Please have a look at our most frequently asked questions about the Science Communication Conference.
If your question isn't answered by this page, please do get in touch with the Science in Society team [1].
About the Conference:
When is the Science Communication Conference in 2013?
The Science Communication Conference took place on Thursday 16 and Friday 17 May 2013
Where is the Science Communication Conference held?
In 2013 the Science Communication Conference is returning to Kings Place [2], London, near Kings Cross.
Can I run a session at the Conference?
We have a call for proposals every year for Conference sessions - the call for proposals closed on Friday 11 January 2013.
The Unconference: Over to you - is an opportunity for you to suggest a red hot topic. We will ask delegates for suggestions two weeks before the conference and other delegates will vote for their favourite. The winner will run their session in this slot.
Who organises the Conference?
The Science Communication Conference is organised by the Science in Society team [3] of the British Science Association in partnership with the Wellcome Trust [4].
Attending the Conference:
When will bookings open?
Bookings are now closed.
How much does registration for the conference cost?
Standard bookings (booked after 18 March 2013)
1 Day: £145, 2 Days: £285
Concessionary bookings (eligibility) [5]
1 Day: £110, 2 Days: £215
Early-bird bookings were available until 18 March. If you are eligible for a concessionary rate, you save approximately 25% of the standard rate.
All delegate fees are zero-rated for VAT.
How can I pay for the conference?
All payment is online by credit/debit card through Eventbrite. We are unable to accept cash or cheques. You will receive a booking confirmation, receipt and ticket via email.
Are bursaries available for the Science Communication Conference?
Yes, we have bursaries [5]available to help specific individuals attend the Conference.
Is the British Science Association able to arrange concessionary rates for accommodation?
Unfortunately, we are not able to obtain low-rate accommodation for conference delegates. Hotels within walking distance of Kings Place include Premier Inn [6], Novotel [7] and Megaro [8]. Lower rate accommodation includes Travelodge [9].
Who is speaking at the Conference?
Download the online programme [10] or download the Speaker Information Booklet [11]
I'm new to the Conference, do I need to prepare anything?
No, but we recommend you have a look at what happened at the 2012 Conference [12] to get an idea of the sorts of things that go on at the Science Communication Conference. There will also be a session on the first day of the Conference for those new to science communication which we will send you an invitation to.
How can I cancel or change my booking?
Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to alter your booking in any way.
Cancellations and refunds:
If made before 19th April 2013 we are able to refund 100% of your booking fee (less a £10 admin fee).
If made after 19th April 2013 we are able to refund 50% of your booking fee (includes £10 admin fee) - cancellations must be made before 3rd May 2013. There will be no refunds for cancellations after 3rd May 2013.
Alterations:
If you need to alter your booking in any way (e.g. change the name of a delegate) we are able to change delegate details up to 3rd May 2013. This service incurs a £10 admin fee.
Call for proposals:
If our proposal is successful, do we have to pay for conference tickets?
We offer up to three free one-day passes for your speakers. If you have more than three speakers, we offer discounted rate day tickets for the remaining.
What can we request for our session?
We can provide a laptop, one or two flipcharts, wireless internet and microphones. We will always provide an independent chair or someone to help you keep up the time.
What will be the criteria to choose sessions?
Think about the following when you write your proposal:
- addressing the conference aims [13]
- is about a key issue that is relevant across science communication sectors
- brings together different views about a particular subject. New faces and perspectives of people outside the field are particularly welcome
- has people with the right expertise to deliver the session
- celebrates the differences of the sci comm community and challenges delegates think beyond their specific role
- explores a new session format. Be creative, we suggest a few new formats [14]
- allows for audience participation
Can I propose an exhibition or event for the conference?
We usually do not have exhibitions or events but if you’d like to propose one for the conference, please contact us [1] to discuss its feasibility.