2026 Vascular Research Initiatives Conference (VRIC)
Overview
The Vascular Research Initiatives Conference (VRIC) is where basic science and translational vascular research take center stage. Share your discoveries with vascular surgeons, biologists, trainees and other researchers — and make new connections that advance vascular science and lead to the next breakthrough in patient care.
VRIC is one of the only meetings dedicated to vascular surgeon-scientists and their research partners. It offers a uniquely supportive platform for investigators at all stages of their careers. Whether you’re an established leader, a post-doctoral researcher or a trainee, VRIC provides the visibility, feedback and professional connections to help your research make an impact.
Held alongside the American Heart Association's (AHA) Vascular Discovery Scientific Sessions, VRIC allows you to submit your abstract once to be considered for both programs — and attend two premier meetings in a single trip. (Please note: VRIC and Vascular Discovery Scientific Sessions are two separate conferences with separate registration fees.)
Submissions
Abstract Submissions will be accepted Oct. 22-Jan. 7, 2026.
Researchers at all career stages are encouraged to submit, including vascular surgeons, vascular biologists, physicians with an interest in vascular problems, PhDs, post-docs, vascular surgery fellows, vascular and general surgery residents and medical students.
Submissions will be accepted through AHA’s Vascular Discovery abstract portal. To submit, you must create a free AHA account or log in to your existing one.
There is a non-refundable $95 fee for non–AHA members and a $45 fee for AHA members to submit an abstract to VRIC and/or Vascular Discovery. This fee allows you to submit one abstract to one or both meetings.
Vascular Research Initiatives Conference Trainee Award
Attending VRIC 2026 as a trainee? Top-scoring abstracts submitted to the VRIC by trainees will be considered for the Vascular Research Initiatives Conference Trainee Award. You must submit your abstract by January 7, 2026 at 7pm ET/6pm CT to be considered. Learn More.
Questions?
Email the SVS Education Department.