The conference conundrum

For the past 10 years, there have been increasing calls – in papers, comment pieces and throughout academia – to rethink how conferences are structured. The arguments are familiar, whether it’s the lack of childcare arrangements discriminating against women, concerns around travel or the rising costs impacting students.

Yet few could imagine the Covid-19 pandemic, and its immediate impact; overnight, conferences were cancelled or moved online as scientists were required to stay at home. Now, as the world begins to move out of the shadow of the pandemic, it’s a golden opportunity to reflect on scientific conferences. Are they still fit for purpose – or has the pandemic shown we can do them in a better way?