Frequently Asked Questions

1) When is the next "Progress in Systems Biology" symposium?

April 23-24, 2009. It is being held at the National Research Council of Canada (100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa).

2) Who do I contact for registration information for the "Progress in Systems Biology" symposium?

The OISB Administration Office is your first stop for information regarding any aspect of the symposium whether you have questions about the program, registration, abstract submission, vendor information, or special dietary requests, etc. When you email (sysbio@uottawa.ca) or telephone (613-562-5800 x 8073) OISB, you will reach one of "The Figeys". Either Dr. Daniel Figeys or Rachel Figeys will respond to your enquiry as soon as possible!

3) What opportunities are available for students to participate in the "Progress in Systems Biology" symposium?

Students usual participate through poster presentations. Four students will also have the opportunity to give oral presentations. The poster presentations and oral presentations will be selected from the submitted abstracts (please see the Abstract link on the symposium website for further information). We encourage students to take advantage of the Wine and Cheese event to meet other students and scientists and to make contacts for potential collaborations for their labs or for their own research projects! Systems Biology is based on networking and collaboration! So, grab the chance to make new contacts and "progress" in new ways!

4) Can I submit my abstract before registering for the symposium?

No. Abstracts must be sent in with or after you register for the symposium (The Abstract Submission Deadline is March 23, 2009)!

5) Are there any organized local activities and events for those attending the symposium?

The Wine and Cheese Reception is the main social event for the symposium which is incorporated into the program to encourage networking and scientific discussion. For this symposium, we are hosting the Wine and Cheese event at the Canada Aviation Museum which, we hope, will add a special touch to the symposium program. More information regarding this event will be posted on the symposium website soon.

6) Are there group rates at local hotels for those coming in from out of town for the symposium?

No, sorry. We do not have enough administrative staff to organize special travel and accommodation rates and to liaison with the various hotels. However, we do provide a list of downtown hotels on the website that are not far from the National Research Council. You may contact these hotels directly for special rates. Sometimes there are discounts for students, universities, and for employees of government institutions. If you have questions about travel or accommodation, please feel welcome to contact Rachel Figeys at sysbio@uottawa.ca.

7) If I am unable to attend the symposium, can my registration be refunded? Can I send someone in my place instead?

If you contact us BEFORE March 31, 2009, a refund is possible, but a $25.00 administration fee will be charged. There will be NO REFUNDS after March 31, 2009 . Please note, for registration and security purposes, we require each person to have their own registration. If someone is going to attend on your behalf, your registration must be cancelled and a new registration submitted for the person coming. The easiest and fastest way to do this is to contact the OISB Administration Office directly (sysbio@uottawa.ca or 613-563-5800 x 8073)!!

8) Can people register on site?

Yes. We will accept on site registration only if there is still space! We can only accept 200 registrations for the symposium which is based on the number of seats in the NRC auditorium and the security regulations of NRC. We had over 200 registrations for our past symposiums and, unfortunately, had to turn people away. Please register early to avoid disappointment. The on site fee is $130.00 for students and $220.00 for others. Only credit card payment (Visa or Master Card) will be accepted for on site registration. Checks are not accepted! The Early Bird Deadline is March 23, 2009. See the registration link for further information.

9) If I need to reach someone during the symposium or need to speak with a symposium organizer, who do I contact?

There will be designated OISB and NRC staff (including security guards) available to relay messages and to help in cases of emergency. The contact information for these designates will be posted on our website closer to the symposium dates. Until then, the OISB Administration Office is still the main hub for information!