IMMUNOLOGY2024™ FAQ

IMMUNOLOGY2024™
Friday, May 3 – Tuesday, May 7, 2024
McCormick Place, Chicago, IL, USA

What is IMMUNOLOGY2024™?

The largest annual all-immunology event worldwide, The American Association of Immunologists (AAI) annual meeting is where leading researchers come to present and learn the latest in their field. With major lectures from some of the world’s most prominent immunologists, and podium and poster presentations of abstracts, IMMUNOLOGY2024™ features innovative developments from scientists at every career stage. There has never been a more crucial time for the immunology community to gather and share the leading science for which our meetings are known!

Location of IMMUNOLOGY2024™

McCormick Place West Building
2301 South Indiana Avenue
Chicago, IL 60616

AAI Policy Statements

Attendees at IMMUNOLOGY2024™ are required to comply with the following policies,  including:

• Non-Discrimination
  AAI is committed to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment at AAI activities for all participants and protected classes regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, skin color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, sexual preference, age, military or veteran status, marital status, or disability.
• Code of Conduct
  In addition to attempting to provide a safe and welcoming environment for AAI activities, AAI promotes principles of integrity, civility, diversity, and respect. To that end, AAI attendees must comply with the AAI Code of Conduct.

View all AAI policy statements.

Where Can I View the Program?

The AAI scientific program can be viewed on the IMMUNOLOGY2024™ website.  

Abstracts

Registration Dates

When does registration open?
Early Registration: December 12, 2023 – April 4, 2024
Regular Registration: April 5, 2024 – May 2, 2024
On-site Registration: May 3, 2024 – May 7, 2024

What are the on-site registration hours?
Friday, May 3: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, May 4: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday, May 5: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Monday, May 6: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday, May 7: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tuesday, May 7: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Registration Fees

Speaker Ready Room (SRR)

The SRR is on Level 1, Room W183C, of the convention center.

Friday, May 3: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday, May 4: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday, May 5: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Monday, May 6: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday, May 7: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Presentation Information and Instructions
Session room PCs will be provided with the following configuration:

• Processor: a minimum Core i7 2.93 GHz
• 16 GB RAM
• 1920 x 1080 at 24-bit color depth
• Microsoft Windows 10 Professional
• Microsoft Office 2019 Professional
• Windows Media Player (Latest Version)
• QuickTime (Latest Version)
• Flash Player (Latest Version)
• Acrobat Reader DC (Latest Version)
• Laser pointer/slide advancer
• Podium and aisle microphone
• Screen
• Audiovisual technician
• NO internet access.

All electronic files must be submitted in the Speaker Ready Room using one of the formats listed below:

• PowerPoint 2022 or earlier version
• Operating System: Media should be PC Formatted
• Video Playback: Windows Media Player; QuickTime
• PDF Reader: Adobe Acrobat
• Unix Users: Bring HTML Files or Adobe Acrobat

For best results, PowerPoint 2022 users should save their presentations in those versions’ native .pptx format, and not in the PowerPoint 1997-2003 format.

If you are a Mac user and need to use your own Mac computer to present, accommodation can be made to hook up your Mac to the Projection System. Please bring your computer to the Speaker Ready Room at least two hours before your talk so that we can confirm which output connector will be required to display your computer to the in-room system. Please arrive to the session room early with your computer and power supply so that we can connect the computer and test it before the session starts.

Uploading your presentation:

• Remotely: Starting Tuesday, April 2, 2024, you will be able to upload your presentation to our A/V provider. Visit the IMMUNOLOGY2024™ Abstracts page and look for the “Upload Presentation” button. You may revise and upload your presentation as many times as needed up to two hours prior to the start of your session.
• On-site in the SRR: If not previously uploaded, presentations should be brought to the SRR on a flash drive.

NOTE: Please be in your assigned session room at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the session and check in with the AV technician when you arrive.

Social Events

Opening Night Welcome Reception: A Taste of Chicago
Friday, May 3, 6:15 PM – 7:30 PM
Following the President’s Address, join us for the Opening Night Welcome Reception. Connect with friends, make new acquaintances, plan your week—and enjoy stations of iconic foods for which Chicago is famous! One complimentary drink token is included. Registered attendees aged 21 years or older only.

IMMUNOLOGY2024™ Gala
Monday, May 6, 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Aon Grand Ballroom, Navy Pier
The Aon Grand Ballroom, which is part of the Navy Pier’s original 1916 construction and reminiscent of an era of elegance and splendor, is a stunning and unique Chicago locale for the IMMUNOLOGY2024™ Gala! The venue embodies the magnificence of the past, with a sweeping 80-foot domed ceiling and panoramic views reflecting the beauty of the Windy City. Tickets for the Gala, as well as discounted tickets for the 200-foot-high Centennial Wheel, which offers 360-degree views of Chicago and Lake Michigan, will be available for purchase during the registration process. Attendees must be 21 years of age or older.

Can I purchase event tickets for my guests?
The Opening Night Welcome Reception is for registered attendees only.

You may purchase a guest ticket to the Gala for $75. These can be purchased when you register during the meeting registration process.

Exhibit Hall

What are the hours of the Exhibit Hall?
Saturday, May 4: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday, May 5: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Monday, May 6: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

What Activities Can I Find in the Exhibit Hall?

Exhibits and Exhibitor Workshops
Leading scientific companies and organizations will be showcasing their products and services in the exhibit hall, and each day, 12 exhibitor workshops will be held covering a wide range of topics (see a listing of exhibitors and workshops on the meeting app or on the IMMUNOLOGY2024™ website).

AAI Member Lounge
Rest and revive between sessions. Here you’ll be able to recharge batteries (both yours and your devices) and engage with other members and AAI representatives.

It’s Back! The Passport to Prizes Raffle
Get your IMMUNOLOGY2024™ passport stamped by participating exhibitors and enter to win a $250 gift card.

IMMUNOLOGY2024™ Poster Gallery
See, hear, and learn what your colleagues have been working on as they share their new research. Posters change daily, and two sessions will be held each day.

Personal Brand Bar (tentative)
Invest in you with a visit to the Personal Brand Bar to update your professional headshot or get a makeover for your LinkedIn profile.

Romper Room (tentative)
Come and de-stress with some puppy love. Sit and feel the stress leave your body as puppies romp around and snuggle with you.

How can my company become an exhibitor?
Visit the IMMUNOLOGY2024™ website for complete information on exhibiting or send an email to exhibits@aai.org.

General Information

Where can I purchase food during IMMUNOLOGY2024™?
McCormick Place provides a variety of options for meeting attendees, including: 

• West Hall Food Court. This eclectic food court offers several options to choose from, including Food Love, Little Italy, Pacific Rim, American Grill, Fiesta Brava, Express to Go Sandwiches, Salads and Snacks. Located on level 2 of the West Building.
• West Hall Café F1 and Café F2. Located on the show floor, food concepts include a Mediterranean Pizza Oven and Paninis, Gourmet Burgers and Chicken Sandwiches. Also, try the Express to Go Sandwiches, Salads, and Snacks.

To see more options, visit the McCormick Place Food and Beverage Service page.

How can I get a letter of invitation?
Download the letter of invitation template.

I am considering bringing my family with me. May I do so?
Children aged 13 and older are welcome to attend IMMUNOLOGY2024™ if accompanied by a registered adult. Children under the age of 13* may not attend and are prohibited from entry into the Exhibit Hall, session rooms, or hallways in the meeting area. No children will be allowed entry into social events.

*Babies under age 1 who are being carried or in a baby carrier (i.e., baby sling; no car seats/strollers will be permitted) may accompany their parent/guardian in the Exhibit Hall only. Babies may not be placed on the floor or left unattended.

Is childcare available?
On-site childcare will be provided during IMMUNOLOGY2024™. More information will be posted once arrangements are finalized.

*AAI and its officers, employees, and agents assume no responsibility and accept no liabilities with respect to these services.

May I bring a nonscientist guest to the sessions?
Unfortunately, we do not have guest passes. All attendees must be registered to attend the sessions and Exhibit Hall.

Does AAI offer CME credits?
Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits are NOT offered for this meeting. AAI, however, adheres to conflict-of-interest policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education. AAI requires all speakers at AAI-sponsored meetings or programs to inform their audiences of their academic and professional affiliations and to disclose any significant monetary interests or other relationships they may have with the manufacturer(s) of any commercial product(s) discussed in their presentation.

What is the dress code?
We want you to be comfortable so you can enjoy your meeting experience. Business casual dress is strongly encouraged. We suggest bringing a light sweater or jacket with you during the day because meeting rooms are air-conditioned.

Do you record any of the sessions?
Many sessions are being recorded for on-demand use after the meeting. Attendees are prohibited from photographing and recording (audio or video) scientific sessions, including posters. Violators will be asked to delete photographs or recordings and may risk expulsion from the meeting.

How do I submit a session suggestion for IMMUNOLOGY2024™?
Please bring your suggestions to AAI Exhibit Booth 725 during Exhibit Hall hours. Staff are there and ready to listen to your suggestions! You may also offer suggestions when completing the annual meeting survey, which is sent to all attendees afterward.

Luggage Storage
Luggage storage will be available. Check back here for details. AAI is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings.

Distribution of Handouts

AAI allows the distribution of promotional materials and approved related items from Exhibitors only in their booths. No materials may be distributed outside (hotels, convention center lobby, session rooms, etc.) without permission of AAI.

Attendees and exhibitors can post job opportunities on the AAI on-site Jobs Board. Please check back here for additional instructions when available.

Poster Printing

Please visit the PosterSmith website to have your poster printed on wrinkle-resistant fabric posters. Poster presenters will get a 30% discount on the order and complimentary shipping and handling through April 10, 2024. After April 10, presenters can use coupon code “AAI2024 coupon” for a $15 discount.

Meeting Hotels

PLEASE NOTE: onPeak is the official housing service for IMMUNOLOGY2024™. No other organization may claim to represent AAI for housing.

Beware of scams: Please do not give personal information or your credit card number to anyone who contacts you offering housing for IMMUNOLOGY2024™. Any organization other than onPeak is NOT endorsed by or affiliated with AAI.

Are hotel discounts being offered?
Discounts are being offered through the IMMUNOLOGY2024™ website only. Please visit the IMMUNOLOGY2024™ Hotels page to book your hotel. If you contact the hotels directly, you will not be able to receive the AAI discount. The AAI discount expires on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

Will I receive confirmation of my hotel reservation?
Yes. A confirmation of your reservation will be sent to you, via email, immediately after making your reservation. The confirmation will come from the official housing company, onPeak.

PLEASE NOTE: A final confirmation with your hotel confirmation number will be sent within two weeks of your arrival. The confirmation will come from onPeak and NOT from the hotel at which you will be staying.

Will I be refunded if I need to cancel my hotel reservation?
Cancellation policies and fees vary by hotel. To find your hotel’s policy, choose your hotel option and then click on “view hotel policies” (this can usually be found under the nightly rate).

Is there any shuttle service to and from IMMUNOLOGY2024™ hotels?
Shuttle service to the convention center will be provided between hotels not within walking distance of McCormick Place West Building. Those hotels with shuttle service are indicated by a bus icon in the list of available hotels on the IMMUNOLOGY2024™ Hotels page. Details will also be available on the mobile app.

Mobile App

Get the most out of the meeting by downloading the official IMMUNOLOGY2024™ mobile app. The app will be available on April 4, 2024. Check back here for details.

Photography

May I take photographs throughout the meeting?
Attendees are prohibited from photographing and recording (audio or video) scientific sessions, including posters. Violators will be asked to delete photographs or recordings and may risk expulsion from the meeting.

Please note: During poster hours, if you have the permission of the author, you make take photographs of a poster. Authors are permitted to photograph their own posters.

Social Media

Share your experience online with the official meeting hashtag, #AAI2024. Follow AAI on these social media platforms:

Transportation

Closest Airport
There are two major Chicago airports—O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. O’Hare is one of the busiest airports in the country, with dozens of airlines flying to and from its four terminals. Midway is much smaller, with just one main terminal with three concourses. If you’re planning to travel to or from a destination abroad, O’Hare is most likely where you’ll go, although Midway does offer some international flights.

Are there any airfare discounts?
No.

Transportation
Both airports are easily accessible via public transportation. The Airport Express shuttle service provides transportation to/from the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Hotel (which is connected to the convention center) at a service fee. For more information, please contact Airport Express at 888-284-3826 or on the web.

There are also multiple public transportation options to consider for getting around Chicago. For details on everything from taxis to trains, visit the McCormick Place Transportation page.

McCormick Place West Building

Accessibility
McCormick Place strives to create the best possible experience for all guests. Assistance includes assisted hearing devices, mobility services, accessible parking, and more. To learn about all available accessibility services, visit the McCormick Place Accessibilty page.

Address
2301 South Indiana Avenue
Chicago, IL 60616

ATMs
Cash machines are available in each building: South Level 2.5 in the Convenience Center; North Level 2, across from Connie’s Pizza; West Level 1 near the Transportation Center, and Lakeside Level 2, near the Arie Crown Theater box office. All cash machines accept American Express, VISA, Master Card, Cirrus, and Plus cards.

Business Center
McCormick Place has a FedEx Office on-site for guests. Services include copying, printing, computer rentals, document finishing, presentation services, and shipping. The FedEx Office is located on Level 2.5 of the Grand Concourse in the South Building. It is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM.

Satellite stores are also located on Level 2 in the West Building and Level 2 in Lakeside Center. These are open based on event activity in the facility.

First Aid Center
McCormick Place provides wheelchair-accessible first aid stations in each building:

• Lakeside Center – Level 1 nearby the Arie Crown Theater Dressing Room Entrance
• South and North Buildings – Level 2.5 of the Grand Concourse nearby the FedEx Office
• West Building – Level 1 nearby the Transportation Center

They are operated and staffed by licensed medical professionals. Stations are fully equipped and include automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to respond to life-threatening occurrences.

* Hours of operation and location are based on event activity in the facility.

Information Desks
The Information Desks at McCormick Place are the checkpoints for information about events in the facility and available McCormick Place services in the following locations:

• South Building, Level 1
• West Building on Levels 1 and 3
• Lakeside Center on Level 3.

Lost and Found
To claim lost property, visit the McCormick Place Lost Property page and provide the information listed there. A response will be sent to your email within 48 hours during the standard business work week (Monday through Friday) if your property is recovered.

Nursing Mothers’ Lounges
McCormick Place installed 3 private nursing pods called Mamava Lactation Suites. These pods are located in the:

• Lakeside Center, Level 2, by the Gift Shop
• North/South Level 2.5 across from Starbucks
• West Level 1 near the Main Information Desk on Indiana Avenue

Please download the Mamava Mobile App to unlock the suites.

Parking
There are three main parking lots on the McCormick Place campus. All are in close proximity and walking distance to our convention complex and are ADA accessible. Visit the McCormick Place Parking page for details.

Restrooms
There are multiple restroom locations throughout the venue, including some designated gender neutral.

Wi-Fi
McCormick Place offers a complimentary basic Wi-Fi service throughout all public spaces, meeting rooms, ballrooms and designated areas on the exhibit floor.

Visit the official convention center website for more information about McCormick Place.