Wednesday 11 November will mark our twelfth International Pathology Day event. The College launched International Pathology Day in 2014 in collaboration with pathology and laboratory medicine organisations worldwide. Since then, it has become a well-established platform for recognising the contribution of pathology and laboratory medicine to addressing global health challenges.

Join us at our virtual conference on International Pathology Day, from 09.45 with a start time of 10.00 finishing at 14.35 GMT as we celebrate the vital contributions of pathologists, laboratory scientists and healthcare professionals around the world. This year's theme, 'Pathology in an Era of Personalised Medicine', will explore the evolving role of personalised medicine across a range of pathology specialties.

This special event is sponsored by Epredia and will be chaired by the President of the Royal College of Pathologists, Dr Bernie Croal. We are also delighted to welcome Professor Ahmad Abou Tayoun, Chair of the WHO Technical Advisory Group on Genomics, as our keynote guest. Professor Tayoun will be in conversation with Professor Sarah Coupland, President-Elect of the College.

The event will feature speakers from around the world and, for the first time, a live debate chaired by Professor Yousuf Karim, RCPath Country Advisor for Qatar. The debate, titled 'Personalised medicine is a luxury available only to the global minority', will explore one of the most pressing and challenging issues in modern healthcare.

What we'll explore

• the future trajectory of personalised medicine over the next 5 to 10 years
• current developments in pathology that are advancing personalised medicine
• global experiences of integrating genomics into healthcare systems to support more equitable, patient-centred care
• improving access to genomic knowledge and technologies for global health, particularly in resource-limited settings
• the impact of personalised medicine on training and education.

Live virtual debate

'Personalised medicine is a luxury available only to the global minority'

Is personalised medicine transforming global healthcare, or widening the gap in access to treatment and innovation?

Join us for a lively and thought-provoking debate on the proposition that personalised medicine is a luxury available only to the global minority. Two teams of leading experts will present opposing viewpoints, exploring the realities, challenges and potential inequities that shape access to precision medicine in both developed and developing countries.

Bringing forward-looking and thought-provoking perspectives, this session promises to challenge assumptions and stimulate discussion. Following the debate, audience members will be invited to vote for the team they believe presented the most compelling case.

How you can get involved

Poster competition

Do you have an inspiring innovation, research study, or project to share? Whether you are working independently or as part of a team, the International Pathology Day 2026 poster competition offers the opportunity to showcase your work to a global audience.

Sponsored by Epredia, this year's competition is themed ‘Innovations in pathology for personalised patient care’ and celebrates projects that demonstrate excellence, creativity, and impact in the field of pathology. With cash prizes available for the top 2 entries. To enter, please review the terms and conditions and download the International Pathology Day branded poster templates from our event page.

Branded resources

These resources will help you show your support and celebrate the day remotely. Downloadable IPD-branded digital materials can be found here and include:

• social media quote cards
• the iconic IPD flags
• website and Facebook banners.