Volunteer at BES2024

Being a Helper

Volunteering as a Helper is a great opportunity to be at the heart of the conference and learn how our Annual Meeting is run behind the scenes. You’ll be working with speakers, thematic session organisers, the BES, the venue, and on various events taking place throughout the meeting.

You do not need to have attended an Annual Meeting before and we encourage those new to scientific conferences to apply. You’ll be a part of a friendly team of volunteers, a great way to navigate your first conference and make new friends from around the world.

Helpers will need to attend the event in person and assist the conference staff 50% of time at the meeting (not including the conference social). We will work with you to create a schedule which allows you to be in sessions which interest you – an opportunity to meet fellow ecologists in your field. Additionally, if you are presenting a talk or poster we will ensure that you are free to do so.

Instead of the usual registration fee you will be asked to pay a £50 deposit, which will be returned to you after the meeting, subject to the Code of Conduct below. Please note that we are not able to cover the travel or accommodation expenses of volunteers.

Who can apply

Please note that these positions are primarily for students, retired members and those seeking employment or study in an ecology related field that don’t have access to funding to attend conferences.

Applications will be considered irrespective of background; however, we strongly encourage applications from individuals who face or have faced barriers to their career development; this may be due to being from an underrepresented group and/or due to other factors (such as caring responsibilities).

If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch.

Please note, places are limited, and if we receive a large number of applications, we may close submission early.

If you are interested in being a Helper, please download the Code of Conduct for Volunteers below and read carefully. If you are happy with it, please sign and upload the document when instructed on your online application form below.

Application deadline: 17:00 (BST), Friday 30 August.

Notification if successful: w/c 26 September

Testimonials from 2023 Helpers

“It was a great experience! Working as a helper is a great opportunity to make new friends, colleagues, and research collaborations.”

“Great! There was enough time to enjoy the conference and be involved. The team did an excellent job of being welcoming and inclusive and I would recommend it to anyone looking to meet like minded individuals.”

Apply Now

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