Darren Lewis
The BPS Cognitive Section is a national forum for discussion of research and matters of concern to cognitive psychologists. Membership comprises psychologists in industry, the health service and government departments, in addition to all colleges and universities. Interests cover most aspects of cognitive psychology and related areas.
The Cognitive Section holds an Annual conference at a UK university (The University of Hertfordshire in 2009) which is well attended by postgraduates. The conference provides an excellent opportunity for postgraduates to present their research as either a poster or paper. In addition the cognitive section organise ‘lunch with the leaders’ sessions at the conference, where postgraduates have the opportunity to discuss their work with keynote speakers – a very valuable experience. The Cognitive Section provide financial support in order for eligible postgraduates to present a poster or paper at the Annual conference The value of the award is £250 per successful applicant. Awards contribute towards registration, accommodation at the conference venue, and/or travel to the conference. See http://www.bps.org.uk/cognitive-section/postgraduates.cfm for more information.
The Cognitive Section is always very keen to encourage new members, particularly among postgraduates. It is important that cognitive psychology is represented as broadly as possible and that it benefits from the input of enthusiastic and energetic members from all of the UK cognitive psychology community. For postgraduates the membership is just £5 per year and entitles members to a reduced registration fee at the Annual conference.
As the PsyPAG cognitive representative I am a member of the BPS Cognitive Section committee. This involves attending two meetings a year representing the views and opinions of postgraduate students researching cognitive psychology. These meetings are usually at the BPS Annual conference and the Cognitive Section Annual conference. Other duties include judging the postgraduate poster competition, and chairing sessions and ‘lunch with the leaders’ at the cognitive conference. The section is very supportive of postgraduate students, so if you have any suggestions please contact me at dsdl@exchange.shu.ac.uk.