We invite you to join us for the 2026 UF Center of Regenerative Medicine Symposium.
This CME event brings together clinicians, researchers, and innovators to explore the latest advancements transforming patient care through regenerative therapies, including cell and gene therapies. There will be local and internationally renowned faculty speakers, student speakers, exhibitors, and a poster session. Trainees are eligible for the awards competition. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from leading experts and connect with colleagues shaping the future of medicine.
Scan or click the QR code below to register or submit abstract!
Keynote
Joshua M. Hare, MD, FACC, FAHA obtained his medical degree from Johns Hopkins University before completing his residency at Hopkins, Harvard University, and The Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. Prior to obtaining his position at the University of Miami, Dr. Hare worked at Johns Hopkins as Professor of Medicine and Biomedical Engineering, as well as director of cardiac transplant. Currently, Dr. Hare serves as a Louis Lemberg Professor of Medicine, Director of Donald Soffer Endowed Program in Regenerative Medicine, Senior Associate Dean for Experimental & Cellular Therapeutics, and Director of Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute (ISCI) at the University of Miami. Dr. Hare is a pioneer in stem cell therapy in cardiology and conducted the first human clinical trial on stem cell-based treatment in heart attack patients. At the 2026 Center of Regenerative Medicine Symposium, he will give a presentation on “Understanding Disease Pathophysiology to Unlock Novel Cell and Gene-Based Drug Target Opportunities.”
Faculty Speakers
Barry J Byrne M.D., Ph.D.
David Fuller Ph.D.
Mei He Ph.D.
Catherine Flores
Helena Zomer
Agenda
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Breakfast, Mix & Mingle, and Poster Set up |
| 8:00 AM | Welcome by Mustafa Ahmed, MD and Katelyn Bruno, PhD |
| 8:10AM | Introduction: “Bench to Bedside: Collaborative Pathways in Gene Therapy Translation” by Barry Byrne, MD, PhD |
| 8:45AM | Q&A moderated by Ashley Darakjian and Mustafa Ahmed, MD |
| 9:00AM | Refreshment Break |
| 9:15AM | Faculty Presentation: “Gene therapy in neuromuscular disorders” by David Fuller, PhD |
| 9:45AM | Faculty Presentation: “Extracellular vesicles: mediated delivery and biological programming strategies” by Mei He, PhD |
| 10:15AM | Faculty Presentation: “Stem cells for neuroprotection against radiation” by Catherine Flores, PhD |
| 10:45AM | Faculty Presentation: “Redefining Healing: How Regenerative Medicine is Advancing Skin Repair” by Helena Zomer, VMD, PhD |
| 11:15AM | Poster Viewing and Competition at Harrell Medical Education Building Atrium |
| 12:00PM | Lunch pickup |
| 12:15PM | Keynote and Lunch: “Understanding Disease Pathophysiology to Unlock Novel Cell and Gene-Based Drug Target Opportunities” by Joshua Hare, MD, FACC, FAHA from University of Miami |
| 1:00PM | Keynote Q&A moderated by Mustafa Ahmed, MD |
| 1:15PM | Refreshment Break |
| 1:30PM | Young Investigator Presentation: “Potential immune responses in AAV gene therapies” by Orinda Hobson from Dr. Hammer’s Lab |
| 1:50PM | Young Investigator Presentation: “EV and biomaterial applications in tendons” by Kariman Shama from Dr. Taylor’s Lab |
| 2:10PM | Young Investigator Presentation: “Hedgehog signaling controls stem cell fate in skeletal muscle” by Kiara Fierman from Dr. Kopinke’s Lab |
| 2:30PM | Awards and closing remarks by Dr. Katelyn Bruno, PhD |
Location
Harrell Medical Education Building
1104 Newell Drive,
Gainesville, FL 32601
