2026 CeZAP Infectious Diseases Research Symposium

October 30, 2026

The Inn at Virginia Tech

Keynote Speaker: Arturo Casadevall, MD, PhD, Bloomberg Distinguished Professor, Johns Hopkins

The CeZAP Symposium is an opportunity to showcase and celebrate the outstanding research being conducted by our faculty, staff, students, and trainees. Beyond the science, the symposium serves as an important opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, build new collaborations, and strengthen our research community. To help make the day both educational and enjoyable, the CeZAP Planning Committee has organized several interactive activities throughout the symposium.

Passport Networking Challenge

A Passport Networking booklet will be available at the registration desk. Participants can collect "stamps" by finding individuals who match specific prompts or criteria listed in the booklet. A participant's signature serves as a stamp for that activity.

Individuals who complete 15 of 20 passport activities will be entered into a drawing for prizes, which will be awarded during the afternoon social. This is a fun way to meet new colleagues, learn about the diverse expertise within CeZAP, and expand your professional network.

Science Trivia

Put your scientific knowledge to the test during the afternoon social at our Pathogens Themed Science Trivia Challenge. Participants may compete individually or in teams to answer questions spanning microbiology, infectious diseases, scientific history, and other areas of biomedical research.

Teams will earn points for correct answers, and the team with the highest score at the end of the competition will be crowned the CeZAP Science Trivia Champion. Prizes will be awarded to the winning team, along with, of course, bragging rights for the coming year!

Infectious Disease Costume Contest

Because the CeZAP Symposium takes place on the eve of Halloween, we invite participants to embrace the spirit of the season by wearing a costume inspired by infectious disease research. Whether you choose to dress as your favorite pathogen, vector, scientist, or another creative science-themed character, we encourage you to join in the fun.

A costume contest will be held during the afternoon social, with awards presented for most creative and best overall.  Participants who prefer not to wear their costumes throughout the day will have an opportunity to change before the social begins. Prizes, bragging rights, and plenty of photo opportunities await. Participation is entirely voluntary, but we hope you'll join us in making this year’s symposium both memorable and entertaining.

We look forward to a day of excellent science, engaging conversations, and community building. See you at the symposium!

2026 CeZAP Symposium Planning Committee

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Sarah Gouger at sgouger@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.