European Conference on Pharmaceutics (ECP)

Overview

The European Conference on Pharmaceutics (ECP) is the premier biennial gathering of academics, industry professionals, regulatory authorities and policy makers interested in the science and practice of pharmaceutical development. The conference provides a platform to share cuttingedge research, discuss emerging trends, and forge collaborations that shape the future of drug delivery, formulation science, and therapeutic innovation across Europe and beyond.

History of the Conference

The inaugural ECP was held in Zurich, Switzerland, in 2004, driven by a consortium of European pharmaceutical societies that recognised the need for a dedicated forum to discuss formulation challenges specific to the European regulatory environment. Since then, the conference has rotated among major academic hubs, including:

• 2006 University of Manchester, United Kingdom
• 2008 University of Barcelona, Spain
• 2010 University of Copenhagen, Denmark
• 2012 University of Bologna, Italy
• 2014 University of Helsinki, Finland
• 2016 University of Frankfurt, Germany
• 2018 University of Oslo, Norway
• 2020 (Virtual) due to pandemic constraints
• 2022 University of Lyon, France
• 2024 University of Krakow, Poland (upcoming)

Each edition has expanded the program scope, increasingly emphasizing patientcentred drug design, nanotechnology, and regulatory harmonisation. The conferences longevity reflects its ability to adapt to scientific breakthroughs while maintaining a strong European identity.

Key Themes and Topics

While the exact agenda varies each cycle, the conference consistently focuses on the following multidisciplinary areas:

• Advanced Drug Delivery Systems liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, micelles, and smart carriers.
• Biopharmaceutics and Bioequivalence invitroinvivo correlation, dissolution testing, and regulatory pathways.
• Pharmaceutical Technology continuous manufacturing, PAT (Process Analytical Technology), and scaleup strategies.
• Formulation Science solid dosage forms, lyophilized products, and novel excipients.
• Regulatory Science EMA guidelines, orphan drug designation, and postapproval surveillance.
• Personalised Medicine companion diagnostics, 3D printing of medicines, and pharmacogenomics.
• Sustainability green chemistry, waste minimisation, and environmentallyfriendly packaging.
• Clinical Pharmacy & Translational Research bridging preclinical discoveries to bedside application.

Special focus panels are convened each year on emergent topics such as AIdriven formulation optimisation, mRNA therapeutics, and pandemicresponsive drug development.

Program Highlights & Speakers

The 2024 edition in Krakow will feature a threeday programme comprising:

• Plenary Lectures delivered by Nobel laureates and leading scientists from academia and industry.
• Keynote Sessions covering regulatory trends, nanomedicine, and realworld evidence.
• Technical Workshops handson training in highperformance liquid chromatography, 3D printing, and insilico modelling.
• Poster & Oral Presentations selected from more than 300 submissions representing earlycareer researchers and senior investigators.
• RoundTable Discussions interactive debates on policy, market access, and crossborder collaboration.

Confirmed keynote speakers include:

• Prof. Dr. Elena Rossi (University of Milan) Nanocarriers for Targeted Oncology
• Dr. Michael Andersson (Swedish Medical Products Agency) Regulatory Innovation in the EU
• Dr. Aisha Khan (Pfizer, UK) From Bench to Bedside: Translational Challenges
• Prof. Jan Novak (Charles University) Sustainable Manufacturing in Pharmaceutics

Full programme details are available on the official conference website, where attendees can also customise their personal agenda.

Paper Submission & Peer Review

Researchers are invited to submit original scientific contributions, short communications, and review articles. All submissions undergo a doubleblind peerreview process to ensure scientific rigour and relevance.

Important Dates (2024)

• Abstract Submission Opens: 1February2024
• Abstract Deadline: 30April2024
• FullPaper Submission Deadline: 31May2024
• Notification of Acceptance: 15July2024
• CameraReady Manuscripts Due: 1August2024

Submission guidelines:

1. Manuscripts must be prepared using the ECP template (available in MS Word and LaTeX).
2. Word limit for full papers is 4000 words, excluding references, tables, and figures.
3. All figures must be highresolution (300dpi minimum) and include legends.
4. Authors must disclose any conflicts of interest and funding sources.

To submit, create an account on the conference portal, upload the manuscript, and complete the submission checklist. Accepted papers will be indexed in major bibliographic databases and may be considered for a special issue of the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Registration & Fees

Registration is open to academics, industry professionals, regulators, and students. Earlybird rates are available until 31May2024.

Registered participants receive:

• Access to all plenary and parallel sessions.
• Proceedings in both printed and digital formats.
• Free entry to the networking reception and city tour.
• Discount vouchers for the upcoming 2026 conference.

Venue & Travel Information

The conference will be hosted at the International Conference Centre (ICC) Krakow, located on the banks of the Vistula River, a short walk from the historic Old Town. The venue offers 20 lecture halls, modern exhibition space, and a range of catering options featuring Polish cuisine.

Accommodation

Negotiated rates are available at several partner hotels within a 1km radius. Recommended hotels include:

• Hotel Stary 120/night (luxury)
• Hotel Cracovia 85/night (midrange)
• Hostel Pod Ratusz 45/night (budget)

All hotels provide complimentary WiFi and easy access to the conference centre via a dedicated shuttle service.

Getting There

International travelers can reach Krakow via John Paul II International Airport (KRK) with connections from major European hubs. A direct train line links the airport to Krakow Main Station in 30minutes. From the station, the ICC is reachable by tram (line 4) or a 10minute walk.

City Attractions

Attendees are encouraged to explore Krakows cultural landmarks, including Wawel Castle, the historic Market Square, and the historic Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz. A guided evening tour is scheduled for 22June.