SETAC Europe 36th Annual Meeting

We have assigned each first-time attendee to a group of 4 persons based on mutual interests. To make the most out of this opportunity, individuals in each group are encouraged to:

1. Introduce themselves: Prior to the meeting, individuals are encouraged to send a short email introducing themselves and what they are working on or interested in.
2. Meet up: Arrange a meeting with your fellow first-time attendees. We recommend meeting on Sunday before the Opening Ceremony, joining the ceremony together, and then attending the Welcome Reception.
3. Follow up: Agree on further meetings during the poster socials or attend sessions and networking and social events together.

Ensure you plan time for these prime networking activities: 

• Welcome Reception on Sunday from 19:00-20:30: Kick off the conference by meeting exhibitors and fellow attendees in a relaxed setting while enjoying some drinks and bites.  
• Poster Breaks and Networking Breaks: Presenters are encouraged to be at their poster during the poster & networking breaks and poster socials. These sessions are great for in-depth discussions on specific research topics and foster one-on-one interactions. Engage with presenters!
• Exhibitors: There are lots of exhibitors from various sectors eager to talk to participants. Visit the exhibitors and learn about the latest products and services in environmental science.
• Interest Group Meetings: SETAC Interest Groups provide an opportunity for people interested in the same topic to connect. Attend meetings of SETAC's interest groups, which are open to all, to connect with others who share your specific scientific interests.

The Student Advisory Council is organising a range of events especially for students and early career scientists. Make sure you attend those events: 

Student Lunch: Career Perspectives: This student lunch invites students, recent graduates, early career scientists and senior members of SETAC for a short networking session while having lunch in a relaxing atmosphere. No pre-registration is needed. Participation for students, recent graduates or early career scientists will be on a first-come, first-served basis, right before lunch starts!

Students Evening Event: Toxic Tales: Join this interactive and engaging session, and enjoy some drinks and snacks while reflecting on stereotypes, belonging, and career paths in science. Pre-registration for this event is not required. However, please note that room capacity may be limited, so be sure to arrive on time.

SETAC Europe Student Advisory Council: Join the SETAC Europe Student Advisory Council during the Student Advisory Assembly and learn about their activities, plans, and contribute your thoughts.

While we are sure you have heard them before, take a moment to remind yourself of those tips for effective networking. 

• Plan Your Schedule
  • Organise your conference schedule to balance attending sessions, networking, and personal time.
• Know Who's Attending
  • Look at the list of presenters, chairs and exhibitors beforehand. Identify key individuals you want to connect with based on their research and your interests. Formulate thoughtful questions related to their work. This shows genuine interest and can spark engaging conversations.
• Engage in Sessions
  • Attend sessions and actively participate by asking questions. This can help you stand out, be remembered and to continue the conversation after the session or at the poster exhibition.
  • Jot down key points from presentations and discussions. These notes can be useful for follow-up conversations.
• Attend Special Sessions
  • Special Sessions often provide more interactive environments compared to traditional sessions. Engage actively to build connections with both speakers and fellow attendees.
  • Collaborative Opportunities: Look for opportunities to collaborate on projects or research with individuals you meet in these sessions.
• Join Networking Breaks
  • Use breaks and meals to network. These informal settings can be great for starting conversations and building rapport.
  • Join the Welcome Reception and the SETAC Party 
• Prepare Business Cards
  • Have professional business cards ready to exchange with new contacts. Ensure they include your name, title, affiliation, and contact information.
  • Consider using digital business card apps for quick and easy sharing of your contact details.

• Be Mindful of Body Language
  • Maintain open and positive body language. Smile, make eye contact, and avoid crossing your arms, as these can make you appear more approachable.
  • Show that you are listening by nodding and responding thoughtfully. This demonstrates respect and interest in the conversation.
• Prepare an Elevator Pitch
  • Develop a concise and compelling elevator pitch about your research and professional goals. This can help you quickly convey your interests and expertise. Practice delivering your pitch confidently and naturally.
• Follow Up
  • After meeting someone, follow up with an email or connect via LinkedIn to maintain the relationship.
  • Try to personalise your message. Reference specific points from your conversation to show that you were engaged and interested.
• Stay Organised
  • Keep a record of the people you meet, including their contact details and any notes about your conversations. This can help you manage follow-ups effectively.
• Finally, plan some time to relax, unwind and recharge!