The US Connect 2026 has been the largest Connect in PHUSE history, not only in terms of attendees, but also thanks to an extended agenda and new conference formats. We welcomed a record-breaking 252 attendees from 235 companies and 24 countries, in Austin, Texas.
This year’s agenda spanned five days, from 22-26 March, and offered a rich mix of presentations, hands-on workshops, panel discussions and networking opportunities.
Hear from our US Connect 2026 Chair, Kirsty Lauderdale
“The PHUSE US Connect 2026 reminded me what thoughtful innovation truly looks like - curiosity that challenges us, conversations that sharpen our thinking, and a community that leads with rigor and kindness.
My sincere thanks to our presenters, stream chairs and every member of this community for showing up with curiosity, transparency, and empathy.
I step down from my chair role with gratitude and optimism. 2027 is in excellent hands with George, and I’m excited to see this community continue to grow, lead, and lift one another.”
– Kirsty Lauderdale, US Connect 2026 Chair
Highlights
The US Connect’s two new conference formats – PHUSE Pavilion™ events and Advance Sessions – brought a new buzz to the event. Built on collaborative learning, these new events gave participants hands-on experience of what leading organisations and Working Groups are doing within the industry.
The agenda also featured 17 Streams, social events and two keynote speeches from author and journalist Lynne Peeples and TransCelerate Programme Director Dr Lilliam Rosario.
Attendees also had the opportunity to unwind and network at a range of social events, including a Golf Day, Poker Night and Line Dancing. These sessions were well attended, with rooms filled with smiles and conversation.
PHUSE Recognition Award Winners
The PHUSE Recognition framework acknowledges the exceptional contributions of our Community in making our events possible and progressing the industry through their impactful presentations. Find out more about the winners from the US Connect 2026 here:
Best in Connect:
PD12: Frank Menius, Atorus Research
Best Connect Newcomer:
ML19: Gargee Vaidya & Vitaliya Lysenko, AstraZeneca
Best in Stream:
Analytics & Statistics (AS) – AS14: Jie Yang, SGS Pharma Clinical Research
Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Large Language Models (ML) – ML12: Kjersten Offenbecker & Alice Ehmann, GSK
Data Handling & Engineering (DH) – DH12: Alvin Mathew, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals
Data Standards, Governance & Implementation (DS) – DS14: Daryna Teteriuk, Intego Clinical
Data Visualisations (DV) – DV06: Daniel Smith, Fortrea
Emerging Trends & Innovation (ET) – ET03: Malan Bosman, Clymb Clinical
Open Source Technologies (OS) – OS17: Zelos Zhu, Atorus Research
Poster Presentations (PP)– PP20: Hiral Raval, Genentech & Simon Luo, Roche
Professional Development (PD) – PD18: Avinash Pati, AstraZeneca
Real-world Evidence (RE) – RE01: Jing Dai, Jazz Pharmaceuticals & Yilun Huang, Novartis
Risk-based Quality Monitoring (RM) – RM04: Jeremy Wildfire, Gilead Sciences
Scripts, Macros & Automation (SM) – SM06: Matthew Finnemeyer, Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Submissions & Agencies (SA) – SA02: Ben Straub, GSK & Sam Parmar, Pfizer
PHUSE have made donations on the winners’ behalf to their chosen charities: Hill Country Ministries (local foodbank) and WaterAid (non-profit organisation).
These donations to meaningful causes support PHUSE’s mission to drive positive change across our communities.
Looking Ahead to the US Connect 2027
After another record-breaking year, we’re excited to invite you all to Dallas, Texas, for the US Connect 2027, taking place on 14-18 March 2027!
Want to present your ideas? Make sure you keep an eye on our LinkedIn page for updates about the Call for Speakers, opening in July.
Sponsorship packages for the US Connect 2027 are now available. Browse the prospectus to find out how your organisation can take centre-stage at next year’s event.