2026 Abstract Program

AATB Congress 26 provides a premium forum to showcase and celebrate innovative research, professional practice advancements, and scientific discovery across the tissue and biologics community. All submitted and accepted abstracts, along with their corresponding digital and physical posters, will be displayed during the Congress, October 4-7, 2026, in San Francisco, CA. 


Abstract Submission Overview
Abstract submissions are accepted in two categories: 

  • Scientific Research
  • Practice, Quality, and Translational Innovation

Each abstract must be based on original work that has not been previously published in any copyrighted journal or abstract book. Abstracts previously submitted to smaller or regional meetings are eligible, provided they meet originality requirements.


To Recognize Excellence
Winners and Spotlights:

  • One winner and one runner-up (spotlight) will be selected in each category.
  • Invitation to present in a dedicated STAC track breakout session at AATB Congress 26.
  • Complimentary Congress registration.

All Accepted Abstracts:

  • Displayed as digital posters in the Congress app and on the website.
  • Displayed as physical posters during the Congress.
  • Authors present during a designated poster presentation session to discuss their work with attendees.
  • Opportunity to develop their abstract into a full manuscript for publication, with STAC support.
  • Opportunity to have their abstract published in Cell and Tissue Banking.

By submitting an abstract, the author (or a designated speaker/author) confirms their willingness and availability to present the topic at the AATB Congress 26 and to provide both a physical and a digital poster.
 

Submission Deadline
Abstracts due Wednesday, April 1, 2026 by 5pm ET


Key Dates
February 17: Abstract Submissions Open
April 1: Abstract Submissions Close
April 22: Notification of Abstract Acceptance, including Winners and Spotlights
July 17: Digital Posters Due (For all accepted abstracts, category winners, and spotlights)
September 1: All Speakers Registered 
September 1: Speaker Materials Due (category winners, and spotlights)
September 30: Presentation Details, Slides, and Presenter Bios Due (category winners, and spotlights)
October 4: Physical Poster Set Up


Abstract Categories
Scientific Research
This category includes original scientific investigations advancing knowledge in tissue banking, cellular therapies, and regenerative medicine. Submissions may encompass basic science, translational research, preclinical or clinical studies, and analytical or methodological innovations. Abstracts should present clear objectives, appropriate study design, data-driven results, and conclusions that contribute to scientific understanding or future clinical application.

Scientific Research abstracts should relate to clinical or non-clinical research performed on allograft tissue and/or biologics for the purpose of establishing and evaluating tissue characterization, safety, efficacy, quality, or innovation. 

Examples of topics include, but are not limited to:

  • Clinical usage and application methods (human and animal evaluation)
  • Microbiology (screening, testing, validation)
  • Tissue processing methods and optimizations
  • Tissue handling (recovery, storage, distribution, stability)
  • Disinfection and sterilization methods
  • In-vitro model validations
  • CMC assay development, qualification, and validation
  • Allogeneic cell evaluation and regenerative medicine
  • Other applicable scientific topics 

Types of tissue that may be assessed include:

  • Musculoskeletal (bone, tendons)
  • Cardiac tissue
  • Vascular tissue
  • Skin
  • Birth tissue

Practice, Quality, and Translational Innovation
This category recognizes evidence-based initiatives that strengthen tissue banking practice and improve patient care through quality systems, regulatory science, clinical implementation, education, operational performance, or access to therapies. Submissions should demonstrate measurable impact, system or process improvement, or successful translation of scientific knowledge into safe, effective, and compliant practice.

Abstracts may include surveys, literature reviews, case studies, program evaluations, or testimonials related to tissue banking and biologics. Submissions should be evidence-informed and demonstrate measurable impact or clear outcomes where applicable.  

Examples of topics include, but are not limited to: 

  • Donor eligibility requirements
  • Technician safety practices
  • Recovery methods
  • Service to donor families
  • Funeral home practices
  • Hospital practices
  • Compliance and regulation
  • Other relevant administrative topics (must describe)


Abstract Requirements
Instructions for Structured Abstract Submissions
Sample Abstract
Abstract Submission Guidelines PPT


Poster Requirements
Digital Posters
Digital posters will be showcased in the event app and on the website during AATB Congress 26, with continued online visibility afterward. 

  • Dimensions: Digital version of the physical poster
  • Format: PDF (should match your physical poster)
  • Digital Posters Due: July 17, 2026

Physical Posters
Physical posters will be displayed in the abstract area at AATB Congress 26, providing an in-person forum to highlight your work.

  • Poster Board Size: 4’ High x 8’ Wide 
  • Orientation: Landscape
  • Mounting: Must be compatible with push pins 
  • Responsibility: Authors handle printing/shipping
  • Presenting Responsibility: Presenters must be available during the poster session
  • Physical Posters Due: October 4, 2026 (During Poster Set Up)


Abstract Submission and Acceptance
Abstract submissions are accepted through the AATB submission site. All abstracts must be submitted by 5pm ET, April 1, 2026.

Submitting authors will be notified no later than Wednesday, April 22, 2026 regarding abstract acceptance and selection as a category winner or spotlight presenter for the STAC Track Session.

Submit Your Abstract Today!