Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

What is the Summit’s objective?

The Summit’s goal is to enable the operational response community to take advantage of science and technology opportunities, while mitigating potential threats. Specifically, the Summit will highlight innovations and threats in high priority scientific domains.

When and where will the Summit take place?

The Summit will span from March 9, 11, 17, and 19 2026. The Summit will take place in person at 6720-A Rockledge Drive, Suite 100 (Bethesda Auditorium), Bethesda, MD, 20817. 

Who should attend this Summit?

This summit is open to the public. Whether you're an operator, first responder, clinician, scientist, or engineer, we welcome your participation at this event.

What are the main domains for this year's Summit?

The key S&T domains include advanced computing, biotechnology, space technology, and nuclear energy. A classified domain will be conducted at a later date.

Registration & Attendance

What time will the event start and end?

The Summit is expected to start at 8:30AM and finish at approximately 5:00 PM each day.

I registered for in-person attendance, when will I know if I’ve secured an in-person reservation?

If you registered online, you have secured an in-person reservation. For questions regarding your registration, please contact Allyson Sison at allyson.sison.ctr@usuhs.edu.

Will lunch be provided during the Summit?

Coffee and tea will be available at our meeting space. Lunch will not be provided. There is a café located onsite and neighboring restaurants within driving distance. Please click here for restaurants in the area.

Speakers & Sessions

How can I view the Summit agenda and list of speakers?

Agendas and speaker details can be found on this registration site. Please click here for agendas and here to start viewing speaker details.

Will the presentations be recorded?

No, we will not be recording the sessions.

What are the media guidelines for this event?

By attending, you consent to your voice, name, and likeness being used, without compensation, in any and all media. This consent includes use now and in the future in all communication vehicles including but not limited to social media, marketing, advertisements and website promotion. This releases NIDHC and representatives acting on its behalf from any liability.

How will the information from this event be used?

We will be taking notes and summarizing the information generated during the Summit. This summarized information may be published and will be used to make additional educational materials for senior leaders in the operational response space. 

How can I ask questions during a session?

There will be Q&A segments following each speaker session, as well as during a panel discussion at the end of each day. 

Logistics & Accessibility

Is there a dress code for this event?

Civilian: Business Casual

Uniformed Service Personnel: Duty Uniform/Uniform of the Day

We recommend bringing a light sweater or jacket as the auditorium may be chilly.

What are the transportation options to the venue?

Our venue offers parking validation for the following garage: 6720-C Rockledge Drive. Information regarding public transportation, and accommodation options near 6720-A Rockledge Drive can be found here.

Is the venue accessible for individuals with disabilities?

Yes, the Bethesda Auditorium is fully accessible. If you require any specific accommodations, please contact us at least two weeks prior to the Summit at eileen.morocho.ctr@usuhs.edu. 

How will I be notified of any major changes concerning this event?

For any critical announcements, attendees will be notified via email.

Contact Information

Who should I contact if I have further questions?

For any additional questions, please contact the S&T Summit Team at STSummit@usuhs.edu, or you may reach out to team members directly at: Ms. Patrice Mann <patrice.mann.ctr@usuhs.edu> or Ms. Eileen Morocho <eileen.morocho.ctr@usuhs.edu> or call us at 240-383-6251.