What makes IFAAB different from a traditional conference?
IFAAB is intentionally small and discussion-focused. The goal is not simply to listen to a series of lectures, but to exchange ideas, ask questions, discuss disagreements, develop professional relationships, and learn from colleagues with different disciplinary backgrounds.
Friendly differences of opinion are welcome. Some of the best IFAAB conversations happen when people approach the same animal behavior question from different perspectives.
Is IFAAB right for me?
If you work or study in animal behavior and are interested in thoughtful, in-depth discussion with others in the field, there’s a good chance you’ll fit right in!
IFAAB brings together animal behavior professionals, researchers, and graduate students from a variety of backgrounds. Attendees commonly include animal behavior researchers, veterinarians with a special interest in behavior, CAABs and ACAABs, trainers and behavior consultants, animal shelter professionals, and researchers in related fields such as behavior analysis, animal welfare, genetics, and biology.
You do not need to belong to a particular professional organization or hold a specific certification to attend. IFAAB is intended for people who already have some background in animal behavior and want to engage seriously with current research, applied work, and issues facing the field.
Still unsure? Take a look at our Eligibility & Format page, or contact us at info@ifaab.org. We’re happy to help you decide whether IFAAB is a good fit.
Do I have to present to attend IFAAB?
No! You are welcome to attend without presenting (although we encourage presenting).
That said, we strongly encourage attendees to consider presenting. IFAAB is intentionally small, interactive, and discussion-oriented, and presentations are an important part of what makes the meeting unique. You can give an oral presentation, present a poster, or simply attend and participate in the discussions.
What can I present about?
Quite a lot! Presentations do not need to be traditional reports of completed research.
Topics might include current or recently completed research, interesting behavior cases, conceptual or theoretical questions, ethics and professional practice, behavior protocols, new methods or tools, demonstrations, or emerging and controversial issues in applied animal behavior.
We also welcome creative formats. A presentation can be a traditional talk, but it could also be an interactive presentation, facilitated discussion, demonstration, or panel.
How long are oral presentations?
Plan for approximately 30 minutes, although the exact amount of time available will depend on the number of presentations accepted.
In general, oral presentation slots are approximately 30–45 minutes including discussion. IFAAB values conversation, so presenters should expect and leave room for questions and discussion rather than planning to lecture for the entire allotted time.
Should I register first or submit my presentation abstract first?
You do not need to wait to submit an abstract before registering. Registration and presentation submission are separate.
If you already know you would like to attend IFAAB, we encourage you to register—especially if you would like to take advantage of early-bird registration—and then submit your presentation or poster proposal by the submission deadline.
You also do not need to have a presentation planned in order to register. You are welcome to attend without presenting.
I’m interested in presenting, but I’m not sure my idea is substantial enough. Should I submit it?
Probably! IFAAB presentations are intentionally broader than traditional academic conference presentations. You do not need to have a completed research study or a polished 45-minute academic lecture.
If you have something that could generate an interesting and useful conversation among animal behavior professionals, we encourage you to submit it. The interactive discussion is part of the point.
If you have an idea but aren’t sure how it might fit, contact us at info@ifaab.org.
Can graduate students attend?
Yes! Graduate students are encouraged to attend, and you do not need to attend with an academic mentor.
Graduate students may give an oral presentation, present a poster, or attend without presenting (although we encourage participation via presentation).
Can students present posters?
Yes. Poster presentations are open to both students and professionals.
Do you limit the number of attendees?
Yes! IFAAB intentionally limits attendance to keep the conference small, intimate, and highly interactive. This allows everyone to participate in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and engage in thoughtful debate.
When attendance is limited, we also consider the quality of submitted abstracts as part of our selection process. We encourage you to register early and, if you plan to present, submit a thoughtful abstract that highlights what you hope to contribute to the conference.
How much does it cost?
We know conferences can be wildly expensive, and we do our best to keep costs down. The conference typically costs under $130 for full attendees, and around $100 for students.
Is food provided?
It depends, but usually several meals are provided.
Breakfast: We try to choose conference hotels with complimentary breakfast.
Lunch: We try to provide lunch for Forum attendees during presentation days. These lunches are typically personalized (vegan, vegetarian, etc.), local, and delicious.
Dinner: Dinners are typically on your own, although we sometimes have a sponsor who pays for one group dinner during the conference.
Can you help me find a roommate?
Sure! Just send us an email indicating your interest and we can do our best to connect people looking to share a room.
Contact us at info@ifaab.org.