This is the second annual review of the British Thoracic Society Winter Scientific Meeting held from 7-9 December 2011, which was attended by over 2000 delegates. Although a wide spectrum of respiratory research was presented at the meeting, the content of the review focuses specifically on three key themes: cystic fibrosis, pulmonary vascular disease and thoracic oncology. Advances in clinical and translational respiratory research presented within the major symposia and spoken sessions related to these areas are summarised. Additional sessions recognising topics relevant to the forthcoming 2012 London Olympics are also highlighted.