.m CST
Connect with fellow conference attendees on Thursday, March 5, and Friday, March 6, for a 30-minute walk to start your day with a fun conversation and explore interesting locations in Chicago! On Thursday, walk to and from Millenium Park, and on Friday, explore the nearby Riverwalk.
Networking Hotspots
GSA will host themed discussion sessions on professional development and community topics. Come join the conversations—all career stages are welcome. Tables and chairs will be provided.
Professional Headshots
Dros 2026 early career conference attendees will have the opportunity to have professional headshots taken during poster and exhibit sessions. Pre-registration is required for this GSA member benefit, and early career scientists will be contacted in late January with additional information. Those who register by the Dros 2026 early registration date will be given priority. You may visit the photographer’s booth during poster session hours to inquire if a spot is available.
