We invite you to submit your proposal for a session, designed to actively engage participants rather than simply present information. These 60 to 90-minute sessions can address a range of theoretical, educational, or research-based topics. We suggest the session content should relate to the conference theme or our main topics, but need not be limited by them.

Whether you are an experienced professional, an early career researcher with fresh insights, or a team of professionals tackling complex issues, we welcome proposals from all backgrounds. We encourage submitters to design sessions that are fully thought through with all speakers involved, and that actively engage participants to foster dialogue, interaction, and new perspectives. While traditional formats are accepted, we strongly encourage proposals that promote interactive and innovative approaches.

Your session proposal should contain the following: 

• Session title: title should be succinct and clearly reflect the specific topic of the session (avoid use of copyrighted terms) (24 words limit).  

• Session summary: provide a brief description that could be used in promotional materials. It should identify who will benefit (100 words limit). 

• Describe the objectives of your session in detail and explain how it will contribute to enhancing the FEMS MICRO programme (400 words limit).

• Session format - select from the drop down menu when submitting: 

1. How-to session: Tutorials for novices or experts with 1-2 speakers. Addresses a specific topic or issue and provides practical lessons learned. Also, group or solo exercises (e.g., writing examples, brainstorming) may be applicable here.   

2. Interactive panel: Panellists (maximum of 4 plus one moderator) present case studies from multiple perspectives facilitated by a moderator. Moderator will facilitate formal Q&A or polling with the audience and panellists for a minimum of 15 minutes. 

3. Fishbowl: A dynamic discussion format where a small group engages in conversation while the audience observes, and participants from the audience can join the conversation as it progresses. 

4. Idea Pitch Session: Participants pitch ideas or solutions to a problem, followed by audience feedback and discussion. 

5. Workshop: A hands-on session where participants engage in activities or group work, focused on skill-building or problem-solving. 

• Justification for Session Format - Explain why you selected this format and how it will enhance audience engagement and achieve your session objectives (100 words limit).

• Audience type - knowledge level base, select from the drop down menu when submitting:

1. ECR – Early career researcher 

2. Intermediate - Intended for individuals who already have a basic knowledge of the topic/subject area, and are looking to further their understanding of the subject matter. 

3. Advanced - Appropriate for seasoned professionals and experts, this level assumes the audience already grasps the intermediate elements of the topic and is seeking to explore the topic/subject matter with a more in-depth perspective. 

• List the key takeaways that you want the audience to have during the session (100 words limit). 

• List of suggested session contributors and roles:

1. Session Chair: Responsible for the overall flow and moderation of the session, including managing speakers and keeping time. 

2. Speakers: Should represent diverse perspectives and expertise, ideally blending experienced and early-career speakers.

• List any references that are relevant to the content of your session submission. 

• Topics : refer to the topics listed and select up to two that best fit your submission. This will help the review committee place your abstract in the appropriate session.