Focus on Learning and Hands-On Experience

This year, our meeting emphasizes learning through practical experience. In addition to our traditional Poster Session, we will host interactive workshops covering essential skills for conducting a successful study—from ethics approval to publication.

Hands-On Learning Workshops:

Gain practical skills in:

• Preparing paperwork for ethics approval
• Writing preregistrations
• Designing ethograms for behavioral research
• Collecting and analyzing data
• Drafting a brief research report
• Publishing your work in Human Ethology

Presentation Types:

• Poster Session: Share your research during our dedicated Poster Session, with posters displayed throughout the meeting. This provides an opportunity to showcase your work and engage with fellow attendees.

Guidelines for Abstract Submissions:

Submit your abstracts via the link provided. You will need to include:

• Presenting author’s contact information
• Full author list and affiliations
• Abstract (maximum 250 words)

Submit Your Abstract here

After Submission:

• Abstracts will be reviewed by the Programme Committee. The presenting author will be notified once a decision is made.

Student First Authors:

• Students presenting as first authors (poster or oral) will receive:
  • Free registration
  • Complimentary shared student accommodation
  • A banquet ticket

We look forward to your contributions and to fostering a learning-centered conference experience!

We are excited to welcome you to Vienna for our Summer Institute that combines stimulating scientific exchange with opportunities for learning new skills. While the detailed program is still being finalized, here are the key dates to help you plan your visit:

Conference Dates
21 – 24 July
The main conference program will take place from Monday, 21 July to Thursday, 24 July 2025, featuring hands-on learning sessions, theoretical input and poster presentations covering all stages of the research process—from study planning to publication.

Accommodation for Student First Authors

For student first authors staying in accommodation arranged by ISHE, rooms will be available:
Check-in: 20 July from 15:00
Check-out: 25 July by 11:00
This ensures students can arrive comfortably the day before the conference begins.

Registration and Arrival
Registration Opens: 20 July (afternoon)
We recommend arriving on 20 July to complete registration and get settled ahead of the official start of the conference.

Relaxed Pre-Conference Evening

We are currently working on a pre-conference activity on the evening of 20 July to help attendees ease into the conference and get to know each other in an informal setting. As plans evolve, we will keep you updated with more details so you can be prepared to join.

Detailed Program – Coming Soon

The detailed conference program will be published here once finalized. Please check back for updates.

Programme committee:

Jan Havlíček (Chair), Charles University, Czech Republic

Elisabeth Oberzaucher, University of Vienna, Austria

Craig S. Roberts, University of Stirling, UK

Jaroslava Varella Valentova, University of São Paulo, Brazil

Ana Maria Fernandez, University of Santiago, Chile

Workshop leader:

 
Kirren Chana
Vienna Cognitive Science Hub, University of Vienna
Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, University of Verona, Italy
——————————————–

Margot Dehove
Vienna Cognitive Science Hub, University of Vienna
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Roy Hammer
Affenberg Research Station, University of Vienna
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Jan Mikuni
Vienna Cognitive Science Hub, University of Vienna
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Lena Pflüger
Affenberg Research Station, University of Vienna
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Sabine Tebbich
Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna

Registration fees

Earlybird rates (until 31 May 2025)

ISHE Members                               USD 250

Non-members                               USD 330

Students*/retirees                       USD 100

Late registration rates (after 1 June 2025)

ISHE Members                              USD 310

Non-members                              USD 390

Students*/retirees                      USD 130

Banquet ticket                             TBA

Refreshment allowance

Student First Authors                  USD 50

Seestadt Aspern, Vienna by Wien 3420

Seestadt, Vienna, offers a perfect blend of modern urban design and natural charm, making it an exceptional location for our scientific conference. This innovative district, known for its sustainable design and vibrant community, provides an ideal setting for academic exchange. A major benefit of hosting the conference in Seestadt is its compact layout—everything from the conference venue to accommodations and dining options is within walking distance.

Lake at Seestadt Aspern. C by Luiza Puiu

A Summer Conference by the Lake
The picturesque lake is the heart of Seestadt, bringing a refreshing charm to the summer conference experience. Attendees can enjoy walks along the promenade, lakeside relaxation, or informal networking against a stunning natural backdrop. Seestadt’s green spaces, cozy cafés, and inviting terraces create a welcoming environment for professional and social gatherings.

 

Seestadt at night. c by Luiza Puiu

Accommodations and Dining Within Reach
Seestadt’s compact, pedestrian-friendly layout ensures attendees can reach eco-friendly hotels and diverse dining options within minutes. Whether enjoying traditional Austrian cuisine or international flavors, participants can experience the local culture without the need for transportation, allowing more time for networking and exploration.

We look forward to welcoming you to Seestadt, where science, nature, and community converge to create an unforgettable conference experience. 

c by Luiza Puiu

How to Get to Seestadt, Vienna

Vienna, Austria, is known for its excellent public transport system, making it easy and sustainable to reach Seestadt, the conference venue. We encourage participants to use public transportation and consider environmentally friendly travel options.

From Vienna International Airport (VIE):

• Fast Route: Take the City Airport Train (CAT) to Wien Mitte station (€14.90 one-way), then transfer to U-Bahn line U2 (direction Seestadt, €2.40 single ticket). Travel time: Approximately 35 minutes.
• Scenic Route: Board the S7 regional train to Praterstern (€4.40 one-way), then switch to U-Bahn line U2 (direction Seestadt, €2.40 single ticket). Travel time: Approximately 45 minutes.

From Vienna Main Train Station (Hauptbahnhof):

• Fast Route: Take U-Bahn line U1 (direction Leopoldau, €2.40 single ticket) to Praterstern, then transfer to U-Bahn line U2 (direction Seestadt). Travel time: Approximately 25 minutes.
• Scenic Route: Board tram line D (included in €2.40 single ticket) from the station to Schwedenplatz, then transfer to U-Bahn line U2 (direction Seestadt). Travel time: Approximately 35 minutes.

Public Transport Tickets:

• Single ticket (valid for all public transport): €2.40
• 24-hour ticket: €8.00
• 48-hour ticket: €14.10
• Weekly pass (Monday to Sunday): €17.10

How to Get Public Transport Tickets in Vienna:

• Stationary Ticket Machines: Available at all U-Bahn and major train stations, offering tickets for single rides, day passes, and weekly passes.
• Official Website: Purchase tickets online via the Wiener Linien website (www.wienerlinien.at) with options for digital tickets.
• Mobile Apps: Use the official Wiener Linien app (available on Android and iOS) for purchasing digital tickets and planning your journey. The ÖBB app (austrian railway company) is also useful for regional and long-distance travel.

Sustainable Travel Encouragement: Vienna is well-connected by international trains from major European cities. We recommend arriving by train to reduce your carbon footprint. If you must fly, please use public transport upon arrival, as Vienna’s extensive and efficient U-Bahn network reaches every part of the city.

Stay Close to the Venue

Seestadt offers a variety of accommodation options, making it easy for attendees to stay just steps away from the conference venue. With student first authors accommodated directly in Seestadt, we encourage all participants to consider booking their stay close by, ensuring convenient access to sessions, social events, and everything Seestadt has to offer.

For those looking for comfortable hotel accommodation, we have partnered with DORMERO Hotel Vienna to offer a 20% discount on the SMART booking option when using the promo code EVENTFLEX during your reservation. More information and direct booking are available at:
👉 dormero.de

If you prefer a more independent stay, FeelGood Apartments offers modern, fully equipped apartments in Seestadt — ideal for longer stays or for those who enjoy a bit more flexibility. Explore options and book directly at:
👉 https://feelgood-apartments.at

With all accommodation options within easy walking distance to the conference venue, restaurants, cafés, and the lake, you’ll have everything you need to make your stay both convenient and enjoyable.

Seestadt and Vienna offer a variety of activities to explore during your stay. Here are some recommendations for your free time:

In Seestadt:

• Lakeside Promenade: Enjoy a walk or a swim by Seestadt’s central lake, a beautiful spot for relaxation and networking.
• Urban Art and Architecture Tour: Explore the modern architecture and murals around the neighborhood.
• Cafés and Local Eateries: Experience Seestadt’s growing café scene with local specialties.

In Vienna:

• Historic City Center (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Wander through Vienna’s iconic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace. wien.info
• MuseumsQuartier: Discover contemporary art, enjoy cafés, or visit museums such as Leopold Museum or MUMOK. mqw.at

• Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens: Explore the imperial summer residence and stunning gardens. schoenbrunn.at
• Vienna Prater and Giant Ferris Wheel: Experience Vienna’s famous amusement park and breathtaking views. praterwien.com
• Danube Island: Ideal for cycling, walking, or relaxing by the river.

Getting Around:

• Public Transport Tickets: Tickets are available from:
  • Stationary Ticket Machines: Found at U-Bahn and major train stations.
  • Website: wienerlinien.at (digital tickets available)
  • Mobile Apps: WienMobil (Android, iOS) for public transport, and ÖBB App for train connections.

Vienna has been rated multiple times as the city with the best quality of life in the world, thanks to its rich culture, safety, excellent infrastructure, and green spaces. Here are some useful tips for your stay:

Tap Water – Fresh from the Alps

Vienna’s tap water is of exceptional quality, sourced directly from alpine springs. It is safe, refreshing, and free—so bring a reusable bottle to stay hydrated throughout your visit.

Popular Drinks and What’s a “Spritzer”?

Vienna offers a variety of traditional beverages:

• Spritzer: A classic Austrian drink made from white wine and sparkling water, served chilled—a perfect refreshment, especially in summer.
• Almdudler: Austria’s famous herbal lemonade, often enjoyed as a non-alcoholic alternative.
• Austrian Wines: Vienna is known for its local wine culture, especially Grüner Veltliner and Gemischter Satz.
• Viennese Coffee: Try a Melange (similar to a cappuccino) at one of the city’s traditional coffee houses.

Vienna is Surrounded by Wineries

Vienna is the only world capital with significant vineyards within the city limits. The city is surrounded by picturesque wine villages such as Grinzing, Nussdorf, and Stammersdorf. You can enjoy local wines and traditional Austrian cuisine at cozy Heuriger wine taverns. These spots are perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening with beautiful views of the vineyards and the city.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

• Taxis: Readily available throughout the city. You can hail one on the street, at taxi stands, or book via apps like Taxi 40100 or Taxi 31300.
• Uber: Available in Vienna and often more affordable for longer distances. Payment is cashless through the app.

Safety in Vienna

Vienna is one of the safest cities in the world. The crime rate is low, and public areas are well-monitored. You can comfortably explore the city both day and night. As with any major city, remain cautious with your belongings in crowded places.

Local Etiquette and Tips:

• Austrians value politeness. A friendly “Grüß Gott” (Hello) or “Danke” (Thank you) goes a long way.
• Tipping is customary: round up your bill or tip 5-10% in restaurants.
• Public transport is based on trust (no barriers), but ticket inspections are frequent—always have a valid ticket.

Enjoy your stay in Vienna, where the charm of tradition meets modern comfort and hospitality!

The International Society for Human Ethology (ISHE) holds annual meetings to enable its membership to present and discuss research findings, to share knowledge of techniques and skills, and to build professional networks. At both its Congress and Summer Institutes, ISHE is dedicated to providing a harassment-free event experience for everyone. We do not tolerate harassment of event participants in any form. Event participants violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled without a refund at the discretion of the ISHE Board of Officers.

ISHE is dedicated to diversity, equity, inclusion, and the free expression of ideas. The Society seeks to provide an environment in which diverse participants may learn, network, and enjoy the company of colleagues in an environment of mutual human respect. We recognize a shared responsibility to create and hold that environment for the benefit of all.

Some behaviours, therefore, are specifically prohibited:

• Harassment or intimidation, including but not limited to that based on gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, age, appearance, religion, or other group status.

• Sexual harassment or intimidation, including stalking (physical or virtual) and recurring unwelcome sexual attention or physical contact.

• Sustained disruption or threatening presenters (verbally or physically).

All participants are asked to frame discussions as openly and inclusively as possible and to be aware of how language or images may be perceived by others.

Critical examination of beliefs and viewpoints does not, by itself, constitute hostile conduct or harassment. Similarly, use of sexual imagery or language in the context of a professional discussion might not constitute hostile conduct or harassment if it is necessary to the topic of discussion and presented respectfully.

Enforcement

Participants who are asked to stop any harassing behaviour are expected to comply immediately.

If a participant engages in harassing behaviour, event organizers retain the right to take any actions to keep the event a welcoming environment for all participants. This includes warning the offender or expulsion from the meeting with no refund.

Event organizers may take action to redress anything designed to, or with the clear impact of, disrupting the event or making the environment hostile for any participants.

We expect participants to follow these rules at all event venues and event-related social activities.

Reporting

If someone makes you or anyone else feel unsafe or unwelcome, or if you believe a harassment problem exists, please report it as soon as possible to any member of the ISHE Board of Officers or event organizers.

References

This anti-harassment policy is adapted (with permission) from that drawn up by the Society for the Improvement of Psychological Science (https://improvingpsych.org), using language and concepts adapted from the following sources:

Geek Feminism wiki:

http://geekfeminism.wikia.com/wiki/Conference_antiharassment/Policy

American Library Association code of conduct:

http://alamw14.ala.org/statement-of-appropriate-conduct