Pitcon, the nation’s premier annual conference and exhibition for experimental science, is celebrating its 77th annualth The annual Pitcon, held March 7-11, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas, was a huge success. Thousands of academic and industry leaders in analytical chemistry and spectroscopy gathered at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center for a week of unparalleled scientific programming and a vibrant exhibit floor.
Image credit: Pitcon
Hundreds of exhibitors flocked to the show floor to showcase the latest innovations in equipment, sample preparation and laboratory software. Dozens of new instruments have been launched by some of the most powerful companies in the analytical chemistry and spectroscopy industry, including Shimadzu, Xylem, and Waters.
It’s always a win to share our technology and present new possibilities to those who didn’t know it existed. In our conversations with Pittcon 2026 attendees, it was especially exciting to meet so many first-time attendees. Their energy and enthusiasm for what they were seeing and experiencing made the event even more impactful. ”
Nicki Janus, Fritsch Milling & Sizing, Inc. Administrative Manager
The number of first-time participants, as well as undergraduate and graduate students, increased rapidly, adding a youthful energy to the conference. Tammy Yallum, Executive Director of Pitcon, said: “Today’s students and early professionals are tomorrow’s buyers and leaders. One of our goals is to preserve and honor our history while welcoming the next generation to the Pitcon community.”
Highlights of the Pittcon 2026 program include:
- Wallace B. Coulter Lecture featuring 2018 Nobel Prize Laureate in Chemistry, Dr. Francis Arnold.
- Waters Symposium featuring 2025 Nobel Prize Laureate in Chemistry, Dr. Omar Yagi.
- First Mary Warga Symposium Celebrating Women’s Leadership and Innovation in Science. Ann Chow, former CEO of AT&T Business, appears.
In addition to the serious endeavors of scientific research, the expo hall also featured a number of fun and entertaining activities, including:
- Mascot Race Featuring Dr. Pete Conn of Pitcon
- Pitcon Pet Play Area and Adoption Zone
- The Science and Tasting of Texas Hot Sauce and Whiskey
- Live armadillo lecture and networking event
The next Pittsburgh will be held April 24-28, 2027 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh is the location of the city’s headquarters, and this will be the first time in 60 years that the event will be held in Pittsburgh. Additional information about Pittcon 2027 can be found at pittcon.org.
