If you’ve ever wondered about the latest research and developments in disability and rehabilitation, then a State of the Science Conference may be just the right event for you! These conferences bring together experts to review, synthesize, and communicate what is happening right now in their field: what does the science show, where is agreement, what gaps may exist, and where should future research or development happen.

NIDILRR grantees have organized and presented State of the Science and similar conferences over the years, including Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers (RRTC) and Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers (RERC) sharing the results of their multi-year projects and looking ahead to next steps in their fields. Many of these conferences are held online or in-person with a live stream for some or all presentations. Often the recordings and slides are posted, so you can access them on your own time if you’re unable to attend live.

Here are two upcoming opportunities!

• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) State of the Science Conference, February 26^th and March 12^th, 1 to 3:30 pm ET each day, hosted by the ADA Network Knowledge Translation Center. Researchers from the ADA National Network and other organizations will offer short presentations on the ADA and employment, community living and participation, health and society, and community needs and access. The conference is designed for anyone who wants to learn more about the latest ADA research for personal or professional reasons. Free registration required.
• The 2026 Annual Disability Statistics Conference, March 18^th, 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, hosted by the RRTC on Disability Statistics and Demographics (StatsRRTC). This hybrid event will feature the debut of the new Disability Statistics Compendium, along with collaborative research related to disability statistics and first-hand perspectives of the real-world stories behind the data. Free registration required. Previous conferences are also archived.

You may also want to explore recordings of these recent conferences (registration may be required):

• Deaf and Hard of Hearing Accessible Technology State of the Science Conference focused on advancing technology and accessibility for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. Presenters from the Deaf/Hard of Hearing Technology RERC and the 21^st Century Caption Metrics and Usability Project highlighted the latest research outcomes, demonstrated accessible technologies, and hosted critical discussions on advancing equity and usability across communication platforms.
• State of the Science on Employment for Individuals with Intellectual and Development Disabilities (IDD) focused on research studies to help reduce the high levels of unemployment among people with IDD. Hosted by the RRTC on Employment of Persons with IDD, conference speakers included experts in the field, businesses, people with disabilities, and their families.
• State of the Science on Employment of Transition-Age Youth with Disabilities highlighted research studies related to successful employment of transition-age youth with disabilities. Hosted by the RRTC on Employment of Transition-Age Youth with Disabilities, participants learned about cutting-edge transition practices and strategies, resources and training materials, and student and parent/caregiver insights.
• TechSAge State of the Science Conference highlighted research advances and priorities in technologies to support people aging with disability. Hosted by the RERC on Technologies to Support Aging-in-Place for People with Long-Term Disabilities (TechSAge), sessions focused on four areas of research: Maintain Health and Wellness; Enhance Connectivity and Community Mobility; Support Safety and Independence in Everyday Home Activities; and Facilitate Caregiving.

Follow our online Calendars of Events and sign up for our News and Notes from the NIDILRR Community and Beyond to find upcoming opportunities to learn about the current and future of disability and rehabilitation research!