Call for thematic sessions

Thematic sessions provide a high-profile forum for the discussion of timely, innovative and/or important questions, provide local ‘flavour’ within the programme, and showcase integration among disciplines. We support submissions from across the full spectrum of ecology. However, this year we are particularly interested in proposals with a focus on: 

• Agroecological futures
• Ecosystems, carbon capture, and a route to net zero
• The ecology of pathogens
• The role of ecology in wider society
• The UN decade of restoration

In line with the spirit of Ecology Across Borders, we would like to encourage submissions where there are strong collaborations across institutions and countries.

Structure

Thematic sessions usually comprise of one 30-minute plenary and six additional 15-minute talks. Organisers are responsible for ensuring that the presentations are correctly ordered within the session, speakers submit their abstracts, speakers register for the meeting, and for chairing the session. 

Application Process 

Proposals for thematic sessions must be completed on the form at the bottom of this page and include the following: 

• Proposed title of the thematic session 
• Name(s) and email address(es) of the session organiser(s)
• A summary of the subject area
• Justification of the thematic session (novelty, timeliness, synthesis etc.)
• Name and email address for a proposed keynote speaker, plus a provisional talk title 
• Names, emails addresses and provisional talk titles/subject areas for the six other potential speakers 
• Steps taken to ensure that the proposal reflects the diversity of the ecological community.

Please note, we do not offer funding for thematic sessions, but encourage thematic organisers to consider sponsorship opportunities if funding is required. 

An academic review panel will assess all submissions. The selection process is competitive, as we usually receive more than 40 proposals for between eight and twelve programme slots. 

Please submit your thematic session proposal, using the form below, to the Events Team by 17:00 (BST), Wednesday 26 May. 

Coronavirus

We continue to follow the latest government advice regarding the coronavirus outbreak and how this might affect our joint Annual Meeting. As it stands, we are continuing to make plans for an in-person event whilst exploring additional online elements.

We will consider online sessions for those that are not able to attend the event in person. Proposals will first be agreed based on their merit and we will then be in touch with successful thematic organisers to discuss formats in more detail.

Creating an inclusive environment for ecologists 

We are committed to promoting an inclusive ecological community and all thematic session submissions must consider equality and diversity. Each proposal should be developed with the BES Equality and Diversity statement in mind. The diversity of thematic session organisers and speakers is therefore a key criteria used when assessing thematic session submissions.