Message From the SOBP President

Dear Members and Friends of the Society of Biological Psychiatry,

Happy February! As we welcome 2026, I am delighted to share some details about the plans for our upcoming meeting in New York, April 30-May 2. For over eight decades now, the SOBP has been at the forefront of advancing our understanding of the biological basis of mental health and illness.

This year’s annual meeting theme is on “Building Better Brains: From Synapeses to Societies”, and promises to be one of the most exceptional yet. We received a record-breaking number of symposia and abstract submissions for this year’s meeting; many thanks to our Program Committee for their diligence and hard work with some very difficult decisions. The program features an outstanding lineup of world-renowned plenary speakers, cutting-edge research, and opportunities for collaboration that reflect the dynamic and innovative spirit of our community.

Given the success of the inaugural Neural Palette initiative last year, I am excited to announce its continuation for this year’s Annual Meeting. Neural Palette celebrates the intersection of creative expression, neuroscience, and mental health, with this year’s theme: " Creative Circuits: Where Art Meets Brain Development and Neural Plasticity." We excited to see your best original artwork! Submissions are now open, until March 30, 2026.

Another exciting part of the program this year will be our 2026 Public Event, sponsored by our Communications Committee in partnership with NAMI NYC on Wednesday April 29: “Building Resilient Minds: Stories, Science, and Mental Health.” The program will include TED-style ‘lightning talks; and a moderated panel discussion including speakers with lived experience with mental illness sharing their stories.

Make sure to register for the meeting, and – if you haven’t already - submit your best and most innovative science. It’s not too late- late-breaking abstracts are due today Friday, February 6th!

I wish you all a successful and fulfilling 2026 and I can’t wait to see many of you at the annual meeting!

Warm Regards,

The Society of Biological Psychiatry is proud to support the next generation of researchers through our gift membership program.

These memberships provide students with valuable opportunities to engage with our vibrant community, access cutting-edge resources, and contribute to the Society’s mission of advancing knowledge and collaboration. Gift memberships are available for 2026 – Don’t miss the opportunity to join.