What is the Third BCFM PhD Conference in Economics and Finance?
The conference is a unique opportunity for graduate students from the participating universities (see below) to present their research to fellow PhD students and receive valuable feedback. Additionally, the conference's aim is to facilitate opportunities for PhD students to engage and form collaborative networks, fostering connections between the participating universities.
When will the conference be held?
13-14 June 2025.
Where will the conference be held?
Goethe University Frankfurt (Westend Campus, House of Finance, Theodor-W.-Adorno-Platz 3, 60323 Frankfurt am Main)
Which universities participate?
Bonn University, Cologne University, Frankfurt School of Finance, Goethe University and Mannheim University.
Is there a participation fee?
Yes, there is a fee required for participation. This fee contributes to funding and supporting the conference.
What types of sessions and events are included in this year's conference?
This year's conference will consist of presentation sessions, and, depending on applicants' demand, subsequent paper discussions. Additionally, there will be two keynote speeches and some social events planned.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline for all applications, including paper submissions and general participation, is 15 April 2025 at 23:59h (GMT+1).
What types of research papers are eligible for the conference?
Submissions are open for all fields of economics and finance (including accounting and related fields). Senior-coauthored papers are accepted. To be accepted for presentation, we require work that is at an intermediate or advanced stage. We offer the opportunity for mutual discussions of papers. If you would like your paper to be discussed by another PhD student, you must have a draft of your paper, which you will have to send to your assigned discussant a few weeks before the conference. In return, you agree to discuss another applicant's paper.
In what format should papers be submitted for the conference?
Participants may submit their work as an extended abstract, which must be entered into the text field in the registration form. To apply for a presentation slot, we require between 4,000 and 8,000 characters. Formulas may be written in Latex notation. References may be indicated in author-year notation. Please do not include a list of references.
Is it possible to attend the conference without presenting a paper?
Absolutely! We encourage participation from those who may not be presenting papers.
What does chairing a session at the conference entail?
The session chair's role includes introducing presenters and their research topics, ensuring each presentation adheres to its allotted time, and facilitating audience engagement. This involves recognizing attendees who wish to ask questions or comment, thereby maintaining an interactive and orderly session flow.
What is couchsurfing, and how does it work for this conference?
Couchsurfing at this conference is a system where local participants (“hosts”) offer free lodging in their homes to attendees (“hosted”), facilitating a unique, cost-effective accommodation option and enhancing community interaction among conference participants.
How can I sign up for couchsurfing accommodation?
You can sign up for couchsurfing when you register for the conference. There's an option to indicate whether you'd like to host a guest or stay at someone else's place.
Are there any costs associated with couchsurfing?
No.
Can I specify preferences regarding my couchsurfing host?
Yes, you can specify gender preferences for both hosts and guests. Additionally, it's required that the sleeping place is in a separate room from the host's.
How are couchsurfing hosts and guests matched?
After the application deadline (15 April 2025) the organizers will match pairs of hosts and hosted based on your specified preferences. Hosts and hosted will be notified and given each others’ contact information within a few weeks after the deadline.
What are the expectations for guests and hosts in the couchsurfing arrangement?
Both guests and hosts are expected to treat each other with respect and courtesy. Guests should be considerate of their host's space and privacy, while hosts should provide a welcoming and safe environment. Clear communication about any specific needs or rules is encouraged to ensure a pleasant experience for both parties.
What should I do if I encounter issues with my couchsurfing arrangement?
The conference organizers will provide a contact number for use in case of any issues with the couchsurfing arrangement.
Will food and drinks be provided during the conference?
Yes, on both conference days, there will be lunch as well as drinks and snacks during coffee breaks, included in the participation fee. There is an optional dinner on the first conference day, which is also included in the participation fee.
What are the transportation options to reach the conference venue?
You can reach Frankfurt best by train.The conference venue is within 30 minutes subway (including walking) distance from the main station. Alternatively, you can use the bus from the central station.
Is there Wi-Fi access at the conference venue?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available through the eduroam network. Participants can connect using their usual eduroam credentials.
Are there any networking or social events planned during the conference?
Yes! More details will be shared with participants closer to the date of the conference.