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What is Experimental Biology (EB)?

This multidisciplinary scientific conference is comprised of over 14,000 scientists and exhibitors representing six sponsoring societies and multiple guest societies. The fields of study represented include pharmacology, anatomy, biochemistry and molecular biology, investigative pathology, nutrition, and physiology. The attendees represent university and academic institutions as well as government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private corporations. The 2016 conference is taking place April 2–6 in San Diego, CA.

EB is a unique opportunity to learn about an array of disciplines, present your own research, network, and explore careers. With so much happening at one meeting, it’s both exciting and a little daunting. To get the most of out of your EB experience, it’s helpful to start planning early. For 2016, ASPET is excited to offer both new and ongoing events for undergraduates. In addition to first-rate scientific sessions where you can expand your research horizons, the following are some highlights of events of interest to undergraduates:

Saturday, April 2, 2016

Grad Student/Postdoc Colloquium 

It’s never too early to start thinking about your career plans! Undergraduates are encouraged to attend this professional development event. Rick McGee, Assoc. Dean for Faculty Recruitment and Professional Development will be discussing "Mentoring Your Mentor: Key Skills for Effective Mentoring Relationships with Shared Responsibility." 

ASPET Business Meeting and Awards Presentation  

Hear updates about society activities and recognize excellence in pharmacology through the presentation of awards to members. Attending this meeting is a great step toward becoming a more engaged ASPET member! 

ASPET Opening Reception 

Immediately following the business meeting, the opening reception is an informal gathering where you can reconnect with friends and meet other ASPET members. It’s also a chance to practice the "elevator version" of your talk before more formal presentations later in the meeting.

Sunday, April 3, 2016

ASPET Undergraduate Networking and Career Development Luncheon
(new for 2016—pre-registration required) 

Hear about opportunities for undergraduates and network with peers and scientists at the ASPET Undergraduate Networking and Career Development Luncheon. Undergraduate students will learn about research opportunities available at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and in the San Diego area, in addition to ASPET funding for undergraduate research through the SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship) program. The keynote speaker, Dr. Janet Clark, Director for Fellowship Training at the National Institute of Mental Health, will present detailed information regarding NIH programs designed specifically for undergraduates. A Q&A period will follow the presentations. Attendees will receive tips and resources detailing how to find and select a research opportunity that relates to their future career goals, enhance their basic science education, and increase the impact of their graduate and medical school applications. 

Undergraduate Research: Cultivating the Next Generation of Researchers through SURF and Beyond
(new for 2016)  

The 2016 symposium will highlight ASPET's Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program and feature both faculty and student panelists discussing their perspectives on undergraduate research. This session will allow time for small-group discussions, and is designed to encourage conversations between students and faculty about how to maximize the benefits of participating in research.  

ASPET’s Student/Postdoc Poster Competition
(new for 2016—expanded award opportunities for undergraduates include eligibility in all ASPET divisions) 

Best Presentation awards are available through ASPET’s Student/Postdoc Poster Competition. Share your research, network with peers and faculty, and possibly win a cash prize or other perks as well.

ASPET’s Student/Postdoc Mixer  

The mixer is a great place to meet up with friends, make some new ones, dance, and unwind after a full day!

Monday, April 4, 2016

The Young Experimental Scientists (Y. E. S.)  

This mixer offers another chance to network and meet students and scientists from other EB societies.

Don't Miss

ASPET’s Member Lounge
(new for 2016) 

Meet potential mentors and learn more about the society and how it can help guide your career.

Division Mixers 

Network with others who have similar research interests.

ASPET’s Day of Service  

On April 1, you can volunteer alongside other ASPET members to give back to the local community.

More Tips and Information About Attending EB2016 

Check out Getting the Most Out of Academic Conferences by Uyen Chu and Members of the Mentoring and Career Development Committee from the March 2015 edition of The Pharmacologist.

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