Annual Conference 2018

#Microbio18
Tuesday 10 to Friday 13 April
ICC, Birmingham, UK 

Annual Conference 2018 is almost upon us, and our programme offers a wide range of topics and talks to appeal to all microbiologists. The Conference this year includes over 100 invited speakers from around the world, and four days of presentations, networking and professional development. Don’t forget that this year’s Annual Conference runs from Tuesday to Friday, and because we sold out last year we urge you to register as soon as possible to secure your space, as well as book for our social events. Registration will close on Monday 19 March.

We have ensured that there is significant value to your Annual Conference ticket and it is worth knowing that all rates are subsidised for members, without compromising on what you get as part of your attendance. Below are just some of the highlights that are included in the ticket price.

Admission to all scientific sessions

Our daily programme is jam-packed with topics, talks and presentations throughout the day featuring top quality speakers from leading research institutions in the UK and around the world. You do not need to book for individual sessions, which means you are free to move between any sessions that interest you. Please note that every session does have a room capacity, so make sure you’re in the right place at the right time to ensure you get a seat. 

Full access to the trade exhibition

We have already sold all of the exhibitor stands, with the final spot taken up in November 2017, highlighting how important the Annual Conference is with major companies wishing to showcase their latest products and services. Exhibitors are a key part of the Conference, and it is highly recommended that delegates visit and speak to the exhibitors to find out about the latest opportunities in the field of microbiology.

Full access to poster sessions

The Annual Conference attracts hundreds of posters each year and this part of the Conference is a highly coveted opportunity to display your work on a large scale. Delegates get access to view posters and speak to presenters on a daily basis. There will be three poster prizes in 2018, read more on p. 44.

Hot buffet lunch, plus tea and coffee breaks every day

Conference consists of long days and requires a lot of concentration! So, to help you keep your momentum, we have ensured that you have access to regular refreshments and delicious hot buffet lunches and puddings! All of which are included in your daily rate.

Inclusive drinks vouchers 

You will find two drinks vouchers inside your badge for each of your registered days at Conference, to be used at the evening poster and drinks receptions. Each voucher can be exchanged for a soft drink, a glass of wine or a beer while you are viewing posters and networking with speakers and other delegates.

Conference material

On arrival, you will receive a Conference Guide to help navigate the Conference, and identify which speaker you want to hear and what sessions you wish to attend. This guide works in conjunction with the online programme, allowing you to search for speakers and to add calendar updates to electronic devices. You can also view our poster abstract book and read speaker abstracts online. 

Annual Conference Social Programme 2018 

Pre-Conference Networking Event

We are delighted to once again host this fabulous and important networking event. This event is aimed to assist new Conference delegates or refresh repeat visitors on how to make the most of the networking opportunities throughout the week. Join us for £20 on Monday 9 April in Hall 11 at the ICC from 18:00–20:00; includes dinner and refreshments.

Society Quiz and Games Night

Put your thinking caps on for the second annual Society quiz. Tickets are £22.50 and the price includes an American-style buffet, a welcome drink and an additional drink ticket. The quiz will start from 20:00 and conclude around 22:00, but that is not the end of the night or the competition. You will have private access to the games in the bar, such as shuffleboard, table football and pool. Book your ticket on the Society website now to avoid disappointment. 

Conference Party

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the last night at the Conference with a fantastic Oompah band show. The amazing Bavarian Stompers will put on an action-packed show starting at 20:00, with real German bierfest music, and lots of comedy and audience participation. Guests will enjoy a Bavarian-style buffet dinner and refreshments. Tickets cost £30 per person. Places are strictly limited, so book early to avoid disappointment. 

 

Prize Lecture Winners

Peter Wildy Prize

Tansy Hammarton University of Glasgow, UK
17:40–18:30 Tuesday 10 April

Microbiology Society Prize Medal

Jill Banfield University of California, Berkeley, USA
09:00–09:50 Wednesday 11 April

Fleming Prize

Sarah Coulthurst University of Dundee, UK
17:40–18:30 Wednesday 11 April

Marjory Stephenson Prize

Geoff Smith University of Cambridge, UK
09:00–09:50 Thursday 12 April

Unilever Colworth Prize

Sharon Peacock London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK
17:40–18:30 Thursday 12 April

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Images: Society quiz and games night. Shooters Sports Bar Birmingham. Conference party. The Bierkeller Bavarian Bar Birmingham.