General FAQs
What is Biocord Network?
Biocord Network is a community of Biologists and biology-enthusiasts from all over the world! Our members range from high school students all the way to industry + academic professionals and postgraduates. We bridge the gap between scientists and students by making science education accessible, and providing a platform for aspiring biologists to interact with experienced researchers. We discuss and entertain bleeding edge research, share ideas, and help budding scientists in their journey. We are open to everyone wishing for a peek into academia and the world of Biology!
Why is Biocord Network hosting a virtual Summer Conference?
As our mission is to bridge the gap between scientists and students, we felt that many students, especially in the highschool and undergraduate levels, rarely have the opportunity to attend a science conference. Therefore, we wanted to host a virtual conference, that is free of charge to all attendees, so that students and enthusiasts have the opportunity to experience an event that is often only attended by graduate students, researchers, and industry professionals.
Additionally, as the geographical demographics of Biocord is fully international, it would be impossible to plan an in-person conference that is completely free-of-charge! Therefore, to accommodate all time zones and socio-economic backgrounds, a virtual Summer Conference is the best solution.
How will the virtual Conference work?
The virtual Biocord Network Summer Conference will be held on a virtual platform. Many conferences this past year have been held virtually due to restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic. We realize that this is different from how most scientific conferences operate, but we promise to do our best to make this experience worthwhile for all!
Do I need to pay to attend the conference?
The Biocord Network Summer Conference 2021 is completely free of charge!
Reserve your ticket here
If I register and can no longer attend, what will happen with my registration?
Nothing will happen! We do hope that you’ll be able to attend, but since there are no limitations to attendees (and registration is free), nothing will happen to your registration.
Will events be recorded for future viewing?
Some of the events will be recorded to be streamed at another time. We have decided to do this to accommodate different time zones. However, the publishing of recordings on Youtube for viewing past the conference will be decided by Conference Planners and Presenters.
For Invited Speakers
What platform will we be presenting on?
We will be using Zoom Webinars as well as streaming to Discord to host the conference.
Will there be an A/V test prior to our event?
Absolutely! We will be reaching out to conduct an A/V test prior to the conference, and again on the day of your event!
Is there a Powerpoint layout that I am required to use?
Nope! If your presentation includes a video or audio clip, please make sure to check with our technical team during the A/V check!
How will Q&A work?
We will be collecting questions prior to the event, as well as actively noting questions from the conference chat during your event. They will be transferred to the Event Host for the Q&A session. You won’t have to keep track of the conference chat: we will do it for you!
For Internal Presenters
Who can sign up to present?
If you are at least in high school, you can apply to present! However, as this is a formal event, we are asking our internal presenters to present with their real name, out of respect for our invited speakers.
What presentation topics are allowed?
Anything related to science: it can be your research or science-y hobby!
How can I sign up to present?
Please fill out the form here
Will there be an A/V test prior to our event?
Absolutely! We will be reaching out to conduct an A/V test prior to the conference, and again on the day of your event!
Do I need to “practice” my talk with somebody prior to the conference?
For internal presenters, we may ask to conduct a short test with your 5-min Presentation to ensure that these presentations stay within the allotted 5 minute time slot, and to ensure A/V settings are suitable.
May I pre-record my talk?
5-min Presentations may be pre-recorded: if you have any questions on how, please contact a staff member!
Is there a Powerpoint layout that I am required to use?
Nope! If your presentation includes a video or audio clip, please do make sure to check with our technical team during the A/V check!
For Companies and Corporations
Is Biocord Network accepting sponsors?
Yes!
How can my organization become a conference sponsor?
Please contact our team at staff@biocordnetwork.com
I’d like to collaborate with Biocord Network in the future.
How exciting! Please contact our team at hello@biocordnetwork.com so that we can discuss!
Code of Conduct
Biocord Network Volunteer and Conference Attendee Conduct Guidelines
Biocord Network’s volunteers are the core of Biocord Network and make all of its programs, conferences and educational efforts possible. These offerings provide excellent opportunities for Biocord Network members and conference attendees to gain experience, grow their networks, and enhance their careers. Biocord Network provides scientists, students, and enthusiasts a platform to discuss and celebrate their interests and passionas in science.
At all times, volunteers and meeting attendees should act in accordance with Biocord Network’s Code of Conduct. Biocord Network’s Board of Directors has developed these guidelines to foster a positive environment of trust, respect, open communications, and ethical behavior. These guidelines apply to meetings, conferences, workshops, courses and other events organized by Biocord Network or any of its entities and also to volunteers who conduct other business and affairs on behalf of Biocord Network.
Specifically
Volunteers and meeting attendees should understand and support Biocord Network’s Code of Conduct.
Volunteers and meeting attendees should contribute to a collegial, inclusive, positive and respectful environment for fellow volunteers and attendees, and other stakeholders, including Biocord Network staff.
Volunteers and conference attendees should avoid making inappropriate statements or taking inappropriate action based on race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, marital status, political affiliation, presence of disabilities, or educational background. We should show consistent respect for colleagues, regardless of discipline, employment status, and organizations for which they work, whether industry, academia, or government.
Disruptive, harassing or other inappropriate statements or behavior toward other volunteers, members, and other stakeholders, including Biocord Network staff, is unacceptable.
Volunteers and conference attendees should obey all applicable laws and regulations of the relevant governmental authorities while volunteering or attending meetings.
Violations of this conduct policy should be reported promptly to Biocord Network staff.