Commission on Science and Literature (CoSciLit): Call for Papers

Since 2014, the Commission on Science and Literature (CoSciLit) has brought together scholars and scientists from around the world to advance the study of science and literature in dialogue with one another. Our next biennial conference will take place at Ghent University, Belgium, on 17-19 June 2026. Confirmed plenary speakers include Professor Sadiah Qureshi (University of Manchester), Professor Jean Walton (University of Rhode Island), and Dr. Paul Hamann-Rose (University of Passau). The conference will be semi-hybrid, with papers presented in person and online. All presentations will be in English.

In addition to the main programme, for delegates attending the conference in person, we are planning a drinks reception in Ghent City Hall, a tour of the Ghent University Science Museum (GUM) and Botanical Garden, and a postgraduate workshop.

CoSciLit invites proposals for twenty-minute papers, panels of three papers, or roundtable discussions of 4-6 participants (talks of around 10 minutes each), on any subject within the field of literature and science studies. Topics may include how literary texts in any language represent and navigate scientific knowledge and concerns, now or in the past; how literary forms and literary-critical methods can be used to engage with scientific discourse, knowledge and communication; and how scientific methods and findings can inform readings of literary, imaginative and narrative texts.

Proposals of no more than 250 words, together with the name and institutional affiliation of the speaker, should be submitted via this form. Please state clearly whether you plan to deliver your paper in person at Ghent, or online remotely. Proposals for panels should include a separate proposal for each paper. The closing date for submissions is 1st September 2025.

Conference bursaries: there will be a limited number of graduate student bursaries – a fee waiver and small travel grants – available from CoSciLit. If you are interested in being selected for one of these awards, please indicate this in the form when sending in your proposal.

About the Conference: the in-person conference will be held at Ghent University. We will provide suggestions for accommodation, as well as places to eat and activities in the city. The building will be fully accessible, and tea, coffee, and lunch will be covered by the conference fee and provided during the conference.

For any questions about the conference, please contact the organisers Louise Benson James (louise.bensonjames@ugent.be) and Shannon Lambert (shannon.lambert@ugent.be).