This focused session brings together experienced hepatology researchers to share insights on the critical elements of building a successful research career, whether pursuing a clinician-investigator or academic researcher path. Through 3 comprehensive lectures and an interactive panel discussion, participants learn essential strategies for establishing mentorship relationships, conducting impactful clinical research, and navigating the academic timeline. For clinicians maintaining busy practices, speakers address practical approaches to integrating research activities within clinical responsibilities, including strategies for protected research time and efficient study execution. For those pursuing dedicated academic research careers, the session covers establishing independent research programs, securing sustained funding, and building research teams. The session features leading experts who share their personal experiences and practical advice from both career paths, followed by an open forum where attendees can engage directly with speakers to address specific questions about research career development in hepatology.

Join your SIG Meet-Up, where you can connect with professionals who share your research and clinical interests! Enjoy light snacks, fun games, and great conversations in a relaxed, informal setting—perfect for networking and building new connections.

• Hepatotoxicity 
• Hepatitis B/Delta 
• Pediatric Liver Disease 
• Acute on Chronic Liver Failure 
• Liver Cancer 

Join us at the Members Reception, an exclusive members-only event designed to celebrate and appreciate our dedicated AASLD members. This evening gathering provides an excellent opportunity to reconnect with fellow members, share your experiences, and engage with AASLD leadership.

Sponsored by: Madrigal Pharmaceuticals and Mirum Pharmaceuticals
 

The Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (ACLF) Special Interest Group presents current clinical and research gaps pertaining to the study and care of patients with ACLF. The introductory presentation prompts further discussion on 4 distinct topics focused on: (1) outstanding care gaps in critically ill patients with ACLF; (2) the role of novel statistical methods in ACLF diagnosis and prognostication; (3) designing clinical studies in ACLF; and (4) pathways to therapeutic advancements in ACLF. The session concludes with a panel discussion.

This workshop introduces the concept of point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) of the liver as an extension of the clinical exam to be performed by hepatology clinicians. Presenters provide a rationale for the use of POCUS, the basics of liver ultrasonography, common applications, and a path to implement POCUS in clinical practice. Participants will also receive hands-on training on performing point-of-care ultrasound examinations of the liver.

This session is supported by in-kind contributions (provision of ultrasound equipment) from GE Healthcare, Mindray, NEO Medical, and Siemens Healthineers.
 

Past Presidents' Luncheon

Leadership Luncheon

Experts provide an overview of the latest innovations in study design in MetALD-induced liver disease, including study endpoints. Presenters explore how to design and conduct effective cohort studies, large database studies, and clinical trials. Topics include the role of investigator-initiated cohort studies, large national database studies, and clinical trials in MetALD with discussion of funding opportunities, monitoring, and conducting these studies with a focus on early-stage investigators. This interactive session provides an opportunity to discuss study methodologies, existing studies, and protocols with the moderators.

Presenters in this session review the challenges in managing patients with various types of liver disease that are commonly consults for the hepatologist. Topics include viral hepatitis, iron overload, steatotic liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Wilson copper storage disease (WD) research is rapidly evolving. New diagnostic and therapeutic approaches will alter the way the disease is managed in the years ahead. These scientific advances will ensure that patients are receiving accurate diagnoses and effective therapies, thus preventing end-organ injury. Experts review the current guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of WD and contrast this with emerging novel diagnostics and therapeutics, including gene therapy.