The Peachey Project: From Bench to Breakthrough

Researchers, clinicians, and advocates from across Indiana will gather at the Indiana University Kokomo campus for The Peachey Project: From Bench to Breakthrough, an annual conference dedicated to advancing collaboration in breast cancer research. The event will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026, and registration is free and open to the public.

Formerly known as the Amelia Project conference, The Peachey Project continues a long-standing tradition of bringing together leading voices in breast cancer research to share discoveries, foster collaboration, and accelerate progress from laboratory research to real-world patient impact.

The conference creates a platform for scientists and clinicians across institutions to exchange knowledge and explore new opportunities for collaboration. It also provides an important opportunity for pre-doctoral and post-doctoral researchers to present their work and engage with leaders in the field. A patient advocate panel will also be featured during the day, offering perspectives that connect research with the lived experiences of those affected by breast cancer.

This year’s program will feature presentations from leading researchers including Michael Wendt, PhD (Purdue University), Thomas D. O'Sullivan, PhD (University of Notre Dame), and keynote speaker Seema Khan, MD (Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine). Additional presentations will highlight emerging research in breast cancer biology, treatment innovation, and the role of immunity in cancer outcomes.

The day will begin with welcome remarks from Kathy Miller, MD, Harikrishna Nakshatri, BVSc, PhD, and Stephanie Rufenbarger Lesher, Vice President of Development for the Catherine Peachey Fund.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore a poster session featuring research from graduate students and post-doctoral scholars, reinforcing the conference’s commitment to supporting the next generation of scientists.

Abstract submissions are encouraged and were accepted through March 2, 2026, with selected submissions featured during the conference’s poster and oral presentation sessions.

The Peachey Project: From Bench to Breakthrough is sponsored by the Catherine Peachey Fund, which supports breast cancer research and programs focused on accelerating discoveries that improve patient outcomes.

Registration for the conference is free. Additional details, including the full agenda and the 2026 abstract book, are available through the event registration page.