2027 Call for Speakers

Share Your Expertise at the Lab Design Conference

The Lab Design Conference is now accepting speaker proposals for the 2027 event, taking place May 10–13, 2027, in Dallas, Texas.

May 10–13, 2027
Hyatt Regency Dallas, TX

As one of North America’s leading events for laboratory planning, design, construction, renovation, and operations, the Lab Design Conference brings together architects, engineers, lab planners, construction professionals, facility leaders, scientists, and end users to explore the ideas shaping the future of laboratory environments. We are seeking engaging, educational, and non-commercial presentations that provide practical insights, real-world experiences, and actionable takeaways. Educational sessions take place May 11–12, 2027.

Submit your Proposals Soon!

Deadline for Submissions is August 21st, 2026.

Why Speak?

Reach a highly engaged laboratory design audience

Speaking at the Lab Design Conference is an opportunity to share your expertise with professionals responsible for designing, building, renovating, operating, and managing laboratory facilities. As a speaker, you’ll:

  • Establish yourself as a thought leader in the laboratory design community
  • Share your expertise with architects, engineers, planners, and project stakeholders
  • Contribute to AIA-accredited continuing education opportunities
  • Showcase innovative projects, lessons learned, and best practices
  • Expand your professional network and industry visibility
  • Help shape the future of laboratory design and operations

A Growing Focus

A Growing Focus on the Lab End User

The most successful laboratory projects begin with a deep understanding of how people actually work within the space. For 2027, we are particularly interested in proposals that incorporate the perspectives of laboratory end users, including:

  • Laboratory managers & directors
  • Scientists & researchers
  • Quality & compliance professionals
  • Facility owners & operators
  • Technical staff & laboratory teams

Whether presenting independently or alongside architects, engineers, and project partners, end-user speakers bring valuable insight into how design decisions impact safety, productivity, workflow, collaboration, and scientific outcomes. We strongly encourage proposals that demonstrate successful collaboration between design teams and laboratory stakeholders.

Who Attends?

A Cross-Section of the Laboratory Project Lifecycle

The Lab Design Conference attracts professionals from across the laboratory project lifecycle, including:

  • Architects
  • Engineers
  • Laboratory planners
  • Construction managers
  • Facility directors
  • Laboratory managers
  • Scientists & researchers
  • Project owners
  • Academic institutions
  • Healthcare organizations
  • Pharmaceutical & biotech companies
  • Government & industrial laboratories
  • Equipment & infrastructure providers

This unique mix of perspectives creates meaningful conversations that extend beyond design and into the real-world operation of laboratory facilities.

Topics We’re Looking For

Priority Areas for 2027

We welcome proposals covering a broad range of laboratory planning, design, construction, renovation, and operational topics.

Health, Safety & Welfare

Sessions eligible for AIA HSW credit are strongly encouraged — at least 75% of content should address occupant health, safety, and welfare.

Renovation & Modernization

Lessons learned from upgrades, retrofits, adaptive reuse projects, and phased renovations.

Sustainable & Resilient Labs

Energy efficiency, decarbonization, resilience planning, and high-performance laboratory environments.

Emerging Technologies

Artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, smart labs, and digital twins shaping the future.

Components & Infrastructure

Casework, lighting, mechanical systems, cleanrooms, utilities, furniture, and workflow optimization.

End User Perspectives

Presentations from scientists, managers, and facility owners on planning, designing, or operating labs.

Collaboration & Project Delivery

Strategies for aligning stakeholders, improving communication, and reducing project risk.

Lessons Learned

Project successes, unexpected challenges, cautionary tales, and practical advice.

What Makes a Strong Proposal?

The Strongest Submissions Typically Include

  • Real-world case studies
  • Practical, immediately actionable takeaways
  • Lessons learned from completed projects
  • Measurable outcomes and project results
  • Multiple stakeholder perspectives
  • Interactive discussion opportunities
  • Collaboration between design professionals and end users
  • Content that serves as a reference for future projects

AIA Continuing Education

The Lab Design Conference is an approved AIA Continuing Education Provider. Proposals that qualify for AIA Learning Units and Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) credits are strongly encouraged.