AACR 2026 – American Association for Cancer Research – San Diego, USA
The AACR Annual Meeting 2026 is one of the world’s leading cancer research events, bringing together scientists, clinicians and technology specialists to explore the latest advances in cancer science and medicine. Taking place from 17–22 April 2026 at the San Diego Convention Center, AACR offers an important opportunity to connect with researchers working across discovery, translational science and clinical applications.
We’ll also be teasing something brand new while we’re in San Diego. We’re keeping the details under wraps for now, but anyone working in multiplexing may want to keep a particularly close eye on this one…
Whether you are looking to improve everyday imaging performance, explore more efficient illumination for fluorescence microscopy, or see what’s coming next from CoolLED, we’d love to meet you at AACR 2026.
We’ll be bringing a range of our LED Illumination Systems with us, from the pE-300ultra and pE-400max (perfect for routine to advanced fluorescence) to the 8-channel pE-800.
Whatever your fluorescence needs, we’ve got you covered.
If your work involves fluorescence imaging, high-content workflows or multi-label experiments, be sure to stop by and speak with the CoolLED team. Our LED Illumination Systems are designed to deliver the speed, stability and spectral flexibility needed for demanding imaging applications, helping researchers capture high-quality data with confidence.
pE-300 Series
The pE-300 Series is a range of LED Illumination Systems for fluorescence, optogenetics, electrophysiology and high-speed microscopy applications.
It comprises three individual systems, providing a solution that covers a wide range of everyday fluorescence microscopy.
pE-400 Series
The pE-400 Series delivers the most advanced yet cost-effective illumination for routine to advanced fluorescence microscopy applications. Four powerful LEDs offer broad spectral coverage from 365-635 nm for use with fluorophores ranging from DAPI through YFP to Cy5.
pE-800
The arrival of the pE-800 sees LEDs take centre stage as the widefield illumination method of choice. Featuring eight individually controllable LEDs and lightning fast TTL switching; the pE-800 delivers the highest quality data with minimum total cost of ownership.
Things To Do in San Diego
If you’re travelling to AACR 2026, San Diego is a brilliant place to spend a little extra time. Known for its beautiful coastline, relaxed atmosphere, year-round sunshine and mix of culture, food and waterfront views, it offers plenty to enjoy beyond the exhibition hall. Whether you have a free evening after the event or an extra day to explore, San Diego has no shortage of memorable places to visit and things to do.
| # | Activity | Why Go | Suggested Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Explore Balboa Park | One of San Diego’s best-known cultural spots, Balboa Park combines gardens, walking areas, historic architecture, museums and the San Diego Zoo all in one place, so it’s ideal if you want a classic San Diego afternoon. | Great if you have half a day free. Pair it with the Zoo if you want a bigger outing, or just wander the grounds and gardens if time is tighter. |
| 2 | Visit the USS Midway Museum | A hugely popular waterfront attraction built around the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway, with flight deck, hangar deck and below-deck exhibits. It’s memorable, very San Diego, and easy to combine with other downtown sightseeing. | Allow at least 2 hours if you want to explore properly. Good option for a free afternoon, and easy to pair with a bayfront walk afterwards. |
| 3 | Head to La Jolla Cove | La Jolla Cove is one of the area’s best-known coastal spots, loved for its dramatic shoreline, clear water and abundant marine life. It’s a great choice if you want scenery, sea air and a break from conference halls. | Best in daylight and good weather. Keep a respectful distance from sea lions and other wildlife, and don’t expect it to be a quick in-and-out stop if you end up lingering for the views. |
| 4 | Wander Old Town San Diego | Old Town is a good pick if you want history, character and an easy browse. The State Historic Park preserves early San Diego, with original adobe buildings, museums, shops and restaurants around the historic plaza. | Ideal for a relaxed evening or a lighter sightseeing slot. Wear comfortable shoes and give yourself time to browse rather than rushing through. |
| 5 | Walk the Gaslamp Quarter and waterfront | Right by the Convention Center, the Gaslamp Quarter is one of the easiest areas for AACR attendees to explore, with historic buildings, restaurants, bars, shops and a lively downtown feel. The nearby waterfront is also great for an easy bay walk. | Perfect for post-event food or drinks because you can usually get there on foot from the convention area. Good choice when you only have an evening free. |
About CoolLED
CoolLED specialises in LED microscope lighting and, since our team of four introduced the first commercially available LED microscope light source in 2006, we have led the way in designing and manufacturing cutting edge microscope lighting.
