Marking the 60th Anniversary of the Discovery of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) & 30th Anniversary of the Discovery of the Kaposi’s Sarcoma Herpesvirus (KSHV)

Dear Colleagues,

We are excited to welcome you to Boston for the 2024 International Conference on EBV and KSHV! What an exciting year for this joint symposium, which will take place on the 60th and 30th anniversaries of the discoveries of EBV and KSHV, respectively. This joint meeting will be held at the Hilton Park Plaza Hotel, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Boston from June 29th – July 3rd, 2024. It will bring together researchers studying the oncogenic gamma-herpesviruses EBV and KSHV, as well as related agents, including murine gammaherpesvirus-68. Sessions will highlight viral pathogenesis, viral latency and reactivation, viral gene expression and replication, host responses to infection and autoimmunity, epidemiology, vaccine development, and therapeutic intervention.

The EBV / KSHV 2024 scientific advisory board (SAB) will formulate an innovative and thematic format for the meeting and we encourage all researchers with interest in EBV and/or KSHV, to submit their most current, unpublished work as abstracts before the March 4th submission deadline. The meeting encourages the presentation of data before publication to enable open discussion and feedback from a field of experts, in addition to fostering the development of their scientific communication skills. Networking opportunities will be structured for trainees to interact with senior faculty at academic institutions and scientists from industry and government. Senior scientist, clinicians and trainees at all levels are invited to participate and attend as well as attendees with knowledge and interests outside the EBV/KSHV community to bring perspective and instructive comparisons. As a means to feature the most up-to-date and exciting unpublished science, over 95% of speakers will be selected based on the merits of submitted abstracts.

Our conference setting in Boston brings a vibrant fusion of history, culture, and summer festivities! The Hilton Boston Park Plaza Hotel is a distinguished and luxurious venue nestled in the heart of historic Back Bay, offering a perfect blend of elegance and modern comfort. Conveniently located near Boston’s renowned attractions such as Newbury Street’s upscale shopping, the Boston Common, and historic landmarks, the Hilton Boston Park Plaza Hotel provides conference attendees with a luxurious retreat in the heart of one of the most vibrant cities in the United States.

The hotel’s central location allows easy access to Boston’s iconic landmarks, dining options, entertainment, and cultural attractions, enabling attendees to explore the city during their downtime. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage by exploring the Freedom Trail, a winding path through iconic landmarks like the Paul Revere House and Faneuil Hall. July in Boston means warm weather perfect for strolls along the charming cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill or relaxing picnics in the Boston Common. Experience the lively vibes at events like the Boston Harborfest (June 30-July 4) and the 6th Annual Boston Art & Music Soul Festival, (June 29 & June 30) showcasing local talents and diverse cultures. And if you’re a fan of fireworks, stay a bit longer to celebrate Independence Day with spectacular displays over the Charles River, an unforgettable sight lighting up the Boston skyline. Or to catch a baseball game at Fenway Park (Boston Red Sox play the San Diego Padres June 28th, 29th and 30th, America’s oldest ballpark. With its blend of historical significance, cultural vibrancy, and summer festivities, Boston promises an unforgettable experience for conference attendees.

Sincerely,

Organizing Committee:

  • Benjamin E. Gewurz, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA  (Co-Chair)

  • Kenneth M. Kaye, MD, Professor, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA  (Co-Chair)

  • Ann M. Moormann, PhD, MPH, Professor, Department of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, USA

  • Mandy Muller, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, USA
  • Erle S. Robertson, PhD, Harry P. Schenck Professor in Otorhinolaryngology, Program Leader, Tumor Virology Training Program, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, USA
  • Bo Zhao, PhD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Department Medicine, USA

Benjamin E. Gewurz, MD, PhD

Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA (Co-Chair)

Kenneth M. Kaye, MD

Professor, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA (Co-Chair)