State of the Science Symposium
Creating Shared Possibilities in Hospice and Palliative Care Research
Join fellow investigators to share and explore new research and innovative methods in hospice and palliative medicine. The 2027 State of the Science Symposium (SOTS), presented by the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM) and the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association (HPNA), is being held as a full-day pre-conference symposium held prior the 2027 Annual Assembly of Hospice and Palliative Care on March 17, 2027, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in
Pittsburgh, PA.
About the Symposium
The State of the Science Symposium brings researchers together for a full day of learning, networking, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Connect with leading researchers, explore the latest developments in the field, and build relationships across the scientific community.
Participants will learn about modern research designs and methods, discover opportunities for interdisciplinary partnerships, and take part in professional development designed for researchers at every career level.
Attendees of the 2027 State of the Science Symposium will have until Wednesday, June 30, 2027 at 11:59pm PT to claim CE credits.
Within an inclusive community of interprofessional palliative and hospice care scientists, participants will:
- Synthesize cutting-edge research focused on care for all people living with serious illness that impacts practice, policy, and social justice.
- Engage with a diverse research community to foster networking, collaboration, and mentor-mentee relationships.
- Refine knowledge and skills in research methods and scientific professional development across the career trajectory.
This symposium is designed for professionals and trainees committed to advancing care for people with serious illness through research.
This includes:
- Researchers & Scientists
- Physicians
- Advanced Practice Nurses
- Registered Nurses
- Pharmacists
- Physician Assistants
- Psychologists
- Social Workers
- Chaplains & Spiritual Care Providers
- Fellows, Residents, Students, and Other Trainees
Whether you’re actively involved in hospice and palliative care research or exploring it as a future career path, this symposium offers valuable insights, connections, and development opportunities.
Funding for this symposium was made possible, in part, by 1R13AG099540-01 from the National Institute on Aging (NIA). The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention by trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.W. Government.” The award is funded by the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research (OBSSR), Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health (OD), and NIA.
Schedule at a Glance
Explore the March 17 pre-conference symposium agenda and see how the day unfolds from opening sessions to closing discussions. All times are listed in Eastern Time.
Please note: schedule is subject to change.
New for 2027: Networking Reception
Arrive in Pittsburgh early and join fellow researchers for a networking reception on Tuesday, March 16, from 4:30-6pm ET at the Convention Center. Grab a beverage, meet other attendees, and start building connections before the symposium begins.
The reception is included with your State of the Science Symposium registration and is open exclusively to registered symposium attendees.
| 4:30 P.M. | Networking Social |
| 8:00 A.M. | Welcome & Opening Remarks |
| 8:15 A.M. | Research That Matters: A Call to Action |
| 8:45 A.M. | Finding Your Fit: NIH Program Officers on Funding Priorities and Future Directions |
| 9:45 A.M. | Break |
| 10:00 A.M. | Research Methods Breakouts |
| 12:00 P.M. | Lunch (Included in Registration) |
| 1:15 P.M. | Harnessing Technology in Hospice & Palliative Care Research |
| 2:15 P.M. | Break |
| 2:30 P.M. | Careers in Research Breakouts |
| 4:00 P.M. | Break |
| 4:15 P.M. | Panel Discussion on Research Methods |
| 4:45 P.M. | Closing Remarks & Adjournment |
*Important Note: Lunch will be provided to all registered attendees on Wednesday afternoon.
Check back in late fall for expanded session descriptions and speaker information when the schedule goes live.
How to Register
The State of the Science Symposium is available through 2027 Annual Assembly registration. Look for the symposium under Pre-Conference Workshops when completing your registration.
Symposium-only registration: If you are not registering for the Annual Assembly and would like to attend only the State of the Science Symposium, please contact Member Services at 847.375.4712 or [email protected]. Online registration for pre-conference workshops only is not available.