Events & Meetings | June 30th, 2026
Webinar: Chairing Sessions with Confidence – Know How, Best Practice & Tips
by ESPR Early Career Investigators Section
Have you been invited to chair a scientific session at CEPAS or another conference? Wondering how to keep presentations on time, encourage meaningful discussion, and create a professional yet welcoming atmosphere?
Join the ESPR Early Career Investigators (ECI) Section for an interactive webinar on 23rd September 2026, at 20h00 CEST, and develop the practical skills and confidence needed to chair scientific sessions successfully.
Whether this will be your first time chairing or you would simply like to refine your moderation skills, this webinar will provide practical guidance, expert advice, and real-life insights from experienced scientific leaders.
Our expert speakers will share practical tips on:
• Preparing before the session
• Introducing speakers professionally
• Managing time effectively
• Leading engaging discussions and Q&A sessions
• Handling unexpected situations with confidence
• Creating a respectful, inclusive and well-organized atmosphere
Our Expert Speakers:

Prof. Deirdre Murray
Co-Chair, CEPAS Scientific Committee
Professor Deirdre Murray is Chair of Paediatrics at University College Cork and an internationally recognised clinician-scientist in neonatal brain injury and neurodevelopment. She has led numerous national and international research initiatives and serves as Co-Chair of the CEPAS Scientific Committee. With extensive experience in scientific leadership and conference organisation, she will share practical insights into what makes an excellent session chair.

Prof. Willem de Boode
ESPR President
Co-Chair, CEPAS Organising Committee
Professor Willem de Boode is a paediatrician-neonatologist at Radboudumc Amalia Children's Hospital (Nijmegen, The Netherlands) and President of the European Society for Paediatric Research (ESPR). He is internationally recognised for his work in neonatal haemodynamics, cardiovascular physiology, neonatologist-performed echocardiography, advanced haemodynamic monitoring, neonatal shock and extracorporeal life support. He has played a leading role in developing European clinical and training guidelines and has extensive experience chairing and organising international scientific meetings.
Who should attend?
• Early Career Investigators
• Junior clinicians and researchers
• First-time conference session chairs
• Anyone interested in improving their moderation and leadership skills during scientific meetings
Participation is free and open to all.
Come prepared to learn, ask questions, and gain practical skills that will help you chair scientific sessions with confidence.
To register for the webinar, please click here.