Research Story: RegenAge Singapore 2026 - Defining the Future of Ageing and Regenerative Science

Research Story 1: RegenAge Singapore 2026 - Defining the Future of Ageing and Regenerative Science

By Associate Professor Anjali Parmanand Kusumbe

The inaugural RegenAge Singapore 2026 conference convened leading scientists, emerging investigators, and early-career researchers from around the world at the Toh Kian Chui Annex Lecture Theatre at LKCMedicine’s Novena Campus on 26 and 27 January 2026. The two-day meeting marked the launch of a premier international platform dedicated to advancing research in ageing biology and regenerative medicine.

Hosted by lead organiser Associate Professor Anjali Kusumbe, and co-organised by Professor Kristijan Ramadan, the conference centred on the theme “Ageing and Regeneration: From Mechanisms to Medicine.” Participants explored cutting-edge topics spanning stem cell biology, vascular and bone biology, genome stability, and age-related diseases – aimed at fostering dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration to drive transformative discoveries.

The keynote lecture was delivered by Professor Mone Zaidi from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, a leading figure in skeletal biology and ageing research. “This was a spectacular exposé – a true learning experience for all – of the most prominent discoveries in regenerative medicine and ageing biology across tissues,” Prof Zaidi reflected. “The transdisciplinary and translational flavour was unique and thoughtfully crafted, as was the purposeful focus on the cadre of aspiring young investigators.”

Joining him were distinguished speakers including Professor Janet Rossant (Editor-in-Chief, Stem Cell Reports), Michael Milsom (Germany), Yu Huang (Hong Kong University), Purushothama Rao Tata (USA), Maximina Yun (China), Ira Milosovic (UK/Portugal), Gerald Watts (Australia), John Mamo (Australia), Yoshiaki Kubota (Japan), Philan Kim (South Korea), and Marco Foiani (Singapore/Italy).

A strong emphasis was placed on nurturing early-career talent. Best Talk and Poster Awards celebrated outstanding postdoctoral researchers, while dynamic poster sessions offered students and young scientists a platform to showcase their work and engage with leading investigators.

PhD students played pivotal roles in organising the conference, leading short-talk sessions and supporting event coordination. Soumiya RP, Yang Yang, Sufian Bin Suderman, and Ken Wong from the Research Administration and Support Services were instrumental in ensuring a smooth and inclusive experience for all participants.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Assoc Prof Kusumbe shared: “RegenAge Singapore 2026 was envisioned as more than a scientific meeting—it was a vibrant community and a platform for meaningful exchange across disciplines and generations. Bringing global leaders and emerging investigators together at LKCMedicine created an environment where collaboration and curiosity could thrive. I am deeply grateful to our speakers, session chairs, participants, and sponsors for their commitment and enthusiasm, and I look forward to building on this momentum as we welcome the community back in 2027 to continue shaping the future of ageing and regenerative science.”