The Cognition & Behavior Evolution Network is pleased to announce its annual conference, set to take place on September 18-19, 2025. This year’s theme, “Looking Back & Looking Forward,” reflects on the foundational contributions of past researchers while embracing the future directions of our field.
Please check out the conference website for up-to-date information.
Conference programme
Scientific progress is built on the discoveries of past generations, and this year, we explore this dynamic in the study of cognition and behavior. We dedicate our program to honoring foundational contributions while highlighting new research shaping the future. Our two-day conference will focus on two interwoven perspectives:
Day 1: Behavior & Primatology – Honoring the past and future of primate behavior research.
- Keynote: Dr. Zanna Clay (Durham University) will give a keynote talk honoring the late Frans de Waal, celebrating his legacy and exploring how his pioneering work continues to shape our understanding of primate social cognition.
- Keynote: Dr. Koen Margodt, a collaborator of Jane Goodall, will share insights from his research on animal ethics.
Day 2: Cognition & Evolutionary Psychology – Solid foundations and future orientations in cognitive science.
- Keynote: Prof. Leda Cosmides (UC Santa Barbara), one of the core founders of evolutionary psychology, will discuss the origins and impact of evolutionary cognitive science.
- Keynote: TBA
In addition to our keynote speakers, the conference will feature PhD student and early-career researcher talks, ensuring a vibrant discussion about the next generation’s contributions.
Call for abstracts
We invite submissions from PhD students and early-career researchers working in behavioral sciences, cognition, primatology, evolutionary psychology, and related fields. We welcome abstracts that fit within our broad theme: historical perspectives, contemporary advances, and future directions in cognition and behavior.
Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
- Primate social behavior and cognition
- Evolutionary perspectives on decision-making
- Comparative cognition
- Human and non-human communication
- Cognitive biases and adaptive heuristics
Submission guidelines:
- Abstracts should be max. 250 words.
- Please indicate whether you prefer an oral or poster presentation.
- Submission deadline: May 1st 2025
- Submit via the online subscription form
Registration
Registration is required and can be done using the online registration form.
Via this weblink you can also register to join us for dinner on Thursday night at an additional cost of €75 (including drinks). Please register before August 15th 2025.
