DataSHIELD Conference 2025

The DataSHIELD Conference is an annual community meeting dedicated to fostering collaboration among researchers, developers, and users of DataSHIELD software. Unlike traditional conferences, this informal, discussion-oriented event provides a unique opportunity for participants to engage in in-depth conversations, networking, and brainstorming future projects in a relaxed and open setting.

The 2025 edition will be hosted by the SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics at the University of Lausanne (UniL), Switzerland as an in-person event. The programme will include a mix of talks, training workshops, demonstrations and discussion sessions relating to the development and use of the DataSHIELD software.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Opening Keynote | Amadou Gaye, PhD Ass. Prof & Chair, Dept. of Integrative Genomics and Epidemiology, Meharry Medical College
Amadou Gaye is a leading expert in genomics and privacy-preserving data analysis in collaborative health research.
🔗 Google Scholar | ORCID

Closing Keynote | Ross Stiven Product Manager, Aridhia
Ross Stiven specializes in secure data environments and federated analytics, shaping the future of privacy-preserving research.
🔗 LinkedIn

The primary objectives of the DataSHIELD Conference are to:

• Promote cross-collaboration between groups using DataSHIELD,
• Facilitate networking and discussions on upcoming projects, collaborations, and software developments,
• Offer an in-person space for community-driven exchanges, free from the constraints of formal presentations.

Whether you're a longtime DataSHIELD user or new to the community, this is the perfect opportunity to connect, share insights, and help shape the future of privacy-preserving data analysis.

This conference is designed for anyone interested in using, applying, or advancing DataSHIELD, including:

• Newcomers exploring DataSHIELD for the first time or considering novel applications,
• Current users applying DataSHIELD in research and practice,
• Developers working on new statistical methodologies, functionalities, or infrastructure.

DATASHIELD TRAINING WORKSHOPS Registration fees 60 CHF / Participants (40 CHF / PhD & Students)

Tuesday 23 September 2025 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Join our hands-on training workshops designed to help participants deepen their understanding of DataSHIELD:

• Introduction to DataSHIELD – A beginner-friendly session covering the fundamentals of DataSHIELD and its applications.
  
• Advanced DataSHIELD Development – A deep dive into developing new DataSHIELD packages, tailored for those looking to extend its functionality.

These workshops are optional and open to all skill levels. More details to follow.

MAIN CONFERENCE Registration fees 350 CHF / Participants (250 CHF / PhD & Students)

Tuesday 23 September 2025, 4:30 PM – Friday 26 September 2025, 3:00 PM

Tuesday 23 September
4:30 PM | Conference Opening
5:00 PM | Opening Keynote

Wednesday 24 September – Friday 26 September
Full Conference Days – Featuring talks, demonstrations, and discussion sessions
Friday 26 September | Closing Session at ~3:00 PM

Social Events
Tuesday 23 September (Evening) | Welcome Reception
Wednesday 24 September (Evening) | Conference Dinner (Details to follow)

Location: University of Lausanne

Abstract submissions open in early April 2025. Stay tuned for more details!

We welcome contributions on a wide range of topics, including but not limited to:

• DataSHIELD applications across fields such as epidemiology, oncology, radiology, immunology, and beyond,
• DataSHIELD in global research collaborations,
• Enhancing data privacy in analysis,
• Advancements in differential privacy and secure encryption,
• Federated machine learning,
• Federated mathematical and computational modeling.

Contact & organization

Host Organization (SIB) The SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics is responsible for conference registration, event logistics, abstract submissions, and overall programme coordination. For inquiries, please contact:

• Mark Ibberson
• Etienne de Rham
• Manuela Pruess
• Muriel Metrailler