From 5–7 March 2025, the global rare disease community will convene for a landmark event: the 8th RE(ACT) Congress & IRDiRC Conference. Taking place in Brussels, this gathering is jointly organised by the BLACKSWAN Foundation and the International Rare Diseases Research Consortium (IRDiRC).
This year’s edition celebrates the enduring legacy of the RE(ACT) Congress, now in its 8th iteration, renowned for fostering impactful collaborations in the field of rare and orphan diseases. Paired with the 6th IRDiRC Conference, this event is poised to push the boundaries of rare disease research, connecting scientific innovation with meaningful policy development. With ERDERA, EURORDIS, and Rare Diseases International among its key partners, the conference exemplifies the power of collective action and shared expertise.
Programme highlights
Attendees can look forward to an inspiring array of talks, sessions, and workshops that tackle the most pressing issues in rare disease research:
- Keynote Highlights: Cutting-edge discussions on topics such as artificial intelligence in diagnostics, regulatory science, and novel funding models.
- Themed Sessions: Dive into advanced therapies, the societal impact of rare diseases, and opportunities in drug repurposing.
- Poster Sessions: An extensive showcase of innovative research, encouraging dialogue between leading experts and emerging talents.
Renowned speakers, including Dr Sue Baker, Dr Vicente Yepez, and Dr Samantha Parker, will share their expertise, spanning genomics, advocacy, and cutting-edge technologies.
Get to know all the speakers and the programme here.
Why this event matters
Rare diseases affect millions, yet many remain undiagnosed or lack effective treatments. The RE(ACT) Congress & IRDiRC Conference addresses these gaps by fostering collaboration and advancing groundbreaking solutions. This event aims to:
- Drive innovation in diagnostics, treatments, and healthcare policy.
- Amplify patient voices, ensuring research reflects real-world needs.
- Build connections across academia, industry, and advocacy, creating a unified force for change.
Whether you are a researcher, clinician, policymaker, or patient advocate, this event offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with those at the forefront of rare disease research.
We hope to see you in Brussels next March!
Register here.
