What is the value of going to a scientific meeting?
There has been a lot of press recently about how scientists are cutting back on traveling to meetings and conferences. Many scientists have had grants canceled by the current administration, and/or funding delayed by the recent disruptions to normal government function. In response, some scientists are deciding not to travel, with attendance at a number of recent scientific meetings being noticeably lower than in previous years.
In truth, there has never been a more important time for scientists to come together than right now. Science is under attack in the United States, and scientists are stronger when we stand together. Meetings and conferences represent opportunities to talk with colleagues from other places, compare notes on how our institutions are dealing with this unprecedented time, and formulate plans of action for moving forward.
Of course, scientific meetings are also premier opportunities for staying at the cutting edge of your field. You get to see into the future, and learn about the latest, hottest results before they are published in journals. Research these days moves at a breakneck pace, so you gain an edge with sneak previews of the coolest new ideas that might inspire breakthroughs in your own projects.
Most importantly, scientific meetings are the ultimate networking opportunity. Whether you are hunting for a job, looking for someone to hire, or searching for just the right collaborator, there is no better way to make connections than by actively participating in a meeting.
For this reason, ASPET is taking steps to ensure that anyone who is interested can attend the annual ASPET meeting (May 17–20, 2026, in Minneapolis), even if they have suffered a recent hardship. In addition to the student and post-doc travel awards offered every year, ASPET is also providing new Supporting Our Scientists (SOS) travel awards, which provide funds to attend the annual meeting for members who have been affected by reduced, delayed, or cancelled funding.
There truly has never been a more important time for scientists to come together, so let’s hit the meetings in 2026 to network, share ideas, and continue strengthening the scientific community!
Sincerely,
Randy Hall, PhD
President, ASPET
