Frequently Asked Questions

Find some quick answers to your questions about this year’s Annual Meeting

Find answers to some common questions on this page:


Registration

How do I register for the in-person event?

Registration is now open for the BES Annual Meeting. You can find more information and links on the Registration page. Members of the BES are entitled to reduced rates, though you do not need to be a member to attend – everyone is welcome!

How do I book a pre-conference workshop or the Annual Meeting Party?

You can book for the party or the pre-conference workshops during the registration process. Select from the Workshop section and Additional Activities section and these will be added to your total. The pre-conference workshops are running concurrently and so you can only choose one.

What is your cancellation policy?

  • If cancellation is received before 17:00 (GMT), Thursday 31 October, the full registration fee will be given.
  • If cancellation is received after 17:00 (GMT), Thursday 31 October, but before 17:00 (GMT), Monday 11 November, 50% of the registration fee will be refunded.
  • No refunds will be given after 17:00 (GMT), Monday 11 November.

Can I request an invitation letter for my visa application?

We can provide invitation letters to those attending our Annual Meeting and attendance certificates after the meeting. We do not get involved in the visa process other than providing these letters. Invitation letters will only be provided to those who have submitted an abstract, been accepted as a presenter, and registered for the event.

Applicants must also provide us with:

  • A scan of their valid in-date passport that contains a photo of them.
  • An academic CV and the correspondence address for the letter.
  • A letter of support from their institute, saying they support the delegate attending the meeting.

This must be carried out in good time before the meeting, “last minute” requests will not be processed. Some systems block the sending of sensitive data (eg passport scan). If you are having issues with this, get in touch with events@britishecologicalsociety.org. We should forewarn delegates requesting visa letters that a video/phone call MAY be required in some circumstances.

Can I book a group?

Group bookings of up to 6 can be made online and paid by card.


Abstracts and presentations

When can I apply to present at this year’s Annual Meeting?

The abstract submission process is open from 18 July and close on 3 September. You can submit here.

When will I hear whether my abstract submission has been accepted?

We plan to let everyone know the outcome of their application by 23 September.

Can I choose the time and date of my presentation?

The BES Annual Meeting has over 700 presenters and we are unable to manage individual requests for specific dates and times.

When will I learn the date and time of my presentation?

Presenters will be informed about the date and time of their presentations in November. If you are accepted to present, please ensure you are available from the 10-13 December 2024 as we are not able to accommodate individual requests to swap presentation times.

Can I apply to run a workshop or thematic session?

The deadline for applications to run a workshop or thematic session has now passed.


Programme

When will the programme be launched?

The full programme is launched in November/early December.


Travel grants

Are there any travel grants?  

We are pleased to be able to support a limited number of students, researchers and ecologists who are a citizen of/and working in a Global South country to attend our Annual Meeting each December, with grants of up to £1000. Learn more about the grants available here.


The Venue

Where is BES2024 being held?

We are delighted to be returning to the ACC Liverpool for this meeting and, if you would like to make the most of your visit  you can find out more on the VisitLiverpool website.

Where can I find accessibility information for the convention centre?

You can find detailed information about disability access at ACC Liverpool on their website. Please get in touch with events@britishecologicalsociety.org with any specific requests or questions regarding access or requirements.


Scam Emails

The British Ecological Society does not sell its delegate list, or offer it to other organisations for them to sell. If you receive a communication which offers to sell you the delegate list, please ignore and delete.