IFCB (International Federation for Cell Biology) and APOCB (Asian Pacific Organization for Cell Biology) are the two primary international organizations for cell biology and their mission is to foster cell biology research and Cell Biology Societies in countries across the world. The 13th IFCB congress and the 8th APOCB Meeting will be held in Hyderabad, India jointly with the Indian Society of Cell Biology (ISCB) along with its 41st annual meeting. This meeting also commemorates the 30th anniversary of Asian-Pacific organization for Cell Biology.

This will be the first-ever joint meeting of these two International cell biology organizations, and will see cell biologists from across the world coming together to showcase and discuss their work.

This meeting will bring together scientists from diverse disciplines working in various parts of the world having the common goal of understanding properties of cells and how they function. We aim to create a platform for cell biologists, to have the opportunity of listening to latest discoveries in the field and, sharing results and ideas. It is hoped that this meeting will bridge people to initiate new collaborations. This will also serve as a forum for interaction among scientists, clinicians and industry.

Sessions on cell biology education, what a career in cell biology means, scientific writing and ethics are also planned. Latest tools available to cell biologists will also be discussed and showcased. Corporate sector that helps cell biology research by manufacturing/distributing equipment & resources, will play an active part in showcasing their latest products. Highlights are mini symposia, and a special session to commemorate discovery of GPI anchors. It is also proposed to host pre and post-conference satellite meetings in other cities of India.

The Conference will include a full range of academic sessions, plenary lectures, and social/cultural events. We plan to have talks by 50-60 invited speakers. Other researchers will get an opportunity to showcase their work through platform/poster presentations. The meeting specially encourages participation from young researchers. Scientists trained in physical or chemical sciences, but have an interest in understanding the biological cell, are encouraged to participate.

The official language of the conference will be English.

Hyderabad is an ancient city (4th largest in India) located in south- central India. It has a rich history with admixture of diverse cultures. It is famous for its cultural heritage, pearl trading and exotic cuisine. Hyderabad is also known for its IT/ Pharma & Biotech industries. Weather in January will be very pleasant with temps between 150C (low) and 280C (high). Hyderabad is well connected by International flights from several cities across the world.

India is a member country of International Federation for Cell Biology, and Asian-Pacific organization for Cell Biology. This joint meeting will be organized by CSIR-CCMB, with Dr. Vegesna Radha & Dr. Jyotsna Dhawan as organizing secretaries.