Sessional research events
The Institute and Faculty of Actuaries organises Sessional research meetings, which give you the opportunity to discuss research, supporting the learning society.
What is a Sessional research meeting?
Sessional research meetings are discussion meetings, where the (preliminary) results or ideas of evidence based research are discussed amongst actuaries. They are intended to advance the knowledge base of actuaries and raise the profile of the Profession as a learned society. These meetings therefore qualify for CPD. The meetings are recorded, so members can gain CPD independent on their location.
Any papers and discussions should be in such a format that they can be published in the British Actuarial Journal (BAJ).
The meeting usually lasts 1½ hours, typically between 17.30 – 19.00.
At the event, the paper is taken as read, so the meeting itself gives as much opportunity for discussion as possible.
From 16.30 - 17.00, authors are available to answer any questions in an informal setting. If needed, a pre-meeting to explain the work can be arranged.
Format of the meetings
At a traditional style Sessional research meeting, the paper is peer reviewed and published in advance. It is presented in summary form with the main focus on the discussion. Traditionally, there is an opener (to highlight some areas for discussion in the paper) and a closer (to highlight the main themes of the discussion) at the meeting. Both the paper and the discussion are published in BAJ.
New formats of Sessional research meetings enable dissemination and discussion of not yet published work (e.g. of working parties) at an earlier stage. Examples are presentations by working parties, round table debates, workshops or lectures of initial research ideas.
Where do I find the programme of Sessional research meetings?
- View a list of the upcoming and most recent research meetings. This page also gives links to recordings where available.
- View the events calendar, where you can filter on Event type ‘Sessional research events’ on the right hand side. You can download the paper and register to attend the meetings here.
Do I need to register to attend a meeting?
Because of Health & Safety regulations, we need to know how many people are planning to attend. We therefore ask you to register via the Events calendar. If the meeting is fully booked, you can be placed on a waiting list, in case of cancellations.
You can also turn up on the night; spare places will be allocated on a first come first served basis after the booked delegates have taken their seats.
How can I contribute to a Sessional research meeting?
If you would like to present or discuss your research, or act as chair, opener or closer, please contact Maria Lyons.
The author guidelines, timetable and template will give more information on the requirements for a paper.
I have not attended before - is there anybody around to show me the ropes?
At each meeting, members who have particular experience in the topic area or who are happy to be approached by new members and share their experience will be available. They can be recognised by a yellow ribbon on their name badge, to signal that they encourage any member to approach them, ask questions about the sessional meeting, chat or even just to introduce themselves.