Program 2026

The plenary sessions break away from the traditional solo keynote format to focus on dynamic cross-disciplinary debates about the trade-offs and synergies at the heart of Nexus research. Each plenary features two experts from different disciplines or regions. Guided by a moderator, the two experts will tackle a specific question, challenging each other’s assumptions and exploring how their differing paradigms intersect. This format is designed to expose blind spots, bridge disciplinary divides, and set a highly engaging intellectual tone for the rest of the day.

The Lightning Talks are designed to showcase a wide breadth of cutting-edge research and innovative solutions in a condensed timeframe. Two rounds of four selected participants will take the stage in rapid succession, each given a strict five-minute limit to present the core of their work, a novel methodology, or a bold new idea. After each round of four presentations, the speakers will gather on stage for a joint Q&A session with the audience. This format strips away lengthy presentations to focus purely on the most impactful takeaways, maximizing the time spent on audience interaction, debate, and synthesis of the ideas presented.

The poster session is designed to serve as a central intellectual and networking forum. The session will commence on the main stage with brief, two-minute introductory presentations from each poster author. This format provides the audience with a comprehensive overview of the featured research, enabling attendees to strategically prioritize which posters they wish to visit. Following the on-stage introductions, presenters will transition to their posters, at which point the gallery will be opened to the audience. We invite attendees to enjoy refreshments, circulate through the exhibition, and engage in the collegial, one-on-one dialogues that foster genuine collaboration.

To move discussions into impact and strengthen collaboration within the nexus research community, the afternoons are dedicated to highly interactive, goal-oriented writeshops. The audience will be divided into three continuous working groups – each aligned with one of the core conference themes. Meeting every afternoon, these groups will serve as collaborative think tanks. Over the course of the three days, participants will brainstorm, debate, and synthesize their collective expertise with a clear, shared objective: gathering ideas and outlining a joint, high-impact publication or policy brief.

Enhance your stay with our curated framework activities. The program begins with a formal Welcome Session and features a diverse range of social events, including a Networking Evening, a guided city tour, and a museum visit. You will also enjoy a special video presentation. We will wrap up the conference with a Closing Session, where we reflect on our shared journey and present the final results of the write-shops. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect, explore, and consolidate our findings.