Annual Scientific Conference

The AFMNet First Annual Scientific Conference

May 9th & 10th, 2005

AFMNet thanks the speakers, poster presenters, participants and Conference organizers for helping to make our first annual conference a success.

The conference facilitated connection and communication among our members and across disciplines and sectors. Workshops empowered the exchange of ideas in an open environment. Breakout and networking sessions provided opportunity to form linkages and initiate discussions that were not on the official agenda. Most importantly, AFMNet came together in celebration of research excellence.

Keynote Speakers

Keynote speakers and research theme leaders represented expertise in science and innovation, partnerships, and communication. There were compelling discussions on the nature of research and the roller coaster of successes and failures. There were also interesting discussions about how the media handles "hard science" (who doesn't love the apple guy now?).

Posters

The poster sessions were proof of AFMNet's synergistic and multi-disciplinary approach to research excellence and its commitment to the advancement of HQP. Prizes were awarded to the top poster presentations.

Research Theme Conferences

Research theme leaders led discussions about the focus and scope of their themes and project leaders and investigators gave summaries and highlights of their projects to date.

Breakout Sessions

On the second day of the conference participants were encouraged to cross pollinate themes and create new linkages. Dynamic and diverse discussion groups cropped up throughout the day.

HQPA

The newly formed AFMNet Highly Qualified Personnel Association was launched at its inaugural workshop, held on day two of the conference. The 2005 Governing Council was introduced and the opportunities, resources and objectives of the association were presented. Guest speakers from CLLRNet and the Canadian Water Network described their experiences in creating and fostering a student network. A round table discussion and brainstorming session resulted in some excellent ideas for future HQP initiatives and events.