What to Expect at Scialog
A Guide for Scialog Fellows
Scialog, short for Science + Dialog, is a unique framework for convening scientists with the goal of rapidly generating novel, high-risk basic science research ideas, catalyzing new collaborations among researchers who have not previously collaborated, strengthening networks of early career scientists, and empowering private foundations and other funders to work together effectively to support novel ideas with the greatest potential impact.
Scialog emphasizes small group discussions. One or two keynote presentations will frame the key issues, with most of the meeting devoted to discussion among the approximately 50 Scialog Fellows, who are early career scientists identified as rising stars in the area of the initiative’s theme. We hope everyone participates in a spirit of cooperation and intellectual generosity, sharing ideas and listening carefully to others.
You will engage in two types of group dialogue: 1) topical discussion groups consisting of about 10 Fellows and 1-2 Facilitators, and 2) mini discussion groups typically consisting of 2-3 Fellows.
The discussion topics for the topical groups are chosen based on the Fellows’ suggestions (made during online registration) and preferences (indicated in the preconference survey). Fellows are assigned to discussion groups based on their preferences and other factors, including intentionally mixing Fellows throughout multiple breakout sessions to generate interactions across disciplines and scientific approaches. The intent is for discussions to be forward-looking – where is the science going, what are the most promising and potentially impactful new directions in the topical area? Discussion groups provide opportunities for Fellows to interact with each other and to discover common or complementary scientific interests. Be sure to speak up with what may in other contexts be “far out” ideas – these discussions are intended to generate exciting new ideas for high risk/high impact projects.
The mini discussion groups allow Fellows who have not previously interacted to learn about each other’s interests and methodological approaches. These smaller groups may provide time to test out specific ideas for research collaborations, but Fellows in these mini groups are not required (or even expected) to team up on a proposal. Sometimes these mini discussions lead to exciting new projects; other times they simply involve a deeper exchange of ideas than can be achieved at typical scientific meetings. In either case, we hope Fellows find them valuable.
Topical discussions and mini groups take place throughout the day on Friday and on Saturday morning. Fellows can use these discussions and free time to decide with whom they would like to form new collaborations. On Saturday afternoon, Fellows self-assemble into teams of two or three, with the requirement that Fellows on these teams have not previously collaborated. Each team writes a two-page proposal for one year of seed funding for a new collaborative project. Projects should be novel, high-risk, and potentially high-impact. Fellows can join up to two teams, but only with different team members. Proposals are due at 6:30 am Sunday morning.
Be bold and you will have a better chance of being funded – and more importantly of doing better science!
Teams also need to prepare a short PowerPoint presentation for Sunday morning. The presentation should communicate the main idea of the proposed project, explain its novelty and potential high impact, and the role of each team member. Details on the exact format will be given at the meeting.
Scialog is a great opportunity for Fellows to interact with each other and with the Facilitators, who are distinguished scientists. In addition, program officers from multiple foundations usually attend, so the meeting is also a great opportunity for Fellows to learn about research opportunities at different foundations, and get to know program officers, who are interested in the topic of the Scialog initiative.
Scialog is meant to be a rapid-fire, fun experience -- a vehicle for networking with peers and for collegially generating new ideas. Where should the science go? That’s up to where great early career scientists wish to take it. Let’s find out at Scialog!