The conference creates an opportunity for young Polish scientists who live and study abroad to meet, build a network of contacts and discuss Poland’s participation in the development of science and technology. Organised by two student societies – Cambridge University Polish Society and Oxford University Polish Society with the support of LSE SU Polish Business Society – the conference is divided into three main topic sessions including life sciences, physical and mathematical sciences and economics.
One of main aims of this conference is to popularise science, while also enhancing the cooperation between its British, Polish and European branches. The SPP team believes that providing young Polish students and researchers with a platform where they can present their work as well as learn and draw inspiration from each other is one of the best ways of developing the huge potential they have as individuals and as members of a fast-growing scientific community.
Participants presentations are the highlights of the whole event. Each speaker has only 15 minutes to explain to the audience what their research is all about. Topics are extremely varied: from molecular biology, through psycholinguistics, up to star formation.
On top of that, each presentation session starts with a longer talk, given by one of the keynote speakers. Renowned scientists with wide experience preset their current work, inspiring younger generation and providing valuable insight and advice. This year, amongst others, the conference will host Professor Agnieszka Zalewska, last year’s chair of the CERN Council and Professor Michał Heller, philosopher.
During the SPP conference, participants also have the opportunity to take part in the variety of workshops and improve their skills, such as team work and creative problem solving, but also practical skills needed in the world outside research.
Apart from that, organisers of the conference give their participants many opportunities to talk and do some networking during coffee and lunch breaks, posters sessions, bowling, dancing, sightseeing and punting with Cambridge and Oxford students.
The first edition of the conference was held in Oxford in October 2012. It proved to be a huge success, with almost 150 participants, this year, organisers expect to attract an audience of appriximately 300.
More information about the conference can be found on: Science. Polish Perspectives website or FB.
Photo © Science. Polish Perspectives
