The Boehnke Symposium

Building Modern Statistical Genetics and Shaping its Future

May 14–15, 2026 | Michigan League | Ann Arbor, MI

NOTE: This registration form should be used for those who plan to attend the featured academic lecture by Gonçalo Abecasis, recipient of the 2026 Michael Boehnke Distinguished Visiting Scholar Award. Dr. Abecasis will be honored and deliver his remarks during the keynote timeslot on Thursday, May 14 at 4:30 p.m.

Overview

The University of Michigan Department of Biostatistics invites you to attend the Boehnke Symposium, a two-day gathering honoring Professor Michael Boehnke’s transformative contributions to statistical genetics and genomics.

Over the course of his career, the field has evolved from early linkage studies to genome-wide association analyses, large-scale sequencing, and integrative genomic discovery. Professor Boehnke has helped shape that transformation — through methodological innovation, leadership in international research consortia, and mentorship of generations of statistical geneticists.

This symposium reflects both that history and the field’s future.

Registration Information

Free registration is available for all attendees, and includes access to all scientific sessions, scheduled breaks and meals, and symposium materials.

An optional invitation-only dinner will be offered on Thursday evening; separate registration and payment are required.

What to Expect

Across May 14–15, 2026, the program will feature:

• Keynote lectures from leaders in statistical genetics and genomics

• Research presentations from Professor Boehnke’s former graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and collaborators who themselves have all gone on to become key figures in the field.

• Sessions highlighting advances in statistical genetics and genomics.

• Reflections from Professor Boehnke

The symposium will bring together colleagues, collaborators, and trainees whose work continues to extend the scientific foundations he helped build.

Who Should Attend

From the Unviersity of Michigan and beyond, his event is intended for:

• Anyone who has previously been mentored by and/or collaborated with Professor Boehnke

• Researchers in statistical genetics and genomics

• Biostatisticians and quantitative scientists

• Genetic epidemiologists

• Faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students

• Members of the broader biomedical research community