Lab Lunch Week 2026
Celebrating the Society’s 150th anniversary!
It all started in a London townhouse in 1876
On 31 March 1876, a group of physiologists came together with a shared vision to establish the Physiological Society. On that day, 19 physiologists gathered for an informal meeting, chaired by John Burdon-Sanderson. This meeting lay the foundations for the vibrant global community that we know today.
This year, Lab Lunch Week, taking place from 30 March 2026, honours the tradition where scientific exchange took place over a shared meal. Physiologists all around the world are invited to gather with colleagues to pause and connect.
Pushing the boundaries of discovery
As we celebrate this historic anniversary, we also look ahead. Our Editors-in-Chief put forward three thought-provoking questions to inspire discussion, reflection, and fresh ideas for the future of physiology:
- How should physiology evolve to study complex, real-world biology rather than isolated systems?
- How can physiology better inform major societal challenges we face such as climate change, and health inequality?
- How does the study of physiology provide a unique framework for understanding how environmental conditions affect biological systems across multiple levels of organisation?
Post using #ShapeTheNext150
Throughout Lab Lunch Week, we encourage you to post your picture on social media and to flood the feeds with physiology!
