Events in Leeds

The "BFS Public Forum: The Future of Fertility" is a landmark community event hosted at the Leeds City Museum. Breaking away from the traditional closed-door medical conference format, this evening event is designed to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general public. As reproductive science moves at a lightning pace, the British Fertility Society believes it is vital to engage with the community to discuss the ethical, social, and scientific implications of these advancements. The forum will feature a panel of world-class experts—including doctors, scientists, and ethicists—who will provide short, accessible talks on the future of making babies. Topics will range from the "social freezing" of eggs and sperm to the potential for artificial gametes and the role of genetics in modern family planning. This is a rare opportunity for members of the public to ask direct questions to the leaders of the UK's fertility authority. Whether you are currently navigating a fertility journey, considering your future options, or simply interested in the science of life, this forum offers a welcoming and informative environment. In addition to the panel discussion, the event will host an "Awareness Fair" in the museum’s Brodrick Hall. Here, local Leeds-based support groups, nutritional therapists, and fertility charities will provide resources and one-on-one advice. The BFS aims to demystify the IVF process and provide clear, evidence-based information in an age of online misinformation. By hosting this event in a central, iconic Leeds venue, the BFS reaffirms its commitment to public education and transparency in reproductive medicine. This event is free to attend, but registration is required due to the high anticipated interest in the Yorkshire region.

The British Fertility Society's Embryology Laboratory Management Workshop is an advanced two-day program held at the University of Leeds, School of Medicine. As IVF technology becomes more sophisticated, the role of the Laboratory Director and Senior Embryologist has shifted from purely technical to highly managerial. This workshop is designed to equip laboratory leaders with the skills necessary to run a high-performing, compliant, and innovative IVF lab in the 2020s. Day one focuses on "Quality Management and Regulatory Compliance." In the UK, the HFEA's Code of Practice sets a high bar for laboratory standards. Participants will engage in deep-dive sessions on audit preparation, risk assessment, and the implementation of robust Quality Management Systems (QMS). Expert speakers will share strategies for error reduction, including the latest in electronic witnessing systems and air quality monitoring. The goal is to move beyond simple compliance and toward a culture of "Continuous Quality Improvement." Day two shifts the focus to "Innovation and Team Leadership." This includes the logistical challenges of introducing new technology—such as AI-driven embryo grading or automated vitrification—into an existing workflow. Attendees will learn how to manage technical transitions without disrupting clinical results. Furthermore, the workshop covers the human element: recruiting, training, and retaining skilled embryologists in a competitive market. Through interactive role-playing and peer discussion, participants will explore leadership styles and conflict-resolution techniques specific to the high-stakes environment of an embryology lab. This event is a must for any senior embryologist in Leeds or the surrounding regions looking to transition into or excel in a management role.

The BFS Nurse & Counselor Specialist Meeting at The Queens Hotel in Leeds provides a unique and essential space for the professionals who form the emotional and operational backbone of fertility clinics. While much of reproductive medicine focuses on the laboratory and the surgical suite, this meeting centers on the patient experience, the nursing care pathway, and the psychological support required for those facing infertility. The 2026 meeting is themed "Resilience and Compassion," acknowledging the high-pressure environment of fertility clinics for both staff and patients. The day’s agenda is split between clinical nursing updates and counseling workshops. Nurses will receive updates on the latest drug administration protocols, including the management of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) and the role of nurse-led ultrasound scanning. Meanwhile, counselors will participate in peer-led sessions on supporting patients through treatment failure, donor conception decisions, and the complexities of modern family structures, including LGBTQ+ pathways and solo parenthood. A significant portion of the afternoon is dedicated to joint sessions where nurses and counselors collaborate on "The Holistic Care Model." This involves discussing how to better integrate psychological support into the physical treatment plan, ensuring that no patient feels like a number in a system. The meeting also addresses staff wellbeing, providing practical tools for preventing burnout and fostering a supportive team culture. Set in the historic and central Queens Hotel, the event facilitates meaningful networking among Leeds-based professionals, allowing for the exchange of ideas that can be immediately implemented in their respective clinics to enhance patient outcomes.

The BFS Reproductive Medicine Regional Seminar in Leeds is designed to provide a high-level update on the rapidly evolving landscape of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Held at the modern Horizon Leeds venue, this one-day seminar brings together the North of England’s fertility community to discuss regional challenges and global breakthroughs. The program is curated to address the most pressing issues facing clinics today, from the optimization of ovarian stimulation protocols to the ethical considerations of emerging genomic technologies. The seminar begins with a keynote address on the "State of the Nation" in UK fertility care, highlighting recent HFEA data and what it means for clinical practice in Yorkshire and beyond. Following the keynote, sessions will dive into the science of embryo selection, including the latest findings on time-lapse imaging and non-invasive pre-implantation genetic testing (niPGT). These technical discussions are balanced with sessions on patient-centered care, focusing on how to improve the overall patient experience and manage expectations throughout the IVF journey. A major focus of the 2026 seminar will be "Sustainability in the Fertility Clinic." Experts will lead a panel discussion on how to reduce the environmental footprint of ART without compromising clinical outcomes. This includes waste management in the lab and the carbon footprint of medical supplies. The afternoon will feature breakout sessions where attendees can discuss specific regional audit results and share best practices for improving pregnancy rates and reducing multiple birth rates. This seminar is more than just a series of lectures; it is a forum for collaboration and peer support, ensuring that practitioners in the Leeds area remain at the forefront of reproductive excellence.

The British Fertility Society (BFS) presents an intensive two-day certification module focused on the complex domain of Male Infertility. Hosted at the renowned Leeds Institute of Reproductive Medicine, this event serves as a cornerstone for clinicians and scientists looking to refine their diagnostic and therapeutic skills in andrology. Male factor infertility contributes to nearly half of all conception difficulties, yet it remains an area where specialized training is frequently sought after. This workshop bridges the gap between basic semen analysis and advanced surgical and medical interventions. Throughout the event, delegates will engage with leading experts in the field to discuss the latest evidence-based protocols. The curriculum is designed to be highly interactive, blending theoretical lectures with practical case-study reviews. Participants will explore the physiological underpinnings of spermatogenesis, the impact of lifestyle and environmental factors on male reproductive health, and the nuances of interpreting complex endocrine profiles. A significant portion of the syllabus is dedicated to the management of azoospermia, including the selection criteria for surgical sperm retrieval (SSR) and the subsequent laboratory handling of retrieved tissue. Beyond the technical skills, the event emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care. This includes counseling strategies for men and couples navigating the emotional toll of a male-factor diagnosis. Attendees will also learn about the integration of genetics in male infertility, specifically regarding microdeletions and karyotyping. The workshop concludes with a formal assessment component, aligning with the BFS's rigorous standards for professional certification. This is an essential gathering for those aiming to achieve the BFS Certification in Male Infertility, providing not only the knowledge required but also a valuable opportunity to network with peers and mentors in the Leeds medical community.

The TIDES (Talent Identification and Development in Sport) 2026 Conference is a premier international gathering hosted by Leeds Beckett University. This two-day event (with a pre-conference day for early-career researchers) brings together the world's leading sports scientists, coaches, and policymakers to discuss the future of athletic potential. The 2026 theme, "Reimagining Talent: People, Places, and Possibilities," challenges traditional views of talent as a fixed, innate trait. Instead, the conference explores how environment, psychology, and coaching innovation can unlock hidden potential in athletes across all levels. The schedule features keynote speeches from internationally recognized experts, breakout sessions on data analytics in scouting, and panel discussions on diversity and inclusion in talent pathways. A significant focus of the 2026 conference is the role of technology—from wearable biometrics to VR training—in identifying the stars of the future. Participants will have the chance to share their own research through abstract presentations and poster sessions, fostering a collaborative environment where theory meets practice. Hosted at the Carnegie School of Sport, the conference utilizes some of the best sports research facilities in the UK. This provides a tangible backdrop for discussions on high-performance environments. The event also includes a gala dinner and numerous networking breaks, allowing delegates from more than 15 countries to build lasting professional connections. For anyone involved in the business, science, or coaching of sport, TIDES 2026 is the essential forum for staying at the cutting edge of the industry.

In an era defined by information overload and "fake news," the ability for businesses to establish and maintain trust has never been more challenging or more critical. This seminar, hosted at the iconic Rose Bowl building in Leeds, brings together marketing experts, digital strategists, and business owners to explore the psychology of trust in the 2026 digital landscape. As algorithms become more complex and consumer skepticism grows, traditional advertising methods are losing their efficacy. This event provides actionable insights into how brands can cut through the noise with authenticity. The session will cover a variety of topics, including the ethical use of AI in marketing, the rise of "micro-communities," and the importance of transparent data practices. Speakers will share case studies of brands that have successfully rebuilt their reputation after digital crises and those that have cultivated deep loyalty through purpose-driven communication. The seminar is designed to be highly interactive, moving beyond theory into practical application. Attendees will leave with a toolkit of strategies to enhance their digital presence, focusing on storytelling that resonates on a human level. The venue, The Knowledge Exchange, is specifically designed to foster collaboration, making it the perfect setting for the networking session that follows the talk. Whether you are a small business owner in Yorkshire or a marketing lead for a multinational firm, this seminar offers the strategic foresight needed to navigate the complexities of modern consumer relationships in the digital age.

Leeds Varsity is the pinnacle of the city’s sporting calendar, representing a fierce yet friendly rivalry between Leeds Beckett University and the University of Leeds. This three-day extravaganza culminates in the "Grand Finale" at the historic Headingley Stadium. After days of competition across more than 25 different sports—including football, netball, hockey, and swimming—the final day focuses on the flagship rugby union matches that draw thousands of spectators from across the region. The event is more than just a series of games; it is a celebration of student community, pride, and athletic excellence. The atmosphere at the stadium is electric, with students donning their university colors, chanting in support of their teams, and enjoying live entertainment. For Leeds Beckett, Varsity is an opportunity to showcase the prowess of the Carnegie School of Sport, which has produced numerous Olympic and professional athletes. The event also emphasizes the "Community Impact Pledge," ensuring that the celebrations remain respectful of the local Headingley residents and the environment. The 2026 edition promises to be the largest yet, with enhanced fan zones, local food vendors, and professional-standard broadcasting of the main fixtures. Whether you are a die-hard sports fan or simply looking to experience the unique culture of Leeds’ student life, the Varsity Finale is an unmissable spectacle. The day concludes with the presentation of the coveted Varsity Trophy to the overall winning university, marking the end of a year of hard work and dedication by student-athletes.

Leeds Beckett University proudly presents the inaugural professorial lecture of Professor Claire Griffiths, a leading voice in public health and obesity research. Titled "From Silos to Systems: Transforming Obesity Research, Policy, and Practice," this lecture addresses one of the most pressing health challenges of the 21st century. Professor Griffiths will draw upon years of extensive research and practical application to argue that current approaches to obesity are often too fragmented and individualistic. Instead, she advocates for a radical shift toward "systems thinking"—an approach that considers the complex interplay of biological, environmental, and socio-economic factors. The lecture will explore how urban planning, food systems, and government policy intersect to influence public health outcomes. By breaking down the "silos" that separate different academic disciplines and government departments, Professor Griffiths proposes a more holistic framework for intervention. This event is not only a celebration of her academic achievements but also a call to action for policymakers, health practitioners, and researchers to collaborate more effectively. Following the formal presentation, attendees are invited to participate in a rigorous Q&A session, where the discussion will likely touch upon local health initiatives within Leeds and national health strategies post-2025. The evening will conclude with a networking reception, offering a rare opportunity for local health professionals and students to engage directly with thought leaders in the field. This event is part of the University’s ongoing commitment to impactful research that drives social change and improves the well-being of the local and global community.

The Undergraduate Offer Holder Day at Leeds Beckett University is a bespoke experience designed specifically for students who have received an offer to study for the upcoming academic year. This event serves as a critical bridge between application and enrollment, providing a comprehensive look at what life is like as a student at this vibrant institution. Spanning both the City and Headingley campuses, the day is packed with interactive sessions, subject-specific workshops, and informal meet-and-greets. Participants have the unique opportunity to dive deep into their chosen course. Academic staff lead detailed presentations outlining the curriculum, assessment methods, and career prospects, while current students provide an unfiltered perspective on the learning environment. Beyond the classroom, the event showcases the university's award-winning facilities, including state-of-the-art libraries, high-tech labs, and the iconic Leeds School of Arts building. Attendees can take guided tours of the accommodation suites to envision their future living spaces and explore the various support services available, from disability support to career counseling and mental health resources. This is more than just a tour; it is a community-building event. It allows prospective students to meet their future peers, reducing the "first-day nerves" that often accompany the transition to higher education. The Leeds Beckett Students’ Union also plays a major role, showcasing the 80+ sports clubs and societies that define the university's legendary student life. Whether you are interested in the bustling energy of the city center or the green, historic surroundings of the Headingley campus, this day provides all the clarity needed to make Leeds your final choice.

Behind every accurate toxicity prediction lies a sophisticated data infrastructure. The Lhasa Tech-Exchange is a specialized event focused on the technical integration of Lhasa’s APIs and software suites into existing corporate IT ecosystems. In an era of "Big Data," pharmaceutical companies face the challenge of siloed information and fragmented workflows. This event addresses how to streamline safety data flows using Lhasa’s cloud-based solutions and on-premise integrations. This session is primarily aimed at IT architects and data managers who support scientific teams. We will cover the technical specifications of our Web Services, the security protocols governing our data-sharing consortia, and the best practices for maintaining data integrity in compliance with GxP standards. Our lead developers will provide a deep dive into the architecture of the Vitic database, demonstrating how high-performance searching and similarity indexing can be achieved at scale. This is a highly technical "Other" category event, focusing on the intersection of Information Technology and Life Sciences. The afternoon will feature a "Dev-Ops" roundtable, where participants can discuss the challenges of deploying scientific software in globally distributed environments. If your organization is looking to automate its ICH M7 workflow or integrate predictive tools directly into an ELN (Electronic Lab Notebook), this tech-exchange is the essential bridge between your IT department and your research scientists.

The Global Health & Safety Collaborative Expo brings together stakeholders from the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and cosmetic industries to discuss the shared goal of safer chemical development. Lhasa Limited is proud to host this exhibition in Leeds, providing a platform for companies to showcase how they are implementing "Green Chemistry" and sustainable safety assessments. This event highlights the Miscellaneous impacts of chemical safety on public health and environmental protection. The expo floor will feature over 30 exhibitors, including CROs (Contract Research Organizations), software providers, and regulatory consultants. Unlike a closed conference, the Expo is designed for broad interaction and cross-industry learning. Lhasa Limited will host a central "Innovation Hub" where we will demonstrate our latest research into secondary pharmacology and metabolite toxicity using Meteor Nexus. We believe that by collaborating across sectors, we can accelerate the development of safer products while minimizing environmental impact. Keynote sessions will address the "One Health" approach, linking human safety with ecological health. There will also be a "Poster Walk" where doctoral students present their research on novel toxicity endpoints. This event is an excellent opportunity for business development, as well as for scientists to discover new tools and services that can enhance their safety assessment pipelines. The expo concludes with a "Partnership Lounge" session, facilitating 1-on-1 meetings between technology providers and industry R&D heads.