Moving Upstream: Advancing the science of structural determinants of health

On behalf of Upstream Lab…

This conference is hosted by Upstream Lab in collaboration with partners including Canadian Institutes of Health Research – Institute of Population and Public Health (CIHR-IPPH). It comes at a critical moment as we seek to deepen our understanding of the structural determinants of health, identify key knowledge gaps, and chart a path forward for research, policy, and practice. The event will convene academics, research funders, policymakers, health system leaders, and trainees who are committed to advancing work in this area. The conference day will conclude with a reception marking the 10-year anniversary of the Upstream Lab and celebrating its contributions to advancing upstream approaches to health equity.

Call for Abstracts:

Submit abstracts of completed research on interventions addressing structural determinants around these objectives:

1. Discuss key scientific advancements related to structural determinants and the role of research in moving policy upstream.
2. Identify methodological gaps and effective approaches for interdisciplinary research to strengthen the evaluation, implementation and policy relevance of structural determinants research.
3. Explore priorities for research on structural determinants over the next 5 years for academics and research funders.
4. Catalyze new connections among diverse stakeholders who are committed to advancing work to address structural determinants.

Submission guidelines:

• Abstracts must be a maximum of 250 words on interventions to address structural determinants of health. Study proposals and protocols will not be accepted. Abstracts will be accepted for either posters or oral presentations.
• Submit abstracts to upstreamlab@unityhealth.to with the subject line: Abstract – Moving Upstream Conference
• Deadline for submission: September 10, 2026 at 11:59 pm