Attending a conference for the first time or as a new member of a scientific community could feel daunting. To offer support and to aid a smooth integration, we are launching a buddy scheme at the ICUA’24.

The buddy scheme is an informal support and mentoring initiative aimed at attendees who are new to ICUA, the underwater community, and to our research themes.  Delegates will be able to recognise “Buddies” by their red lanyards and badges.

Buddies can answer questions, provide information about the conference and the UK research landscape, help make new connections, and help with general integration into the community.

The buddy scheme is open to all interested attendees. We hope that this scheme provides a great opportunity to meet new people and hope that it makes our conference an enjoyable experience.

If you are an experienced member within the Underwater Community and are willing to act as a “buddy” at the conference, please tick the box when you register for the conference, and if you have any questions please contact Linda Canty at linda.canty@ioa.org.uk