Summary - Center for Working Well Research Conference

The Center for Working Well Research Conference brings together scholars who care deeply about conducting rigorous, relevant research that helps people work well. Throughout the day, we’ll explore what it means to study work in ways that genuinely improve how employees lead well, feel well, relate well, perform well, and more—and how we, as a field, can build science that truly matters.

Our sessions will span the full research process, from early-stage ideation and iteration to late-stage refinement and translation. You’ll engage in thoughtful conversations with scholars across career stages and walk away with concrete insights to strengthen both the rigor and the real-world impact of your work.

All registrants will receive an email in early spring with details on how to share your work and participate in the program.

What should I expect? Our program is thoughtfully curated for scholars in our field to develop their research, envision the future of scholarship, build impact, and experience community. There will be sessions that focus both on ongoing research and on development as a scholar. We will also have plenty of time to build connection over meals, coffee, and our signature “popcorn with a purpose” popcorn bar. This is an opportunity to prioritize yourself as a scholar and your work as you begin your summer.

How many attendees will there be? We are planning an intimate conference of up to 75 guests. We want this to be a place that you can see old friends and co-authors, build new connections, and be a part of an intentional and thriving scholarly community. Be sure to register soon to secure your spot!

Can PhD Students attend? We welcome the next generation of Working Well scholars. PhD students are invited to attend, with the expectation that they are post-comprehensive exams and sponsored by a faculty member from their institution who is also attending the conference. This helps ensure students can fully engage in the research-focused conversations and benefit from meaningful mentorship throughout the day. We’re excited to include emerging scholars whose work contributes to rigorous, relevant research on working well.

Do I need to have a paper to present? The program will include many opportunities to share research across project stages. We will reach out to all attendees in early Spring with more details. For now, we hope you will start to think about which research project(s) you would like to include in the program.

When does the conference begin? Join us for an informal welcome toast Monday, May 18th at 4:30 at the Union Hotel Bar. Then join a small group of colleagues for dinner around town (details to come). The official CWW conference programming kicks off around 9:00am Tuesday, May 19th.

When does the conference end? The programming will be wrapped at lunch on Wednesday, May 20th. We will have boxed lunches to grab and take for a picnic on campus, on the road to the airport, or wherever your day takes you.

How do I get to West Lafayette? To travel to West Lafayette, we recommend flying into Indianapolis International Airport. Shuttle services to and from Purdue’s Memorial Union where the conference hotel is located are provided by Lafayette Limo; select “State St. Bus Stop (South of PMU)” shuttle drop off. Alternatively, Uber/Lyft services are available as well. Click here for additional travel information.

When: May 19 - 20, 2026

Where: Purdue University, Rawls Hall (100 S Grant Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907) & Tuesday night dinner at Ross Ade Stadium (850 Steven Beering Dr., West Lafayette, IN 47907)

Hotel Information: The Union Club Hotel (201 Grant St, West Lafayette, IN 47906), named the Best Boutique Hotel by Boutique & Luxury Lodging Association, was built in phases from 1929-1953, an addition to the Purdue Memorial Union. Reimagined for a new generation, the hotel is now part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, the only student-run Autograph in the world. The aesthetics of a traditional dorm and classic décor are inspired by Purdue’s colors and history. Steps away from iconic Purdue attractions like Ross-Ade Stadium, enjoy the comfort and convenience of being right on campus. Please see accommodations tab to secure your hotel room.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ROOM TODAY

Registration Deadline: Register by February 1, 2026 to secure your spot!

Accessibility & Accomodation: Purdue is committed to making its programs accessible to individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation or special assistance for this program due to a disability, please contact us at confreg@purdue.edu.