Events
For 50 years, Sanford Burnham Prebys has advanced discovery through curiosity, collaboration, and commitment. As we look ahead, there are many ways to be part of what comes next.
Our events bring together leading scientists, supporters, and curious minds to explore the ideas shaping the future of biomedical research. From big-picture conversations to deep scientific dives, each program offers a chance to engage with discovery as it happens, and to better understand how today’s breakthroughs are transforming human health.
Scientific Summit
March 4, 2026
The Scientific Summit featured a panel of Institute scientists discussing advances in research on diseases including cancer, Alzheimer’s, aging and heart disease. The discussion was moderated by Donald Kearns, MD.
0:00: Intro 50th anniversary video
- 2:28: David A. Brenner, MD
President and CEO
Donald Bren Chief Executive Chair - 5:06: Caroline Kumsta, PhD
Assistant Professor - 12:15: Sanjeev S. Ranade, PhD
Assistant Professor - 17:55: Anne Bang, PhD
Associate Professor - 24:21: Paul Boutros, PhD, MBA
Director, NCI-designated Cancer Center - 31:13: Panel Panel discussion with the speakers led by Donald Kearns, MD, chair of the Sanford Burnham Prebys Board of Trustees
Discovery Series: Inside the Science of Heart Disease
April 15, 2026
The Discovery Series offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at cardiovascular research at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute. This presentation features scientists at the forefront of heart disease research, sharing how their discoveries are being translated into potential new therapies.
0:00: Intro 50th anniversary video
Speakers
- 2:23: Welcome
David A. Brenner, MD
President and CEO, Donald Bren Chief Executive Chair
Sanford Burnham Prebys - 6:12: Creating a New Gene Therapy to Treat Heart Failure
Alexandre Colas, PhD
Associate Professor
Sanford Burnham Prebys - 11:54: Born with a Broken Heart: Childhood Heart Defects and Lifespan Consequences
Sanjeev S. Ranade, PhD
Assistant Professor
Sanford Burnham Prebys - 21:05: Aging, Left Sided Valve Disease and Interventional Therapies
Ehtisham Mahmud, MD, FACC, FSCAI
Professor and Division Chief, Cardiovascular Medicine
UC San Diego Health
35:42: Panel Panel discussion with the speakers led by Kurt Marek, PhD, Chief Research Development Officer, Sanford Burnham Prebys
Discovery Series: Inside the Science of Rare Diseases
August 13, 2026
Our Discovery Series program offers a behind-the-scenes look at rare disease research at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute.
More details to come for this exciting program.
Igniting The Future Of Discovery
October 3, 2026
Fairmont Grand Del Mar | 5:30 p.m.
Together, we’ll celebrate five decades of incredible achievements and the visionary thinkers and partners who got us here. Our science is fueled by a passion to transform lives. Come help us celebrate those who dedicate their brilliance, heart and vision to making it possible. Benefactor and underwriting opportunities are available for those who wish to play a more significant role in supporting the event. Your generosity helps bring this evening to life while advancing the discoveries that improve human health.
Honorary Chairs
- Phyllis and Dan Epstein
- Melanie and Bill Roper
- Karen and Jeff Silberman
- Karen and Stuart Tanz
- Muffy Walker and John Reed
