Recently, The University had the privilege of successfully hosting a major international Chemistry conference. Professor David Jackson, and Dr Justin Hargreaves of the School of Chemistry successfully bid for the tenth EuropaCat international conference to be hosted by Glasgow.

The six-day EuropaCat X conference, which kicked off on Sunday 28 August, brought together more than a thousand chemistry experts from across the world to see cutting-edge research and technology presentations on  “Catalysis Across the Disciplines”.

The conference was opened by Glasgow North MP and Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland Ann McKechin, who said:

"I am delighted that the University of Glasgow has been chosen to play host to this international conference which visits the UK for the first time. Scotland and chemistry have had a long and successful relationship, which has resulted in the country now becoming a base for some of the world's biggest chemical sciences operators. 

"In this time of global recession, the chemicals industry contributes a very welcome £3.4billion to the Scottish economy each year and provides employment for some 14,000 people directly (around 70,000 jobs in total). I hope Scotland, and in particular Glasgow, can continue to play a prominent role in this $13 billion a year industry."

A conference like this is a major undertaking for our campus, and our Conference & Visitor Services Office CVSO) (supported by catering, janitorial and security staff) deserve high praise for the smooth running of this major event. EuropaCat attracted 1,165 delegates, travelling from 47 different countries, some of whom brought their partners and children. The conference also attractsed a large exhibition, with 25 exhibitors in the Hunter Hall and Concert Hall Foyer.  Plenary and keynote sessions took place in the Main Building, James Watt South and Boyd Orr Building, with catering provided from One A and the Fraser Building.

The academic and reputational value of an event like this is undisputable, but it is always difficult to gauge the economic benefit.  However, anecdotally, the Visitor Centre Shop was swamped with customers all week, and indeed one delegate shopping for souvenirs spent £1,200 on University memorabilia in a single transaction! 

Dr Hargreaves commented: "The feedback we have received concerning the meeting has been excellent.  It is particularly pleasing to note that, in addition to the marvellous setting, delegates have consistently commented on how friendly and welcoming everyone was.   This is a reflection of the efforts of all those across the campus associated with the many different aspects of the meeting."

You can read a lot more about Europacat X, and some very complimentary comments about our University on the Royal Society for Chemistry's blog at:  http://blogs.rsc.org/cy/2011/09/08/europacat-glasgow-28-august-2011/ 

During the same time period, CVSO hosted a reception for 2,200 delegates, who were attending the European Society for Organ Transplantation conference held in the SECC.  This reception took place in the Bute and Hunter Halls, and the Kelvin Gallery.

Anyone is welcome to contact CVSO for help and support in organising a conference, and it always good to see marvellous events like this bringing kudos (and income!) to our own campus:

Conference & Visitor Services Office  Tel:  0141 330 3123 or 0141 330 2263  Email:  cvso@glasgow.ac.uk

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First published: 15 September 2011