Hard to believe we are nearing the beginning of July – and with the #SMSociety conference in Glasgow on July 13-15! We are writing now with a few more important updates for you as you prepare for travel and joining us in Glasgow.
1. Online conference programme updates! Full list of papers, posters, workshops and tutorials now online
Please remember to review the #SMSociety 2026 programme while planning your conference experience. Top tip: use the search bar to identify research themes of interest. Please do review the programme and let us know if you would like to make any changes and/or if there are any discrepancies or have any questions, at [email protected].
2. Presentation preparation
We are super excited about the conference programme. For those of you who are presenting papers, please remember that all presenters have 15 minutes for their paper presentations and five minutes for Q&A. You can also consult the ‘Tips for Presenters’ on our site (*hint – don’t use font smaller than 24 point). For those of you preparing posters, you can find poster preparation guidelines on our web-site.
4. The Welcome Social
On day one of the conference (July 13), we are excited to offer you a welcome dinner, welcome talks, and a performance by a Scottish Tribal band that celebrates Scottish roots with drums, bag pipes, and musical heritage. Delegates will be welcomed with one complimentary drink available from 6:00 pm, dinner from 6:30 and talks beginning at 7:30, followed by a performance from the band and closing around 10 pm.
The welcome reception will take place at the Glasgow Grosvenor Hotel, 1-9 Grosvenor Terrace, G12 0TA, Glasgow GB. Due to space limitations, the reception is only open to registered delegates.
5. Planning your Glasgow experience
Carrying on the SMSociety tradition, lunches are self-organised, with many venues nearby in the University and in Glasgow, as well as regular transport links into the city for options further from the campus. You can find nearby food and lunch venues on our web-site under location and venue.
As a conference delegate, you are also eligible for a range of discounts, including for travel & tours (e.g. taxis, food, distillery, walking and/or bike tours); distillery tours; shopping; and for recommended eateries, restaurants, and cafes. Please check out the ‘Visit Glasgow’ site for full details. Please also note that you may need to show your conference registration or badge to prove your discount eligibility. You are also welcome to explore some of Glasgow’s greatest local attractions. Please note, these exclusive delegate offers are live and provided by third party, member businesses. As such, offer details and availability may differ slightly from those on the web-site.
The tourist board recommends the following taxi services:
- Glasgow Taxis: 0141 429 7070. Download the app: https://www.glasgowtaxis.co.uk/passenger-services/smartphone-apps/
- Saltire Private Hire: 0141 319 5344. E: [email protected]
- GlasGo Cabs (private hire): 0141 332 5050 / 0141 774 3000. Download the app: https://glasgocabs.co.uk/app/
- Ubers are also available.
6. Weather and Conference Dress Code
As in previous years, there is no conference dress code. It is worth keeping an eye on the weather as much of the UK is not air conditioned. While those of us in the southern parts of the UK have been subject to recent heatwaves, some weather reports are calling for rain. We suggest you pack light/breathable clothing and that you prepare for both rain and sun.
Finally, if you have not already told us about any access or dietary requirements, please tell us now: access and dietary requirements.
We have a packed and exciting programme and we can’t wait to welcome you to Glasgow and to the #SMSociety 2026 conference!
