Why do I have to fill out the registration? Didn’t I already fill out an application?

The registration form serves three purposes, including: (1) confirms your intent to participate in the conference which informs our planning, (2) details your programmatic interests to help develop topical content and track participation, (3) provides a summary of your specific programmatic contributions which will be collated and curated into a conference proceedings.

What if I want to volunteer?

Awesome! We need you! Email the Bio Summit organizers at info@biosummit.org and be sure to include in your subject line: "Volunteering for the Bio Summit 5.0"

Why is this site password protected?

We are very serious about security—and also fun! In attempt to host a seamless event, GCBS programs are only accessible to registrants. Please do not share this website or access passwords publicly.

What language and time zone will most events use?

Our events and programming will all be in English, and the times for our programming are listed in Eastern Standard Time (EST). You can use a time zone converter, for example this one here.

What’s the best way to share about Bio Summit on social media?

Feel free to tag us on social media! We are @biosummit on Instagram and @globalbiosummit on Twitter. Please try to use the hashtags #biosummit and #communitybio on your posts!

What is Hello World? How do I participate in it?

Every morning at Bio Summit, we take some time to get to know each other. In 15 seconds, each participant gets a chance to tell the rest of the community about themselves and their projects. Just because we’re virtual doesn’t mean we have to lose this important part of the magic of Bio Summit!

Upload a Hello, World video to share with the community!

How do I access the Google Drive and what do I use it for?

Participants and attendees will be able to access all conference notes, Miro white boards, and more interactive content through our shared Global Community Bio Summit Google Drive. Go here to learn more.

Will there still be a Bio Summit party?

Yes! Just because we’re virtual doesn’t mean we can’t hang out together. On Saturday evening, there will be a virtual DJ set. You can find more details on the Fun Stuff page of this site.

I participated in the last virtual Bio Summit. Where did that content go?

We archived it! Please navigate to biosummit.live/2020 to access all the talks, workshops, and creations from GCBS 4.0.

How can I submit an idea for a talk?

Speakers, panelists, and workshop leaders for the main program were selected during the application process.

What’s the difference between a virtual talk, a panel, a breakout session, and a workshop?

A talk or plenary is a traditional style where a single presenter delivers a topic to an audience.

A panel consists of three or more discussants who engage a topic in front of an audience.

A breakout session is typically a co-participatory group discussion format on a topic in smaller groups.

A workshop typically involves a hands on activity that is arranged along one of three formats, including:

(1) "Cooking show" style (e.g., one demonstrator in front of an audience)

(2) DIY participatory (e.g., a facilitator guides participants through a specific activity, using readily available at home ingredients/supplies and tools)

(3) Online/computational/ bioinformatics (e.g., a facilitator guides participants through a specific activity, using nothing but a computer; can be done entirely online)

What equipment do I need to participate in events & workshops?

The Bio Summit website is best utilized via a desktop or laptop. Ideally, participants have the following: Zoom app, Slack desktop app, a strong internet connection, a laptop or desktop computer (but mobile should work if absolutely necessary!)

For workshops, you may need special equipment or access to tools or machines. Please be sure to check the workshop requirements before signing up for a place.

How do I join the Slack?

If you have received the email of your acceptance to the Biosummit 5.0 you should automatically be able to login to the Slack workspace. You should get an invitation to join the slack using the same email-id with which you applied for the Biosummit. If you still haven’t received the invitation for the Slack, please send us an email to info@biosummit.org with the Subject: SLACK INVITATION REQUEST

To learn more about how to use Slack, go here.

What are you using Slack for?

We are using Slack for all our non-video discussions and exchanges (along with Google Drive). We have dedicated channels for participants to join and interact with each other. Please lookout for the channels starting with the name #bs5 (for example #bs5-introductions). All channels marked this way are specifically for this conference. Feel free to add yourselves to any of these channels once you join the Slack workspace.

If I have questions during the Bio Summit, where do I go?

While programming is occurring, you can visit biosummit.org/zoom to ask questions from our organizing team! You can also reach us in the #bs5-help-support Slack channel or via email at info@biosummit.org or CodeOfConduct@biosummit.org for Code of Conduct violations.