NORD® Rare Disease Scientific Symposium
Advancing Innovation in Rare Disease Research

April 14 – 15, 2026 | Arlington, VA

NORD® Rare Disease Scientific Symposium

Rare disease breakthroughs don’t happen in isolation—they require collaboration, innovation, and a united commitment to progress. That’s why the NORD® Rare Disease Scientific Symposium is bringing together a dynamic community of researchers, clinicians, industry leaders, and advocates to spark the conversations and connections that drive science forward.

This immersive, 1.5 day event is designed to push boundaries and bridge gaps across the rare disease landscape. Through engaging case studies, interactive panel discussions, and extended audience Q&A, participants will explore critical topics such as:

  • Innovative Study Designs and Methods for Rare Disease Research
  • Approaches to Address the Challenges of Small Trial Enrollment and Disease Heterogeneity
  • Successes and Challenges of Global Clinical Trials
  • Using Alternative and Real-World Data for Rare Disease Research
  • Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration in Research
  • Strategies for Earlier Pediatric Inclusion in Clinical Trials

Let’s break barriers and build progress—together.


Why Attend

Stay Ahead

Learn about emerging research methodologies, data sources, and case studies that can benefit all rare disease research.

Engage

Join thought-provoking discussions with regulators and leaders in rare disease research and clinical practice.

Adapt & Innovate

See how research strategies and collaborations can fortify and sustain your work in a rapidly shifting landscape.

Conference Venue

The 2026 NORD Rare Disease Scientific Symposium will take place at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel.

Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel
2800 South Potomac Avenue Arlington, VA 22202

NORD has arranged a block of rooms at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel with the reduced rate of $299 per night on the nights of April 13 and April 14.

Book Your Stay

Registration Information

Your registration for this in-person event includes the following:

  • Event Sessions: Access to all general sessions during the event
  • Meals: Enjoy breakfast, snacks, and lunch during the Symposium
  • Receptions: Attend the conference Welcome Reception
  • Networking Opportunities: Ample opportunities to connect with thought leaders, sponsors, exhibitors, and other stakeholders throughout the event

If you are a member of the media, please contact [email protected] to register.

Meet our Advisory Committee

Angela Waanders, MD, MPH, MS

Section Head, Neuro-Oncology

Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago

Jennifer Cohen, MD

Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics

Duke University School of Medicine

Annette Bakker, PhD

Chief Executive Officer

Children's Tumor Foundation

Christal Delagrammatikas, PhD

Director of Research

Malan Syndrome Foundation