Inspiring science participation in local communities, the symposium will connect people to nature, showcase experience with data collection, and provide options for ongoing participation as community scientists. In other words, we invite you to jump in—no previous experience or training is necessary.

Learn from key presenters- professional scientists, educators, and volunteers will share diverse volunteer opportunities and learning in conservation fields. Helped by technological tools, like apps and tracking databases, volunteers hear how they can easily record and submit data about local species from home or online as part of a team of community scientists (formerly known as citizen scientists). Attendees will receive opportunities to connect with others and apply knowledge locally.

Previous organizations include the Aquarium of the Pacific; Catalina Marine Society; Pacific Marine Mammal Care Center; Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy; Scripps Institution of Oceanography; Southern California Sea Turtle Monitoring Project and USC Sea Grant.

Call for Proposals

We invite community scientists and researchers to submit a proposal to be a speaker or present a poster at the 5th California Community Science Symposium.

If you are interested, please ensure that you have approval from your community science program leads, as applicable, and complete our application form for consideration.

Acceptance will include admission to the symposium.

Agenda (subject to change)

Join the Aquarium of the Pacific as we welcome community scientists and organizations throughout California for a day focused on community science and engagement.

• 8:00-9:00 a.m. - Light breakfast, Harbor Terrace
• 9:00-3:30 p.m. - Main sessions, Ocean Theater
  • Keynote talk to be announced
• 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. - Reception and poster session, Veranda

Aquarium admission, parking, light breakfast and appetizers at the reception are included in your ticket price. Once purchased, tickets are nonrefundable.