Boise to host major chemistry conference

The 2026 Northwest Regional Meeting, hosted by the Snake River Section of the American Chemical Society, will take place at the Boise Centre East June 28 to July 1. Boise State faculty have played a significant role in organizing and managing this conference.

Designed to highlight both cutting-edge research including chemistry, drug discovery, functional materials, nuclear chemistry and food science, and the vibrant local community, the conference features programming for all professional levels, including students, educators and industry leaders.

The event kicks off on Sunday, June 28, with a plenary lecture by Nobel laureate M. Stanley Whittingham, recognized for his pioneering development of the lithium-ion battery.

Community and industry impact

The organizing committee has designed the conference to highlight Boise's local industry and rich cultural heritage. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in:

• Industry tours: Exclusive tours of Micron Technology facilities will showcase local innovations in semiconductor manufacturing.
• Workshops and exposition: The conference will feature professional development and educational workshops, including an "Art of Negotiation" session for graduate students and postdocs led by Geraldine Richmond. The exposition hall will remain open from Sunday evening through Wednesday.
• Cultural celebrations: Attendees will experience Boise's rich heritage via a tour of the Basque Museum of Idaho, a Basque-themed dinner featuring a presentation by John Ysursa, and performances by the Oinkari Basque Dancers.
• Local history: Historic Boise walking tours will invite guests to explore the city firsthand.

Conference events on Boise State campus

The conference will highlight Boise State's campus and community presence through:

• Campus events: Boise State will host the Bruker AFM technical workshops on campus.
• Educator advancement: High school teachers can earn up to two professional development credits through Boise State University's Division of Extended Studies.
• Alumni networking: A dedicated Boise State Alumni Reception will celebrate our graduates' ongoing achievements in the chemical sciences.

A dedicated organizing committee, led by the faculty of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, drives this event. Leaders include Associate Professor Eric Brown (General Chair), along with Co-Program Chairs Don Warner and Olya Mass. Vital committee members Lisa Warner, Karen Hammond, Tom Greenbowe and Marian Dewane, have also collaborated to make the gathering possible.

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