The Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) has opened the window of opportunity for members of the clinical research community to submit educational proposals for sessions to be presented at ACRP 2026 in Orlando, Fla., and advisors for the event emphasize that it aims to enhance the relevant workforce’s competencies, skills, professional development, and knowledge.
Whether you are a potential first-time presenter or a seasoned hand at educating audiences from behind a podium or interacting with attendees out on the floor, several of those advisors from ACRP’s Conference Advisory Working Group are here to answer some questions that may be on your mind. Questions like…
Of all the conferences out there, why should I submit a proposal to ACRP’s event—especially for 2026?
“Because there’s no better time than now to come together, share insights, and learn from peers across the clinical research community,” says Beth Bieze, MA, CCRA, ACRP-PM, FACRP, Clinical Quality Management Director for ProTrials. “Your story, your strategies, and your lessons learned could inspire someone else. You never know when your voice might be the one that transforms a colleague’s perspective—or their career.”
Noting how the clinical research enterprise is navigating a period of rapid change—with new International Council for Harmonization guidelines, the integration of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, funding challenges, and shifting regulatory landscapes, among other challenges, in the mix, Bieze says, “While uncertainty is high, one thing remains constant: our shared commitment to participant safety and data integrity. Having open conversations with others who are in the trenches with us isn’t just helpful—it’s energizing. Hearing how others have overcome obstacles, built resilient processes, and inspired their teams can spark new ideas and reignite your passion for this work.”
ACRP’s conferences are where the entire clinical research ecosystem comes together—from contract research organizations and pharmaceutical firms to academic medical centers and investigative sites, adds Jessica Fritter, DHSc, MACPR, ACRP-CP, Associate Clinical Professor and Director of the Master of Clinical Research and Certificate Programs in the College of Nursing at The Ohio State University.
“If there’s one word I would use to defines this event, it’s ‘community,’” says Fritter, who is also President of the ACRP Ohio Chapter. “No matter your role or sector, you’ll feel part of a shared mission and a powerful network. Submitting a proposal for ACRP 2026 is your chance to shape the future of clinical research. Your voice matters! No idea is too small—because innovation starts with sharing.”
What’s different about the topic tracks for ACRP 2026 versus previous years, and why?
The topic tracks for ACRP 2026 are designed with the clinical research ecosystem in mind, Fritter explains. “Where are we evolving? What needs to be at the forefront? These questions were taken into careful consideration when reimagining the topic tracks,” she says. “Previous attendees’ voices were heard alongside strategically analyzing the trends in the industry. I am excited to see all of the amazing content to come from these new topic tracks.”
What if I’ve never presented at an ACRP conference (or any conference, for that matter) before? Will my proposal get noticed? What should I know in order to make it the best possible submission it can be?
“Don’t be scared!” Fritter urges. “Trust me, I remember my first time submitting a proposal to ACRP and I was so nervous. But if you follow the proposal guidelines, if you check off all the boxes on what is needed for submission, and if what you want to present on is novel and/or you have a new outlook even on what may be a common topic, you’ll be going down a promising path. Oh, and a catchy title is always a plus!”
I’m worried my idea might be too basic (or too advanced) for most of the attendees. What should I do?
ACRP is always looking for some proposals that are for beginners, some intermediate, and some advanced, Fritter says. “There is a home for ideas from across the learning spectrum,” she adds. The Call for Proposals site for ACRP 2026 (to be held April 24–27 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando in Orlando, Fla.) is open through July 21.
Submitted proposals should show how—within a 45-minute session or panel discussion—the speaker(s) will explore topics related to developing core competencies in clinical research; encourage attendees to consider fresh solutions to industry challenges; illustrate forward thinking in the field; feature inclusion, equity, and representation; showcase innovative and engaging program formats; and demonstrate the relevance of lessons learned through real-world case studies. Please visit the submission site suggested topics within the tracks into which proposals will be sorted—Clinical Operations, Study & Site Management, Regulatory & Quality, Innovation & Change Management, and Workforce & Professional Development.
Notifications of the decisions made on proposals will be sent on October 3 and session slides and resources will be due by January 20, 2026.
Edited by Gary Cramer
