A stylized, minimalist illustration of a globe on a dark blue background.
Global Conference 2026

Part 1: From the Cell to the Cosmos: Funding the Next Era of Discovery

-

Breakthroughs in biomedicine, climate science, and space exploration are reshaping our understanding of life on Earth and beyond. This panel brings together leaders from major science funding organizations to explore how large-scale philanthropy and investment can accelerate discovery across disciplines, from the molecular mechanisms of disease to climate systems and the cosmos. Panelists will discuss how funders can take bold risks, support interdisciplinary collaboration, build durable scientific infrastructure, and translate discovery into real-world impact. The session will also explore how coordinated funding strategies can unlock faster, more equitable, and more transformative scientific progress. 

Stay informed by the Milken Institute

    Moderator

    Image

    Caitlyn Barrett

    Director, SPARC, Milken Institute

    Speakers

    Image

    Sam Gill

    President and CEO, The Doris Duke Foundation
    Image

    Lynda Stuart

    President and CEO, Fund for Science and Technology
    Image

    Elias Zerhouni

    Former Director, National Institutes of Health (NIH); Author, “Disease Knows No Politics”