2026 Global Surgery Student Alliance National Conference

Have a passion for surgery and international work—but don’t know how to get started?
Global surgery is not one single path. There is no checklist, no “right” timeline, and no one-size-fits-all definition of what it means to become a global surgeon.

That’s exactly why this year’s conference theme is “Becoming a Global Surgeon.”
This conference is designed to give students and trainees practical, realistic pathways into global surgery by showcasing the many ways surgeons engage in global work—across specialties, career stages, and settings. Our goal is to demystify global surgery and help you identify how your interests, skills, and values can translate into meaningful global impact.

Throughout the day, you’ll hear from clinicians and leaders working in global surgery through:

• Education & capacity building
• Humanitarian aid and medical missions
• Long-term international partnerships
• Surgical care in conflict zones, featuring international speakers working on the ground

Because no two journeys look the same, our panels intentionally highlight diverse career paths—from academic surgeons to humanitarian clinicians—so you can explore what global surgery can look like for you.

In addition, we will host both in-person and virtual booth fairs featuring NGOs and nonprofit organizations involved in global surgery across multiple specialties. This is an opportunity to connect directly with organizations, learn how to get involved as a student, and take concrete next steps beyond the conference.

We will also be holding a Global Surgery Research Symposium, with abstract submissions now open. Students and trainees are encouraged to submit their work and engage in scholarly discussion around global surgical care.

📌 Research Symposium Abstract Submission Deadline: February 8
🔗 Submit here: https://forms.gle/VpSWgs37PrH9VyD36

Whether you’re just beginning to explore global surgery or actively looking for ways to get involved, this conference is designed to help you chart your course and take your first—or next—step toward becoming a global surgeon.

Exact building location will be finalized in the upcoming weeks on campus at the University of Washington in Seattle, Washington.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Global Surgery Student Alliance