For over 20 years, the ATS Research Program has supported early career investigators during their transition to independent research careers. Since the program’s inception, the ATS and its partners have invested over $26M to support more than 400 research grants. These studies have resulted in significant advances in respiratory health, including a better understanding of lung diseases, stem cell applications, pulmonary fibrosis, acute lung injuries, and sleep hygiene.

In the 2026 grant cycle, the ATS awarded 12 grants totaling approximately $800K. When traditional funding becomes unpredictable, donor commitment provides the steady foundation that keeps lifesaving respiratory science moving forward.

ATS 2026 International Conference participants can help fund this critical program, meet grantees, and network by attending the ATS Research Program Benefit. The Benefit will be held on Saturday, May 16, 6–7:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Hotel. Each ticket includes a tax-deductible donation to the ATS Research Program.

Hors-d’oeuvres, beer, and wine will be served at the event. Business attire is recommended.

“The Research Program Benefit is a signature event of the International Conference,” said ATS President Raed A. Dweik, MD, MBA, ATSF. “It’s a great forum to connect with other attendees at the start of the conference while supporting research opportunities for the future leaders of critical care, pulmonary, and sleep medicine.”

Those who would like to make a gift to the ATS Research Program directly can do so here. Every dollar is used to advance lifesaving research to prevent, treat, and cure respiratory disease.

Attendees can purchase their ticket or table package with logo recognition as part of their registration for the ATS 2026 International Conference. Benefit tickets will also be available for purchase at the door. General admission Supporter tickets are $350 ($200 tax deductible) and include access to the ATS 2026 Donor Cafe. The Founder package is $1,000 ($700 tax deductible) and includes two tickets to the ATS Research Program Benefit, an invitation to the ATS Donor Reception, and access to the Donor Café.

Institutional sponsorship packages, which include logo recognition and other benefits, can be purchased through ATS 2026 registration or by contacting Delia Naughton, LMSW, director, ATS philanthropy at [email protected].

Corporate sponsorship packages, which include logo recognition and other benefits, can be purchased by contacting Meredith Smalstig, associate director, sponsorships and industry programs, at [email protected].

For questions or additional information, please email [email protected].

The ATS thanks Chiesi USA, GSK, Insmed Incorporated, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Genentech, Inc., and United Therapeutics for their support of the ATS 2026 Research Program Benefit.