About the Annual Conference

About the Annual Conference

The BRISMES conference is the largest and most prestigious annual UK gathering of scholars and practitioners focusing on the region. The event moves around the country as it is hosted by a different UK university every year. At the conference, BRISMES invites researchers from all disciplines to explore that year’s theme or to present any aspect of their Middle East Studies research. You can propose an individual paper, panel and/or roundtable, receive feedback from academics working on similar themes, and attend as a publisher or non-presenting delegate. The 2024 annual conference will take place in person in Lancaster, a vibrant city in Lancashire surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside in England.

Highlights

  • Lancaster University will be the 2024 host for our annual conference;     
  • Two days and a half of inspiring panels, roundtables and talks;     
  • A welcome reception on July 1;
  • Dinner on July 2 with a music event;
  • A publishers’ exhibition;
  • Two keynote speeches from renowned academics in the field of Middle East Studies.

The Conference Venue 

The 2024 BRISMES Conference will take place in the Lancaster University campus across three venues: the Margaret Fell Lecture Theatre, the Faraday Complex and the Country South Lecture Theatre, all within proximity. The campus stands on a stunning 560-acre parkland site, 3 miles from Lancaster city centre. It has a modern and equipped library, learning and sports facilities, cafes, bars and a multi-faith centre, amongst other amenities.

Access and Support 

BRISMES strives to make our annual conference accessible for delegates with additional needs. Lancaster University has invested heavily in accessibility and disability support, and the campus site is flat and generally accessible. If you have any questions about access and support at the conference, please write to conference@brismes.org.

Conference Rates 

We are happy to announce that in 2024, conference rates for presenting and non-presenting delegates will remain unchanged. As usual, BRISMES members will benefit from subsidised rates. You can take a look at the registration fees here

Bursaries

The Solidarity Fund 

In its aims towards a more inclusive in-person event, BRISMES will operate a Solidarity Fund for colleagues without institutional funding or facing financial hardship. While we try to prioritise early career scholars, we also recognise that there is a need for flexibility, as many colleagues are increasingly cut off from financial support. Please note that the Solidarity Fund covers accommodation, visa and registration costs only. The call for bursary applications will open in January 2024. 

Childcare Bursaries 

In 2024, we will continue to provide a number of childcare bursaries for delegates needing on-site childcare. The number of bursaries offered will be announced after registration.

Database of Expertise

The Database of Expertise in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies provides a publicly available list of MENA experts with their research and areas of expertise.

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