Vienna, Austria – February 2, 2026 – The European Congress of Radiology returns to Vienna next month, offering a unique meeting experience for the global imaging community. Taking place on March 4–8, the congress will bring together thousands of radiologists, radiographers, researchers, and industry partners to explore the latest scientific developments, technological innovations, and future directions shaping medical imaging.
“Radiology is one of the most dynamic medical specialties and one that unites clinical and technical progress”, stated ECR 2026 Congress President Prof. Minerva Becker. “At ECR 2026, we want to encourage all participants to share and take away their own ‘Rays of Knowledge’, contributing to a forum of professional and scientific exchange like no other. This congress will provide a learning experience that cannot be matched, offering true value to attendees wishing to expand their professional expertise and create unforgettable memories in the process. I look forward to welcoming you all to this monumental event.”
The scientific programme once again forms the backbone of ECR 2026, bringing together thousands of lectures delivered by leading experts from around the world. Besides the latest scientific research and established formats such as “New Horizons” and “Special Focus” sessions, three new session formats will debut this year, adding fresh perspectives to the programme. “Subspecialities on Stage” will spotlight selected radiology subspecialties and current topics shaping their development, while the new “How We Do It” sessions will address essential aspects of radiology practice through a more interactive, experience-driven approach that encourages audience participation. Poster presentations also evolve this year, with EPOS oral presentation sessions reintroduced under the new name EPOS™ PULSE, reflecting a more dynamic presentation format. And finally, the new “Out of the Box” sessions take radiology out of the realm of medicine and apply it to the world of art and history, exploring how imaging can be used for alternative academic purposes.
The congress will open with an immersive Opening Ceremony featuring live music from renowned performers alongside striking visuals. Titled Light the ceremony will create an atmosphere that truly embodies the ‘Rays of Knowledge’ theme.
Four plenary speakers take to the stage this year in three plenary sessions that tackle some of the most influential topics in modern radiology. Dr. Nina Kottler and Dr. Charles Kahn will examine the rapid rise and current challenges regarding artificial intelligence in radiology, Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor will explore the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganise itself through her lens as a neuroanatomist and stroke survivor as well, and Prof. Valérie Vilgrain will focus on advances in liver imaging.
Artificial intelligence remains a key topic at ECR 2026. This year’s In Focus programme, The Art of Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Practice, will explore how AI is transforming radiology from practical clinical applications to broader philosophical considerations such as realism and bias. Additionally, both the AI Theatre and Pixel Pandemonium make a welcome return, offering insights into the latest developments in machine learning, big data, and deep learning, and their impact on workflows and diagnostic accuracy. Joining these programmes, The Cube also makes a comeback with the theme ‘Unconventional. Interventional’, providing a creative hands-on learning environment for anyone interested in the field of interventional radiology in the unique atmosphere of the simulator adventure park.
International and professional exchange remain key pillars of ECR, with ESR Meets sessions once again providing insight into radiology practice across different healthcare systems. This year’s participating countries are France, Japan, Switzerland, and the United States. The congress also being the official meeting of the European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS), attendees can further expect a full programme dedicated to radiography.
Popular congress highlights such as connAction sessions on multidisciplinary collaboration, hands-on workshops, ECR Studio sessions and the beloved Escape Room will also return, alongside many of the session formats and features that attendees are warmly familiar with.
The industry exhibition will once again showcase the latest products and services from across the medical imaging sector, accompanied by a comprehensive industry programme including workshops, studio sessions, and symposia. A standout feature will be the House of FUJIFILM, where participants can engage in immersive workshops, live demonstrations, and collaborative learning experiences.
ECR 2026 will deliver a vibrant social programme, with the return of established highlights such as the Radiographers’ Evening and the ECR Party. This year, to create the ultimate dance experience, the ECR Party will take place in a brand-new setting at the Hofburg Palace. Tickets for both events are now available here.
To ensure accessibility for a global audience, ECR 2026 will continue to offer extensive opportunities for remote participation, with many sessions available live and on demand. Sustainability also remains a key priority, with the congress once again offering discounted train travel options for participants travelling to Vienna by rail or travelling from the airport into the city with the City Airport Train (CAT), supporting more environmentally responsible travel choices.
The ECR 2026 programme can be viewed here.
Registration for ECR 2026 can be done here.