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SymBioSE is a Symposium of Biology
Students in Europe. It was founded in 1996 by members of a German student
association. The basic idea was to connect all European biology students,
allowing for the exchange of ideas, perspectives and experiences about
student concerns. This led to the first meeting in Berlin in 1997. After a
successful start with twelve European countries, it was continued as an
annual event to be held in the different participating nations. Since then,
every host country has built upon the initial idea and upgraded it with
different aspects of their own cultural background. Thus far, every time this
has resulted in a unique and enriching symposium.
Today, SymBioSE meetings have three
major goals: to broaden the horizons of the participating students by
lectures and excursions, to share information about current university
matters and to connect people by discussions and cultural exchange. The biological topics presented are
always based upon the trends in research that complement both local
institutions and their resources. Lectures are usually held at a local
university, so the students gain a detailed insight into other university
systems. Participants are strongly encouraged to present their research or
interests, thus gaining experience on an international level. During
interactive workshops, students discuss theoretical, practical and ethical
topics related to science. Social events further enhance contacts
between the participants. This allows everybody to create a personal network
of collaboration and friendship throughout Europe, thereby facilitating
student exchanges and international work experience. This promotes a mutual
understanding between countries and nations through academic and cultural
exchange whilst developing a new perspective on their own educational
systems. In general, SymBioSE is not a rigid
organization with a hierarchical structure. During international meetings,
representatives of the participating countries discuss topics such as:
developments within their universities, different biological study programs,
and the various ways of student collaboration. SymBioSE is organized annually
by students and is open to all Biology students. Participants of SymBioSE are
part of a living community that connects biology students throughout the
year. For more information on SymBioSE Europe, visit: http://www.symbiose.info
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