Special Interest Research Group meetings
Explore shared interests and future collaboration within IASSIDD’s research groups
Special Interest Research Groups, or SIRGs, bring together IASSIDD members who share a common research or practice interest within the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities.
SIRGs provide a space for exchange, collaboration and discussion around specific topics. They help connect researchers, practitioners, self-advocates and other stakeholders who work on related questions.
During IASSIDD Europe 2026, some SIRGs will hold meetings as part of the congress program. These meetings offer an opportunity to learn more about ongoing activities, meet colleagues with similar interests, and discuss future collaboration. In the table below, SIRGs with scheduled meetings are linked to further information.
| SIRG | Contact |
| Wednesday, 29th July, 4.30-5.15PM | |
| Aging | Philip McCallion |
| Challenging Behavior and Mental Health | Markus Kosel |
| Ethics | Petra Bjorne Sabine Schaper |
| Inclusive Education | Hefziba Lifshitz |
| Wednestday, 29. July, 5.15-6PM | |
| Inclusive Research | Fionn Angus |
| Parenting | Laura Pacheco |
| Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities | Bea Maes |
| Quality of Life | Ivan Brown |
| Health | Christine Linehan Genevieve Breau |
| Comparative Policy and Practice | Chris Bigby |
In addition, the SIRG Comparative Policy and Practice will host a round-table during the pre-conference day on July 28, from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.