EGU, Vienna 2015: the round-up

EGU by numbers

In April, the EGU returned to Vienna for their annual Congress meeting. Over 11,837 scientists from 108 countries descended in the Vienna International Centre for the six-day conference. Delegates enjoyed over 4,870 oral presentations, 8,489 posters, and 705 PICO presentations. That’s a lot of science!

The Vienna International Centre – where the magic happens

Science and ice cream for everyone!

As always, the EGU were excellent hosts and organised over 300 side events that included a range of activities, workshops, and networking events for all delegates. Among this year’s favourites were the Geo Cinema, Science Communication workshops, and Ask the Expert panel sessions. Another added bonus this year was the ice cream stall in the foyer – my personal favourite was the pumpkin seed flavour (tastier than it sounds, I promise).

With 23% of delegates being students, and a strong Early Career Scientist contingent, the Young Scientists’ lounge proved very popular, and provided a great social space to grab a coffee, talk to friends, finalise PowerPoint slides, and peruse the latest job adverts.

The exhibition hall where delegates can peruse the latest journals, textbooks, and equipment. And buy their ice creams!

The best bits of Climate: Past, Present and Future

The Climate division hosted over 75 scientific sessions, covering climate science research from the poles to the tropics. We also enjoyed some excellent workshops including an ‘Introduction to climate modelling’ session and a ‘Meet the Editors’ panel discussion with Professor Carlo Barbante (Editor of Climate of the Past) and Professor Axel Kleidon (Editor of Earth System Dynamics).

Thanks EGU and see you next year!

Amid the scientific sessions and workshops, the EGU is always a great place to catch up with old friends and colleagues, and make new collaborations. There is also time to sample the delights of Vienna, while discussing research projects over a Wiener Melange. After another impressively productive and enjoyable conference, we are all looking forward to EGU Vienna 2016!