This conference will highlight the latest advances in the understanding of epigenetic drivers in cancer and relate this to the current epigenetic treatments of the disease. One unique and compelling aspect of this conference will be the intersection of academia and industry.  Academic presenters will highlight basic research into epigenetic pathways of cancer (i.e., what are the drivers; how they work; how does diet or the environment affect inheritance, susceptibility and mutation accumulation; what are epigenetic mechanism of cancer resistance, metastasis, and tumor plasticity). Industry speakers will relate their latest efforts to target cancer in a personalized manner, and report on emerging developments in anti-cancer therapies currently heading to or in the clinic.  Additionally, there will be an emphasis on examples where academics/clinicians have taken their research towards the clinic, through collaborations with pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

This conference will provide an opportunity for academic, clinical and industry scientists to meet and collaborate.  In addition, young investigators will have the opportunity to learn how basic research is converted into concrete treatments for cancer patients, reinforcing the advantage of thinking about patient benefit and industrial partnering in their research.  Finally, in order to help facilitate their career choices, there will be workshops with panelists from academia and industry reflecting on their choices and experiences, as well as a panel on women in science.