Interdisciplinary Symposium 2026: From Insight to Impact - Save the Date!

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:

• Professor Fiona Jordan (University of Bristol), whose research on cultural evolution, kinship, and language exemplifies the integration of quantitative and qualitative methods

• 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:

• Short lightning talks highlighting emerging interdisciplinary work

• A dedicated poster and demo session showcasing projects from across the University

• A panel discussion exploring successes and challenges in interdisciplinary student research

• A new participatory conversation space, designed to foster open, inclusive dialogue across disciplines and perspectives

• 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.

Please register using the link here.

Call for Contributions – closes Friday 18th September Share your research, education case studies, or help shape an open interdisciplinary discussion at the Interdisciplinary Symposium on Wednesday 28th October 2026.    We welcome a diverse range of contributions that showcase interdisciplinary research, education, and dialogue. Unique and interactive formats that engage attendees and provide practical insights are highly encouraged.

• 3 Minute flash talks: Open to individuals and teams at any career stage, from early ideas and works in progress, to established or completed projects.

• Posters: Posters should be submitted as a PDF via this form or to interdisciplinary@abdn.ac.uk. The cost of printing will be covered by the Interdisciplinary Institute and presenters may retain their poster for use at future events.

• Demonstrations/ Table Displays: May include interactive models, simulations, digital tools, or mixed media.

• NEW: Long Table Discussions: We are introducing a Long Table–style discussion format, designed to create an open, participatory space for interdisciplinary conversation. Inspired by artist Lois Weaver’s methodology, the Long Table replaces traditional panels with a shared discussion table where dialogue is fluid, inclusive, and shaped by those who choose to take part. There are no passive audiences, participants can join or leave the conversation at any time, contributing ideas, questions, reflections, or listening in as they wish. The emphasis is on informal exchange, curiosity, and collective exploration of complex or emerging themes.

Learn more and submit your abstract here.

Interdisciplinary Institute University of Aberdeen 

www.abdn.ac.uk/interdisciplinary interdisciplinary@abdn.ac.uk