Register to Attend
This free event is open to all University of Aberdeen staff and students. Advance registration is required.
Join us for the fourth annual Interdisciplinary Symposium, hosted by the Interdisciplinary Institute at the University of Aberdeen.
Building on the momentum of previous years, Interdisciplinary Symposium 2026: From Insight to Impact will bring together staff and students from across the University to share ideas, showcase innovative work, and explore how interdisciplinary approaches can drive meaningful change.
We are delighted to welcome two distinguished keynote speakers:
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Professor Fiona Jordan (University of Bristol), whose research on cultural evolution, kinship, and language exemplifies the integration of quantitative and qualitative methods
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Heather Kelman (Food Standards Scotland), offering valuable perspectives from the science-policy interface and her experience supporting collaboration between researchers and decision-makers
This year’s programme introduces new opportunities for engagement alongside popular elements from previous symposia, including:
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Short lightning talks highlighting emerging interdisciplinary work
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A dedicated poster and demo session showcasing projects from across the University
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A panel discussion exploring successes and challenges in interdisciplinary doctoral research
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A new participatory conversation space, designed to foster open, inclusive dialogue across disciplines and perspectives
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Informal networking throughout the day
Together, these sessions will engage with Aberdeen 2040’s five interdisciplinary challenge areas: Data & Artificial Intelligence; Energy Transition; Environment & Biodiversity; Health, Nutrition & Wellbeing; and Social Inclusion & Cultural Diversity.
Whether you are looking to share your work, connect with colleagues, or explore new perspectives, the symposium offers a welcoming and stimulating space to reflect on how interdisciplinary insight can translate into real-world impact.
The event is open to all University of Aberdeen staff and students. Full programme details will be released in September.
Get involved
Photos: highlights from previous interdisciplinary symposia
Queries can be directed to: interdisciplinary@abdn.ac.uk