The current situation has forced us all to reappraise much of our personal and professional lives, and to introduce many changes. The TT2020 Organizing Committee has been no exception. However, it has not taken us long to realize that with change comes opportunity, and we are very excited to move TT2020 to a virtual meeting, allowing many new possibilities.
Be assured, VIRTUAL-TT2020 is not going to be a series of lectures on Zoom! State-of-the-art technology means that VIRTUAL-TT2020 is going to be a fully interactive experience between speakers and delegates with question and answer sessions, poster presentations, roundtables and panel discussions.
Whilst all of our TT meeting attendees look forward catching up with old friends and colleagues, as well as making new connections, a virtual meeting will allow many more people to attend TT2020 and become part of the conversation. There will be networking possibilities through meetings in virtual lounges, chat channels to discuss topics of common interests, as well as video chats just to say hello to a friend and swop gossip. Viewing E-posters from the comfort of your personal device means no more bent backs and strained eyes, and you can still discuss methodology and reports with each presenter together with whoever else is visiting the poster. You will be able to tour the exhibition booths of our sponsors and talk over latest technological solutions, live with their sales rep team, and even enjoy free gift vouchers via email!
All but one of our original presenters have enthusiastically endorsed VIRTUAL-TT2020, so the scientific program with its world class speakers remains unchanged. We will be adding new sessions relating to corona research and working under lockdown.
Sadly, we have not managed to find technical solutions to offer you the wonderful, warm Israeli weather in October. Neither will you be able enjoy Israeli hospitality and taste the rich and varied Israeli cuisine, nor wander round the beautiful campus of our hosts, the Weizmann Institute of Science. However, we do have plans to take you on some virtual tours where you can visit the land of ancient and modern, and its many natural wonders without worrying about the mosquitos!
Now you are convinced that VIRTUAL-TT2020 is not an emergency solution to an unexpected situation, but a whole new way to conference and interact with colleagues from all over the world, many of whom you would have never been able to meet at an in-person meeting. No expensive accommodation, no overnight layovers and its environmentally friendly to boot! Time to stay tuned to follow the registration details and secure your place at the trailblazing VIRTUAL-TT2020!
Together with the TT2020 Organizing Committee, the Weizmann Institute of Science and the ISTT Board we are very much looking forward to welcoming you to our first ever VIRTUAL-TT Meeting, to what promises to be an exciting and event-packed, new conference experience.
Shalom and see you in the fall!
Rebecca Haffner Ph.D.
Chair, TT2020 Organizing Committee