The Bud’dy Program is returning by popular demand for 2026!
Designed to foster an inclusive and welcoming conference experience, the Bud’dy Program pairs attendees based on expressed interests and preferences and encourages them to connect each day during the conference. Each Bud’dy pair determines for themselves when and where this happens – whether over coffee, during meals, while exploring the exhibit hall and poster sessions, or by attending scientific sessions together. Our goal is to help attendees build meaningful connections, share insights, and expand their professional networks.
Participants are also encouraged to introduce their Bud’dy to friends, colleagues, collaborators, and lab mates, helping to broaden professional circles and strengthen community ties within plant biology. We welcome involvement from all career stages and sectors, including undergraduate and graduate students, postdocs, early-career professionals, industry scientists, faculty, Legacy Society members, retirees, and more.
To help you and your Bud’dy connect, ASPB will provide several meet-up locations throughout the conference.
How the Bud’dy Program works
- Watch for the questionnaire form to be posted here once sign-up
- Sign up by June 5
- Bud’dy matches will be made based on how you designate what is most important to you.
- Early July, ASPB will email you with the name and email address of your Bud’dy so that you can make plans to connect at the meeting.
Note: You must register for Plant Biology 2026 by June 5 to participate in this program