Forming global connections

“As someone without institutional funding, opportunities like SSM are rare and precious. I was able to meet and converse with researchers from Germany, Denmark, Mexico, and Venezuela, exchanges which likely would not have happened had I not attended in person. These cross-country conversations opened up new perspectives about research choices, about data access in different settings, and potential future collaborations. 

Having previously attended a very large conference with over 1,000 delegates, I recalled how overwhelming and impersonal that experience felt. By contrast, the SSM meeting was welcoming, manageable, and deeply involving. People had time to chat; presenters and attendees engaged across breaks; there was genuine interest in each other’s work. The ECR day also created a protected space to share issues specific to people in my position: securing funding, publication strategies, managing workload, and well-being. All of this helped reduce some isolation I sometimes feel as a self-funded researcher.

I am deeply grateful for having had the opportunity to attend, despite funding constraints. SSM has proven to be one of the most friendly and inclusive academic societies I have encountered. It validated for me that meaningful academic and professional growth is possible even when one must self-fund, provided one pushes to attend, engage, and connect.

Ultimately, the SSM conference was far more than a series of stimulating talks: it marked a turning point in how I perceive the potential of my work, both locally and in the wider global scholarly community.  I left the conference with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to apply the insights I had gained to my own research. The experience has provided me with fresh energy, greater clarity of direction, and the foundations of new professional networks that I am confident will enrich both my doctoral work and my future career.”

Inspiration and learning

“Attending the 2025 SSM Conference in Bradford was a truly inspiring and rewarding experience. The ECR day was a major highlight, offering a supportive space to share ideas and learn from peers across the UK. I particularly valued the NIHR session, which inspired me to think more seriously about postdoctoral opportunities, as well as the session on co-production and PPIE, which broadened my understanding of meaningful public involvement. The session on presenting research in the media was especially useful, helping me reflect on how I might communicate my PhD findings more effectively. 

The main conference was equally enriching. I enjoyed the Pemberton Lecture by Nick Wareham, the plenary debate on translating evidence into policy, and Kate Pickett’s thought-provoking Cochrane Lecture. The oral and poster presentations, workshops, and the opportunity to explore Bradford during the City Hall tour all contributed to making the conference both an insightful and memorable experience for me.”

Welcoming and supportive

“Attending the SSM Annual Conference as an early career researcher was an incredibly welcoming and inspiring experience. I was honoured to receive a free place and to have the opportunity to give an oral presentation, which was a fantastic chance to share my work and engage with constructive feedback from colleagues.

I particularly appreciated how inclusive the conference felt - from the very start, the organisers made me feel valued and supported. The variety of social activities and networking opportunities allowed me to connect with researchers and practitioners across the UK and Ireland, fostering meaningful conversations and potential collaborations. I found the sessions both stimulating and highly relevant to my work and the balance of academic content, workshops and social events created an environment where learning and connection went hand in hand.

Overall, this experience exceeded my expectations. It not only broadened my knowledge and perspective but also strengthened my sense of belonging within the social medicine community. I would highly recommend this conference to anyone seeking a supportive and enriching professional experience.”

Bridging research and policy

“As a Local Authority researcher attending the SSM Annual Conference, it was interesting to see the focus on fostering strong relationships between academia and policy makers. It was especially inspiring to hear about Bradford City Council’s leading role in local research leading to tangible action that benefits local residents. I had a lot of insightful conversations with researchers about involving local authorities early in the research process and ensuring alignment between research and activity, especially when addressing the wider determinants of health, and took back some findings that I raised with colleagues at my Local Authority. It was a privilege to present my poster and to share some of the amazing research that happens within a local authority context but does not always get a wider platform. The conference helped to reawaken my “research brain”, which is too often bogged down in the day to day of Local Authority practice.”

Thought-provoking and constructive

“I thank the Committee of the Society for Social Medicine & Population Health for awarding me a free place at this year’s annual conference. The award enabled me to present the results of my PhD chapter and gain valuable feedback. The conference also provided an excellent networking opportunity. This would not have been possible without the bursary.
The conference was very well-organised and provided thought-provoking sessions. I felt that the mix of presentations effectively represents the field of ‘social medicine and population health.’ It shows why human health must be viewed in the context of social structure, and why it is not possible to improve population health by focusing on health services only. What I like most about this event is the very friendly and supportive atmosphere. At every conference, I have had very constructive discussions with both early-career and senior members of the society. It feels like a very inclusive place to be, where one can discuss their research and receive constructive feedback regardless of their career stage. And of course, networking! It was great to be in Bradford, thank you for enabling me to attend the #SSM2025!”

Professionally and personally rewarding

“I gained a lot by attending the Social Society of Medicine and Population Health Annual Conference. It was encouraging to see the progress made in other topics within health science and to network with other professionals and researchers who share similar interests and challenges. I really enjoyed the city's vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Overall, it has been professionally and personally rewarding.”

Next year's scheme

Details of the 2026 free place scheme will be announced in early 2026, alongside abstract submission.