Proposing a New Fusion Conference

Frequently Asked Questions

• This is my first time attending a scientific conference. What should I do?

  Any scientist will tell you that conferences are a valuable networking opportunity, so turn up prepared with business cards and be ready to mingle and sell yourself. If there are group activities available, sign up to them as soon as you can to ensure you don’t miss out – group activities are well known for being the relaxing and friendly environment that really propels new connections and collaborations.

  If you are bringing a poster, ensure you give it to one of the Fusion team as soon as possible so they can put it on display for you. The earlier the better so your poster receives as much exposure as possible.

  For practicality, ensure you’re on time for all talks, and try and attend every one. Also something that can be forgotten about – it can be impossible to accommodate everyone’s wishes on the temperature of the conference room! To ensure you’re as comfortable as possible, best to wear a light, short sleeved top and bring a sweater/cardigan to throw over the top in case the air con is a little chilly. Conference dress is casual – many attendees wear shorts which is necessary in warm climates!

  Do you have special dietary requirements? Please let the conference organiser know as soon as you book so we can accommodate your needs.

• What is a typical day like at a Fusion conference?

  We usually aim for an early start, buffet breakfast included. The morning is filled with talks, interspersed with regular coffee and networking breaks. There is usually a four hour break in the afternoon allowing delegates to enjoy some free time – this could be at the beach, at a group activity or even just catching up on emails over lunch if need be. The afternoon has further talks prior to dinner, whereby there may be organised group meals for you to attend. At some of our all-inclusive venues you’ll have a choice of where you’d like to dine and with whom.

  Conferences start on day one with our registration, where you can collect your name badge and learn more information about the next 4 days from your conference manager, before starting for the afternoon. Starting later in the day enables many scientists to fly in that day, reducing the need for booking an extra night. The last day of the conference aims to end by noon allowing some to return home that day but for those looking to combine the trip with a vacation, extra nights and family members can be booked via Fusion.

  Usually day two includes an exclusive Student Networking Lunch as an ice-breaker for junior faculty, as well as a two-hour poster session (dependent on the number of presenters). Following this, we end day 3 with our renowned Fusion Gala Dinner – a large group meal with live entertainment, to encourage guests to let their hair down, get up on the dance floor and network late into the evening. We find that most collaborations are started after our dinners due to the extremely friendly and relaxing atmosphere.

• What is included in the rate?

  Fusion’s registration fees are unique and normally include 3 nights’ fixed accommodation and a food & beverage package for the duration of the conference. More detailed inclusions for particular conferences can be found under the ‘Prices’ tab on the conference webpage.

• Do Fusion Conferences provide grants or funding if I require financial assistance?

  The amount of funding available for grants varies for each conference. Please send any requests for funding to the Fusion team for review including your name, a brief description of your current research and an abstract for talk or poster consideration.