Wisdom Days is looking for conference assistants – apply by 8 March
The first-ever, multidisciplinary Wisdom Days: Science for Sustainability Transformations conference will be held in Jyväskylä on 6-8 May 2026, bringing together researchers, students, and anyone interested in sustainability challenges and solutions. Around 300 participants are expected from Finland and abroad. The conference will feature top experts in their fields as keynote speakers: Research professor Rauna Kuokkanen, Professor Christian A. Klöckner, and Professor Jörn Fischer. Wisdom Days aims to offer a rich and diverse programme of inspiring talks and engaging workshops, so there will be plenty to see, learn, and experience throughout the event.
To make the programme run smoothly, the organizers are looking for around 20 volunteer assistants. Both degree and doctoral students, as well as others interested in the themes of the conference, are welcome to apply. The tasks include welcoming and guiding participants, providing customer service and practical support, and preparing rooms and materials for conference sessions.
Why volunteer?
Volunteering as a conference assistant offers students an excellent opportunity to see how an international academic conference operates in practice. It also provides a chance to build valuable networks and follow presentations by leading experts. Assistants get to develop their communication, organizing, and problem-solving skills. The position is unpaid, but volunteers will receive a conference T-shirt to wear during shifts, morning and afternoon coffee during the event, a certificate of participation, and an invitation to the organizers’ celebration in May. Depending on departmental practices, volunteering may also be eligible for study credits.
What is expected from volunteers?
The conference language is English, but many attendees speak Finnish. No prior experience in conference organizing is required - a positive attitude, interest in customer service, and reasonable English skills are all you need. Volunteers are expected to work approximately six-hour shifts during the conference days and attend the mandatory orientation session on Tuesday 21 April at 9. While most tasks take place during the event, some preparatory work may be available beforehand.
How to apply?
You can apply as a volunteer conference assistant using the above form by 8 March 2026. Positions are filled in order of registration, so don’t wait too long - secure your spot. All applicants will be contacted during March. We warmly welcome you to help make the very first Wisdom Days conference a success!
More information:
You can contact the organizing team at wisdom-days@jyu.fi.
The conference is organized by the University of Jyväskylä School of Resource Wisdom (JYU.Wisdom) and the Sustainability Transformations Doctoral Education Pilot (SusTra).
JYU.Wisdom is a multidisciplinary scientific community. Our mission is planetary well-being – the well-being of all life. We promote planetary well-being through progressive research, education development, and impactful societal interaction.
