Early Career Life Scientists' Symposium
Teams of early-career researchers can apply to organise a one-day symposium on a scientific theme and format of their choice.
The Physiological Society, the Biochemical Society and the British Pharmacological Society will together contribute £3000 funding for an in-person, hybrid or entirely virtual event.
Who can apply?
Each member of the committee must be an early career researcher, within five years of completing their most recent, relevant university qualification. Applicants do not need to be members of The Society to be considered. Proposals must be inclusive of all three disciplines of the supporting societies.
What is available?
The opportunity to organise an event to develop your networks, work with other scientists, raise your profile in the scientific community, and manage a budget.
Each of the three sponsoring societies contributes £1000 providing a total of £3000 to support the symposium.
When can I apply?
The call is closed and will open again in September 2025 for symposia in 2026.
How do I apply?
Applications should include:
- An outline of the subject and reasons for choosing it
- Preliminary programme and speaker list
- Provisional budget plan, including any sponsorship raised if needed to cover extra costs
- Details of other events that could be part of the conference, such as a careers fair or social event
- CV from each committee member
- Supporting letter from each committee member’s supervisor
Representatives from each society will review all proposal applications. The successful applicants will receive guidance and support throughout the organisation process, although you will be the primary organiser.
Please note the exact date of the ECLS will be decided in consultation with the three societies taking into account each society’s events calendar.
Additional top tips to organise your event
- Encourage attendees to submit abstracts and select oral communications from abstract submissions
- Choose invited speakers as a draw for the symposium, many high-profile speakers are willing to accept invitations
- Think about raising sponsorship to cover extra costs such as prizes
- Consider including opportunities for professional development such as networking sessions, CV, clinics, careers events, workshops
- If hosting an in-person symposium, find a venue in larger accessible cities – your university campus could work well
- Think about how you will market your event
- Read about the experience of the 2019 organising team here