Thanks for your interest in sharing your work as we identify the most timely and compelling scientific programming for the IFT FIRST Annual Event and Expo. Our theme for 2026 is: IFT FIRST, Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology, which centers on the transformative nature of the global food system.
Each year, our core objective is showcasing the breakthrough research, science and innovation that’s impacting the global food system, in alignment with our theme. And we firmly believe partnering with community members like you is the best way to identify the cutting-edge scientific programming that also appeals to a broad section of IFT FIRST attendees.
Call for Proposals
What we’re looking for: The latest research, breakthroughs, and projects from your areas of expertise that are impacting the global food system and our larger community.
Call for Proposal Submission Timeline
- October 22, 2025: Call for Proposals and Call for Reviewers Opens
- December 10, 2025: Call for Proposals and Call for Reviewers Closes at 11:59 PM CT
- December 17 – January 9, 2026: Tier 1 Review Period
- December – February 2026: Annual Meeting Scientific Program Advisory Panel (AMSPAP) Review Period
- March 2, 2025: Submitters Notified Status of Their Proposals
Call for Abstracts
What we’re looking for: Original, quality research focused on a specific topic or section of the food system for inclusion in our Poster and Research Showcase.
Call for Abstract Submission Timeline
- October 22, 2025: Call for Abstracts and Call for Reviewers Opens
- January 9, 2026: Call for Abstracts and Reviewers Closes at 11:59 PM CT
- January 19 – February 6, 2026: Review Period
- Early March: Submitters Notified Status of Their Abstract
Call for Reviewers (IFT Members Only)
Don’t have a proposal or abstract but want to volunteer? IFT is also recruiting experienced food science professionals to serve as Tier 1 Reviewers, and will provide an initial peer review of submissions:
- To volunteer as a Proposal Reviewer, please register here. The deadline to volunteer to review proposals is Dec. 10, 2025.
- To volunteer as an Abstract Reviewer, please register here. The deadline to volunteer to review abstracts is Jan. 9, 2026.
Thank you in advance for your submission and for volunteering your time. If you have questions or need support, we host Scientific Program Office Hours every Thursday at 2pm CT. You can also reach out to our Knowledge & Learning Experience team at [email protected].