Empowering Bioscience Professionals: SEB Conference childcare unveiled for Prague 2024

Discover how SEB is revolutionizing conference experiences for bioscience professionals with affordable, high-quality childcare services at Prague 2024.

As bioscience professionals, we understand the intricate balancing act between career aspirations and familial responsibilities. This delicate equilibrium often becomes even more challenging when navigating the conference circuit.

The Society for Experimental Biology recognizes this struggle and is proud to announce the continuation of its highly subsidized on-site childcare services at the SEB Annual Conference in Prague 2024.

In academia, where conferences play a vital role in networking, sharing research, and career advancement, the presence of childcare barriers can significantly impede professional growth. SEB's commitment to fostering an inclusive community is exemplified through its provision of affordable childcare, starting from just £10 per half day. This initiative aims to alleviate the burden on parents, particularly junior academics, who face the dual challenge of advancing their careers while caring for their families.

SEB's partnership with Nipperbout, an award-winning event childcare company, ensures that parents can engage fully in conference activities with peace of mind. The creche, staffed by qualified professionals, offers a stimulating environment where children can learn and play, with activities tailored to their interests and needs.

Feedback from previous attendees underscores the invaluable role of SEB's childcare services in facilitating conference participation. Parents and carers have lauded the program for enabling them to present their research, network with peers, and engage in professional development opportunities without sacrificing family commitments.

For Prague 2024, Nipperbout's creche will adopt an exciting "Spy Academy" theme, promising age-appropriate entertainment and educational activities. From laser courses to treasure hunts, children will embark on a journey of discovery while their parents immerse themselves in the conference experience.

Spaces for childcare are limited, so delegates are encouraged to pre-register to secure their spot. SEB remains dedicated to creating a supportive environment where every member of the community can thrive, both personally and professionally.

Book your spot for the childcare by clicking here.

Stay tuned for the full article, which will be featured in the upcoming SEB Spring Magazine 2024, where you can delve deeper into our commitment to supporting the bioscience community.

For inquiries or further information, please contact our events team at [email protected].

Authors

Ana Colombo

Outreach and Engagement Officer, SEB

Ana joined the SEB team in May 2022. Her main role is to contribute to planning and delivering scientific education and outreach projects while promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion and supporting members with their career development. She holds a Master in Psychobiology and a PhD in Biochemistry. During her research career, she worked within different biology fields, from neuroscience and behaviour to fungal infection and extracellular vesicles. She also has experience working in educational settings, such as a museum and a botanical garden, and a social mobility charity.

Rebecca Ellerington

OED Manager, Society for Experimental Biology

Rebecca joined the SEB team in May 2020 and, despite not meeting anyone in person yet owing to COVID restrictions, she has immediately bonded with the other team members and is already making significant contributions to our outreach, education, and diversity work. “While I have a background in both bioscience research and outreach work, throughout my career the most exciting times have been when I’ve taken my passion for research and science and tried to communicate that to groups outside my field,” says Rebecca. “It’s great to see people who wouldn’t normally interact with science get excited about research. If I can use my new role to help other SEB members to do that too, I think it will be brilliant for research, for career development, and for personal enjoyment.”

One issue Rebecca feels very strongly about is increasing diversity in science and academia. “Diversity and equality is not only fair, but the unique perspectives and individual experiences each person brings to the table will help us solve the immense scientific challenges we are facing today. In this role, I hope to introduce initiatives to inspire the next generation, no matter their background, to pursue a career in bioscience, and help SEB members develop valuable career skills in the process by getting involved.”