ERA Science Meetings

Definition and aims 

The annual ERA Science Meeting is a scientific and networking event to be held separately from the annual Congress and in collaboration with the ERA Working Groups when the theme of the meeting is relevant.

The purpose of an annual scientific meeting for nephrologists is multifaceted, aiming to advance the field of nephrology and improve patient care through knowledge sharing, professional development, and collaborative networking. Key objectives of such meetings include: 

• Dissemination of Cutting-Edge Research: Provide a platform for presenting the latest research findings, clinical trials, and advancements in nephrology. This helps to keep attendees updated on new developments and emerging trends in the field

• Fostering Collaboration and Networking: Facilitate interactions among nephrologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals from various regions and institutions. This promotes the exchange of ideas, best practices, and the development of collaborative research projects and clinical initiatives

• Policy and Advocacy: Discuss important policy issues, healthcare regulations, and advocacy efforts that impact nephrology practice and patient care. These discussions can lead to coordinated efforts to influence healthcare policy and improve patient outcomes

• Addressing Global Health Issues: Highlight global health challenges related to kidney disease and discuss strategies to address disparities in care. This fosters a global perspective and encourages efforts to improve nephrology care worldwide

Overall, the annual ERA Science Meeting for nephrologists serves as a critical forum for advancing the field, enhancing clinical practice, and ultimately improving the health and well-being of patients with kidney diseases through important consensus papers/statements.

The event will last 2 half days, with symposia, Late Break Clinical Trial sessions and panel discussions.

The meetings are organised in the on-site-only format. No virtual or on-demand sessions are provided.

The topic of the event is decided by the Council and the content of the programme is prepared by the Meeting Scientific Committee and should normally be linked to hot topics in the field or any relevant topic as decided by the Council.

 

I. Scientific committee composition and election procedure

1. The ERA Science Meetings’ committee will have 6 members: a Chair and 1 representative from the SAB, 2 ordinary members nominated by the ERA Council and 2 ordinary members nominated among the boards of Working Groups eventually involved according to the chosen topic of the meeting. If no Working Group is involved, then all 5 ordinary members must be nominated by the ERA Council and must be experts in the topic of the meeting
2. The Chair must be the Renal Science Chair
3. All Committee members will remain in the committee for the duration of the organization of the meeting
4. Communication among members of the ERA Science Meeting committee will normally be organised via teleconference with support from the ERA HQ 
5. During voting held within the committee, in case of an equal number of votes/scores, the Chair has the casting vote 

 

II. Duties of committee members

1. The main objectives of the ERA Science Meeting are the following: 
2. The organisation of high-quality scientific events promoting the dissemination and discussion of the latest research findings and scientific advancements in nephrology 
3. Facilitate opportunities for networking and collaboration among nephrologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals  
4. The ERA Science Meeting Committee will prepare the general programme considering the main objectives mentioned above specifically taking into consideration the latest scientific studies and findings in the field of the chosen topic 
5. The programme must then be approved by the Council 
6. In defining the programme, the ERA Science Meeting Committee should preferably involve 1 or more ERA Working Groups and/or committees / task forces for consultation on the specific topic of the meeting 
7. The ERA Science Meeting Committee is supported in its activities and duties by the ERA HQ  
8. Diplomas for the ERA Science Meeting Committee members. For this matter one should refer to the appropriate section in the “General Rules for ERA Committees”

 

III. Various

1. Speakers

All speakers should receive the same benefits as the annual ERA Congress Speakers: all the details can be found in the appropriate section of the “Specifications for Organising the ERA’s Congresses and Meetings”

2. Attendance

Each event is reserved to max 100 attendees

3. Organisation

The logistical and practical aspects of the ERA Science Meeting will be organised by the ERA with the eventual support of an appointed PCO

4. Sponsorships

Sponsorships are welcome. If any are available these will be managed by the appointed PCO

5. Costs

All costs linked to this meeting will be covered by ERA

 

Last update: November 2024