Connecting Astronomers: A Conference for Collaboration

In July 2024, an international astronomy conference took place, aiming to connect Researchers from Africa and Europe. The goal was not only to discuss the latest scientific ideas but also to create a friendly space for Networking. This was especially important because many African researchers have not had the same opportunities as their European counterparts to attend such events.

#Purpose of the Conference

This conference was a chance to bring together people who share a passion for astronomy but come from very different backgrounds. The hope was to bridge the gap between those who have easy access to international events and those who have been left out. In the past, many African scientists have struggled to find their place in the global scientific community.

We worked hard to make sure that the conference was not just about science but also about supporting relationships between researchers. We wanted Participants from all backgrounds to feel included and appreciated.

#The Importance of Astronomy

Why focus on astronomy, you might wonder? Well, astronomy is not just about looking at the stars; it can be a powerful tool for development. It can help with education, boost economies through technological advancements, and promote peace among nations. In Africa, interest in astronomy has been growing, partly due to major projects like the Square Kilometre Array (SKA). This ambitious project is set to be a game-changer for the continent.

However, despite this growth, many challenges remain. These include limited opportunities, difficulties in retaining young talent in higher education, and problems with access to international resources.

#Conference Details and Themes

The conference, called "AGN Populations Across Continents and Cosmic Time," was designed to address cutting-edge issues in astronomy. We focused on four main themes related to supermassive Black Holes, which are like the big bosses of galaxies. When gas falls into these black holes, it lights up and sends out energy, which affects the entire galaxy.

The conference featured discussions about understanding these phenomena. We wanted to showcase research from Africa and to encourage collaboration between European and African researchers.

#Selecting Participants

We wanted a balanced group of 110 participants, with a goal of having 30-50% from African institutions. This was important for making sure that voices from Africa were heard. The selection process was crucial: we had a committee of experts who helped choose participants based on their scientific work, but we also aimed for diversity.

Once participants were selected, we focused on ensuring that they had the Funding needed to attend. For many African researchers, travel costs can be a significant barrier. We provided full funding for 35-40 participants to cover travel, visas, and accommodation.

#Supporting Participants

Once we selected the participants, we sent out invitations six months ahead of the conference. This long lead time gave everyone enough time to sort out travel and visa applications. Some visa processes can take quite a while, so starting early was key.

For the participants in need, we covered costs directly, which made it easier for them. They only had to cover visa and insurance costs, and we helped them navigate those tricky applications.

We learned that it's crucial to ensure good communication throughout this process. It’s important for participants to speak up if they face challenges, so we encouraged them to ask for help whenever they needed.

#The Conference Program

When the conference kicked off, we had plenty of activities planned to help participants network. We set up various sessions for people to meet and discuss their research interests.

Before the conference, we started a "Buddy" system to pair African early-career researchers with those from Europe. This system was very popular and helped build friendships long before the conference even began.

During the conference, we had a mix of formal talks and breakout sessions where people could choose topics to discuss. This allowed for more organic conversations, and we found that participants enjoyed this freedom.

#Social Events

Social events played a key role in making the conference successful. We organized a welcome reception, a conference dinner, and even a sightseeing tour of Newcastle. Participants were encouraged to wear outfits that reflected their cultural backgrounds, which was a fun way to celebrate diversity.

Interestingly, we chose not to focus on alcohol at social events. This decision created a welcoming atmosphere for everyone, allowing people to relax and connect without pressure.

#Evaluating the Conference

After the conference, we conducted a survey to gather feedback. The results showed that many participants felt comfortable in discussions and appreciated the networking opportunities. Most of them rated their experience positively.

We received a lot of encouraging comments, with participants expressing their enjoyment of the balance between scientific discussions and social interactions. Many appreciated the chance to meet researchers from different backgrounds, creating new connections that could lead to future collaborations.

#Long-Term Impact

Although it’s too soon to see the full effects of the conference, early signs are positive. Many participants expressed interest in attending future events and were enthusiastic about the possibility of planning another conference, potentially in Africa.

We created a platform for participants to share their work and to help foster ongoing collaborations. We already know of several new projects that have emerged as a result of the conference.

#Summary

This conference achieved its goal of bringing together diverse voices in the realm of astronomy. It fostered a sense of community among researchers from Africa and Europe, proving that collaboration can lead to growth and innovation.

The feedback has been overwhelmingly supportive, and participants left feeling energized and hopeful for the future. We learned important lessons about inclusivity, the importance of early support, and ongoing communication.

As we look ahead, we are excited about the potential for new partnerships and discoveries that began at this gathering. We believe that by working together, researchers can address global issues and contribute to a brighter future in astronomy and beyond.