21st Biennial Congress of the MRS

Marriott Downtown City Creek, Salt Lake City

June 28 – July 1, 2026

Registration open...

21st Biennial Congress of the MRS

Key Information

When: June 28 – July 1, 2026
Where: Marriott Downtown City Creek, Salt Lake City, UT, USA

Key Dates:

Registration opens: Late February 2026
Early bird deadline: 30th April 2026

Abstract submission opens: Late February 2026
Abstract submission closes: 30th April 2026

 

Last updated: 27th February 2026

Accommodation

The meeting will be held at the Marriott Downtown City Creek, Salt Lake City, UT, USA

Conference organisers have negotiated discounted rates for 6/27/2026 – 7/2/2026 for conference delegates.
Rate: $229 + tax
Group rate available 3 days pre- and post- room block dates, based on availability.

Book here

Delegates are advised to book their accommodation early as Salt Lake City can be busy in summer and the congress falls immediately before the 4th July weekend.

Last updated: 27th February 2026

 

Program

The program is still being finalised and will be made available here soon. Below is a sneak peak at our confirmed speakers…

Last updated: 30th January 2026

Registration

Registration is now open below

Conference registration does not include accommodation.
Please see the accommodation tab for further information on places to stay.

Last updated: 27th February 2026

Abstracts can be submitted using the link below:

Delegates are requested to register for the congress prior to submitting their abstract.
Abstracts without an accompanying registration will not be considered.

Submit Abstract

 

Last updated: 27th February 2026

Getting to Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the main gateway for both domestic and international delegates attending the 21st Biennial MRS Congress. The airport is conveniently located just 5 miles (8 km) northwest of downtown Salt Lake City, approximately 12-15 minutes by car.

For International Delegates:
Salt Lake City International Airport is served by major international carriers and offers connections through major US hubs.

For Domestic Delegates:
Salt Lake City is well-connected to major US cities through multiple carriers including Delta, American, United, Southwest, Alaska Airlines, JetBlue, and Frontier.

Airport to Hotel Transportation

The Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek (75 South West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101) is located in the heart of downtown, adjacent to the Salt Palace Convention Center.

Transportation Options:

  • TRAX Light Rail (Most Economical): Take the Green Line directly from the airport to City Center Station. Trains depart every 15-20 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes. One-way fare is $2.50. Trains operate from 5am-midnight on weekdays and 6am-midnight on weekends. The TRAX station is located on the ground level of the airport (exit door 1A, head east).
  • Taxi/Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are available at the airport with designated pickup areas on the ground level. Journey time is approximately 12-15 minutes. Estimated cost: $20-$25 one way.
  • Airport Shuttle Services: Several shuttle services operate between the airport and downtown hotels, with advance reservations recommended. Journey time is approximately 15-20 minutes.
  • Rental Cars: Multiple car rental agencies are available in the Gateway Center, located next to the airport parking garage.

The Marriott Downtown at City Creek offers valet parking for those driving to the venue.

 

Last updated: 30th January 2026

Visa Information for International Delegates

Do You Need a Visa?

Visa Waiver Program (ESTA): Citizens of 42 countries including most of Europe, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Chile, and Israel can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. You must:

  • Apply for ESTA online at least 72 hours before travel: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
  • Hold a valid biometric passport
  • Pay $21 application fee

Check the full list of eligible countries here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visa-waiver-program.html

Canadian citizens generally do not require a visa or ESTA.

Visitor Visa

If you’re not eligible for ESTA, you’ll need a visa. Apply at least 3-4 months before the conference.
For current information: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/business.html

In general, a visa application process will require you to:

  • Hold a valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • Complete a DS-160 form: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/
  • Pay the visa fee
  • Interview at a US Embassy/Consulate
  • Hold an invitation letter from conference organisers
  • Provide proof of registration and payment

Requesting a Visa Invitation Letter

You must register and pay for the conference first. Then email info@metastasis-research.org.

Important, an invitation letter does not guarantee visa approval.

 

Last updated: 30th January 2026

Discover Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City offers a unique blend of urban culture and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination to explore before or after the conference.

In the City

Temple Square – Utah’s most-visited attraction and the historic heart of downtown, featuring the iconic Salt Lake Temple, Tabernacle (home to the world-famous choir), and beautifully landscaped gardens. Free guided tours available.

Utah State Capitol – Stunning Neoclassical building with panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley. Free tours showcase Utah’s history and government.

Natural History Museum of Utah – World-class museum on the University of Utah campus featuring impressive dinosaur exhibits, geology, and Utah’s natural history.

City Creek Center – Premier shopping and dining destination connected directly to the conference hotel, featuring over 110 stores and restaurants in an open-air setting with a flowing stream.

Great Salt Lake – North America’s largest saltwater lake is just 20 minutes from downtown. Experience the unique floating sensation and witness migratory birds at this natural wonder.

Gateway to National Parks

Salt Lake City is ideally positioned as a base camp for exploring some of America’s most spectacular national parks:

  • Capitol Reef National Park – 3.5 hours
  • Arches National Park (near Moab) – 3.5 hours
  • Canyonlands National Park – 4 hours
  • Bryce Canyon National Park – 4 hours
  • Zion National Park – 4.5 hours
  • Yellowstone & Grand Teton – 5 hours

Many delegates extend their stay to explore Utah’s renowned “Mighty Five” national parks or the iconic geysers of Yellowstone.

June Weather

Late June in Salt Lake City offers warm, sunny days with low humidity – perfect for outdoor exploration. Expect daytime temperatures of 85-95°F (29-35°C), cool evenings around 60-65°F (15-18°C), and abundant sunshine.

Please note, Salt Lake City has an average elevation of approximately 4,330 feet (1,320 meters) above sea level. This elevation may cause mild symptoms like headaches, lightheadedness, or shortness of breath for those arriving from sea level, especially when undertaking more strenuous activities such as hiking.

More Information

Visit www.visitsaltlake.com for detailed attraction information, restaurant recommendations, and tour options.

Social Events

The meeting will host a Welcome Reception and Congress Dinner. More details to follow soon

 

Last updated: 27th February 2026

MRS members – please use the code provided in the newsletter to unlock member pricing. 

Registrations will be checked against the current member database so please ensure your membership dues are up-to-date to avoid having your registration cancelled.

Non-members – we strongly encourage you to join the society – details on membership can be found here

Sponsors

The organising committee would like to thank our generous sponsors for their support of this meeting:

Supporters

We would also like to acknowledge the support of: