Clinical Trials Rising Stars Showcase
In collaboration with the Alzheimer's Association
CTAD is the world’s premier conference uniting leading AD/ADRD clinical trialists from academia, industry, and not-for-profit organizations, with an exclusive focus on Alzheimer’s disease therapeutic trials. Central to CTAD’s mission is the identification and advancement of the next generation of clinical trial leaders — the investigators who will design, lead, and shape the future of AD/ADRD research.
Early-career investigators working in AD/ADRD therapeutic trials are at the heart of scientific progress: driving new discoveries, refining methodologies, and translating breakthroughs into clinical practice. They will build the global trials network, mentor the next wave of researchers, and lead the Alzheimer’s research community into its next chapter. The Rising Stars Showcase exists to celebrate, elevate, and accelerate their journey.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Rising Stars Showcase, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
Open to individuals from academia, industry, or not-for-profit organizations.
Research must be directly relevant to AD/ADRD clinical trial design, conduct, or analysis — involving human trials only.
Eligible research areas include, but are not limited to: study design, biomarkers (imaging, biofluids, digital), clinical and functional outcomes, recruitment and retention science, trials operations, statistical methodology, and regulatory science.
Applicants must be within 7 years of completing a terminal degree (e.g., MD, PhD, PharmD).
How to Submit?
- Create your submitter account on the CTAD abstract submission platform.
- Select "POSTER PRESENTATION" as your submission type.
- Select the appropriate submission category.
- Check the box: "I want to be considered for the Rising Stars Showcase."
This category is for in-person poster presentation only. A dedicated featured showcase at CTAD26 in Boston will spotlight the top selections, giving each selected presenter the opportunity to deliver a flash presentation (3 minutes / 3 slides) followed by Q&A — a unique platform to share their work with the world’s leading AD/ADRD clinical research community.
Benefits for Selected Rising Stars
Recognized Rising Stars will receive:
✓ Complimentary in-person registration to CTAD26 in Boston, MA (November 16–19, 2026).
✓ A featured flash presentation slot (3 minutes / 3 slides + Q&A) at the dedicated Rising Stars Showcase session.
✓ A complimentary one-year membership to the Alzheimer’s Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer's Research and Treatment (ISTAART) (alz.org/ISTAART).
✓ An invitation to an exclusive breakfast hosted by the Alzheimer’s Association at the CTAD Conference to enhance networking with other selected rising stars and senior trialists
The Alzheimer’s Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment (ISTAART) is a vibrant global network of over 14,000 scientists, clinicians, and dementia professionals united by a shared mission: the pursuit of knowledge, collaboration, and breakthroughs to advance the research and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. ISTAART membership opens the door to a worldwide community of peers, mentors, and collaborators dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those affected by dementia. Stay informed about conferences and events, avenues for publication and grant funding announcements. Build lasting, influential connections and explore mentorship and leadership opportunities through ISTAART.
