Welcome to ASPCR-ASDR 2013

Message from the Co-Chairs - ASPCR-ASDR Conference 2013

It is with great pleasure that we announce this exciting joint meeting hosted by the Asian Society for Pigment Cell Research (ASPCR) and the Australasian Society for Dermatology Research (ASDR). We look forward to welcoming members of both societies to the beautiful city of Sydney, Australia between 17th-19th May 2013. We also warmly welcome foreign delegates to this wonderful country and sincerely hope that you will all enjoy the academic feast we are preparing for this conference and the beautiful landscape and unique characteristics of Australia.

This is the first time that the ASPCR is holding a conference in Australia. Previous conferences held in India, Singapore, South Korea and China have been great successes. As in the past we have many Asian pigment cell researchers and world experts as guest speakers at this conference. It is really a mini-international pigment cell research meeting! To top it off, the ASDR has joined hands with the ASPCR to include the best of dermatological research and basic science research in related fields, to organize this joint conference.

We have put together a wide array of topics ranging from basic science research to clinical applications. As melanoma is an increasing concern in Australia we have apportioned almost one full day's deliberations for melanoma and related topics. The scientific programme will feature guest lectures, symposia, posters and selected oral presentations from delegate submissions and is sure to appeal to the varied academic interests of participants. A trade exhibition will be held by the many sponsors who have supported this event and to whom we extend our heartfelt thanks.

We look forward to seeing a large number of Asian, Australian and other international delegates at this historic meeting. We sincerely hope that you will participate in and enjoy the joint ASPCR-ASDR Conference and take advantage of this opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Sydney and beyond.