Call for Sessions
The Call for Sessions for ICYMARE 2026 BREMEN is now open! Submit your proposal until January 15, 2026.
Call for Session Hosts
ICYMARE invites advanced (MSc or PhD) students – either individually or in pairs – to propose sessions in their field of marine research. Interdisciplinary and creative ideas are especially welcome, and the ICYMARE program team will happily support you in refining your concept.
As an ICYMARE session host, you actively shape the scientific program of ICYMARE 2026 BREMEN. It’s a fantastic chance to practice moderating and making the step-up from participating to leading. To recognize your efforts, your conference fee will be waived.
Before the conference, you:
- Review abstracts submitted to your session and work with presenters to refine their contributions. This task starts on March 15, 2026, when the Call for Abstracts opens.
- Structure the scientific flow of your session once abstracts are accepted and update the ICYMARE program team should changes occur.
- Make sure that all necessary information is communicated clearly, both from ICYMARE to your presenters and from your presenters back to the ICYMARE team. You are the main link between ICYMARE and your session’s presenters.
- Stay in contact with your presenters, check their registration status, and react early if you anticipate any attendance issues.
During your session, you:
- Introduce speakers and their topics.
- Keep the flow of the session, make sure presenters stick to their allocated time, and moderate the Q&A parts.
- Step in with alternatives if a presenter cancels after the program has been released (e.g., open Q&A, discussion, or a short presentation by yourself).
- Work with your ICYMARE support person on any technical or organizational issues.
Session Host Workshops
Chairing a scientific session can seem daunting, especially for first-timers! But don’t worry, you won’t be on your own. All session hosts will take part in mandatory online training workshops. These workshops guide you step by step through the timeline, from abstract review to practical tips for moderating your session.
For ICYMARE 2026 BREMEN, the training is divided into two parts:
- Workshop 1: Abstract review and your first tasks as host. (Spring 2026)
- Workshop 2: Practical preparation for hosting your session on-site. (August 2026)
If you apply as a pair, both of you are encouraged to attend. If only one can make it, they are responsible for sharing all relevant information with their co-host.
Application Process
Applications are open now via the MyICYMARE online conference tool. Please submit your proposal by January 15, 2026, and select your preferred workshop session.
Prepare the following documents for upload:
- A motivation letter (max. one page, PDF format) describing your experience in the proposed topic and why you want to host a session.
- Your most recent CV.
Being a session host is a rewarding way to actively shape the scientific program of ICYMARE 2026 BREMEN. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Scientific Coordination team.
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