 |  |  |  |
|---|
ISBPE Transition to an All Online Conference
The International Society for BioPhysical Economics has determined that it is necessary to transition all in-person conference content previously scheduled to take place at the BioStation in Flathead Lake, Montana USA to the online conference. The online conference is scheduled to take place on September 7 thru 10, 2021. This change is an unavoidable consequence of the ongoing public health and safety concerns created by the COVID-19 pandemic.
We know that this is an enormous disappointment to everyone who enjoys and benefits from the in-person conference experience. This is not a decision we have taken lightly. Two overriding concerns brought us to this decision. First is the continued uncertainty of the virus and its potential variants as we move into fall. Second is the lack of reliable, consistent travel guidance given to our speakers and participants by their parent institutions and/or governments. This lack of predictability has made it impossible for many of our speakers to commit to the in-person conference experience within the timeline provided by the BioStation. ISBPE must make non-refundable deposit payments to the various contractors that help produce our in-person conference 60 days prior to the conference date. With many participants unable to financially commit to an in-person venue, the executive committee is unable to commit to an in-person event.
ISBPE has chosen to use the funds previously allocated to the in-person conference to waive the online conference fees for all students. We know that many students face significant long-term financial challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In times of crisis, it is more important than ever that we consider the needs of everyone in our community. To this end, ISBPE wants to ensure that all students have the ability to attend this year’s conference independent of their financial circumstances.
We thank the BioPhysical Economic community for its support and ask for patience as we navigate these challenging times. There is no better way to support BioPhysical Economic research than by purchasing and partaking in this year’s online conference. We look forward to seeing you in September.
Kind regards,
Executive Board
International Society for BioPhysical Economics