Rare Advocate Development (RAD) Brain Workshop
Presented by Rare Epilepsy Network, Global Genes & Mahzi

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3rd Annual Rare Advocate Development Workshop
San Diego, CA
Feb 2-5, 2027
Applications open now.
Apply here.
For more information, contact: info@rareepilepsynetwork.org
Purpose
Three-day intensive small group workshop trains participants to confidently advance drug development and research goals for their communities. Focused on the development of Central Nervous System (CNS)–based therapies and designed for rare disease patient advocates who are already funding or directly engaging in research. The program blends expert-led learning with practical skill-building in areas including brain structure and function, in vivo and in vitro research tools, diagnostics, therapeutic modalities, IND-enabling studies, clinical research, and regulatory pathways.
Impact
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Direct interaction with thought leaders - including CEOs of some of the most innovative therapeutic development companies, along with experts pioneering legal and regulatory practices.
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Unparalleled insights into the cutting edge of drug development and regulatory science
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Open pathways for lasting partnerships
Agenda*
*The agenda varies based on the demands of the participants.
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Overview of Drug Development and Therapy Modalities
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Brain Structure & Function
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In Vitro and In Vivo Models
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Clinical Trial Readiness: Registries, Natural History Studies, Biomarkers & Endpoints
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Clinical Trial Design
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Regulatory Strategy
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Manufacturing Strategy
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Intellectual Property & Licensing
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Finance & Partnering
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Case Studies
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Presentation Skills
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NEW Half-day Session on Drug Repurposing (May 2026)
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NEW Chief Scientific Officer Convening (Feb 2027)
Previous Workshops

1st Annual RAD Workshop
New York, NY
January 2025
Hosted by CURE
"For a new organization like ours, it was very valuable to get to know the community and the KOLs in many areas relevant to rare disease therapeutic development."
- RAD Workshop Participant



