GIAE Scientific Sessions
The GIAE Scientific Sessions are annual gatherings where we organise a variety of scientific presentations to share current research on steppe birds. These events bring together researchers, enthusiasts, members of conservation NGOs, and environmental consultancy professionals. After the technical sessions, we hold a GIAE Members’ Assembly to discuss internal matters such as statutes, future actions, and the organisation of upcoming meetings.
COMING SOON
2025 – Molina de Aragón, Spain
On 23 and 24 October 2025, the Steppe Bird Research Group (GIAE) will hold its 3rd GIAE Scientific Sessions in Molina de Aragón, Spain. This new edition will once again serve as a key forum for sharing ideas, projects, and strengthening collaboration among those working in the research, management, and conservation of steppe birds.
The call for presentations is now open, with a special focus on contributions from pre- and postdoctoral researchers, as well as technical staff involved in the field. Presentations will be oral, 15 minutes in length. The deadline for abstract submission (maximum 250 words) is 19 September 2025.
New this year: 5 travel grants will be offered to undergraduate and master’s students, recent graduates (academic years 2023–2024 and 2024–2025), and individuals currently unemployed. These grants will cover accommodation and meals. Applications must include a motivation letter and supporting documents (university enrolment or degree certificate, or unemployment proof).
To help with organisation, please confirm your attendance by completing the registration form by 19 September.
See you in Molina de Aragón!
2024 – Elvas, Portugal
One year later, on 3 and 4 October 2024, over 60 GIAE members met in Elvas, Portugal, for the 2nd GIAE Scientific Sessions and the 3rd GIAE Members’ Assembly, reflecting increased participation and the group’s expanding reach. On this occasion, 16 scientific presentations were delivered, with a continued emphasis on the work of early-career researchers and technical staff. The second day’s meeting provided an opportunity to assess progress since the previous gathering, discuss new ongoing initiatives such as the international conference, and plan the next annual meeting. This event further established GIAE as a key platform for the exchange of ideas and strategies in support of steppe bird conservation.
2023 – Madrid, España
On 14 and 15 December 2023, the Autonomous University of Madrid hosted the 1st GIAE Scientific Session and the 2nd GIAE Members’ Assembly, attended by around 45 researchers from the group. In this first edition, 15 scientific presentations were given, mainly by young researchers and technical specialists in steppe bird conservation. During the second day’s meeting, organisational matters were addressed, and the first strategic lines were drawn to strengthen GIAE’s work. This inaugural event laid the foundation for future meetings dedicated to knowledge exchange between researchers and other stakeholders involved in conservation.
GIAE organised the most important international event on the conservation and ecology of Palearctic steppe birds:
International Conference on Paleartic Steppe Birds: Ecology and Conservation Challenges
From 25 to 29 March 2025, the University of Castilla-La Mancha in Ciudad Real, Spain, hosted the International Conference on Palearctic Steppe Birds: Ecology and Conservation Challenges, an international event focused on the conservation and ecology of Palearctic steppe birds. The conference featured workshops, talks, scientific posters, round tables, and field trips to the La Mancha steppes. Researchers from across the Palearctic region took part.
The event addressed key topics such as:
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