Our Unconference strand is your chance to shape the agenda. These are informal, participant-led sessions where anyone can propose and run a discussion, activity, or debate on a topic they care about. Think of it as your opportunity to raise the questions you want answered; or to share evidence on the topics you work on. If it fascinates you, odds are, others will be just as interested!

Unconference spaces will be available to book from 09:00 on each day of Metascience 2025 on a first-come, first-served basis. Meet us at the registration desk and we’ll help you get started.

What makes a great Unconference session?

• Pick a clear theme. Instead of “Peer Review” try something more specific like “Is open peer review making research better, or just more stressful?” A sharper focus helps spark interest.
• Start with a question or opinion. Give the room something to react to. A 5-minute intro or a few thought-provoking questions can help get things going.
• Facilitate, don’t lecture. You’re a host rather than a keynote speaker. Encourage participation, invite others in, and use the group’s collective experience.
• Emphasise interactivity. Invite questions, encourage discussion, and use the group’s knowledge. Good facilitation is key; use whiteboards or ask someone to take notes to help capture ideas and keep things flowing.
• Be inclusive. Welcome new voices, guide the discussion, and gently steer if things go off track.

Basic session patterns

• A group discussion around a key challenge or question
• A mini-presentation followed by open Q&A
• A show-and-tell or demo
• A skills workshop or teach-in
• A collaborative brainstorm
• Something new (zines, debates, games, etc.)

For more information on how to run an unconference session, see here based on which a lot of this guide was written.