BAYSM fills a unique and important niche in the Bayesian conference landscape. While major conferences like the ISBA World Meeting and JSM are essential for the field, they can be intimidating for graduate students and early-career researchers. BAYSM provides a smaller, more intimate setting where junior Bayesians can present their work, receive constructive feedback, and build the professional relationships that will support their careers.
History
BAYSM was created by Junior ISBA to address the specific needs of early-career researchers in Bayesian statistics. The conference has been held biennially at locations around the world, typically in the year between ISBA World Meetings, ensuring a regular rhythm of opportunities for young Bayesians to gather and share their work.
The first BAYSM is held in Milan, Italy, establishing the format of a focused conference for junior Bayesian researchers.
BAYSM is held in Florence, Italy, building on the success of the inaugural meeting.
The conference moves to Warwick, UK, broadening its geographic reach.
BAYSM is held in Tartu, Estonia, continuing the tradition of rotating locations.
BAYSM continues with growing international participation and expanded programming.
BAYSM is designed for PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and early-career faculty working in Bayesian statistics and its applications. The conference typically attracts 100-150 participants from dozens of countries, creating a diverse and international community of young Bayesians.
Conference Format
BAYSM features a mix of keynote lectures by senior Bayesian researchers, contributed talks by junior participants, poster sessions, and social events designed to foster networking and collaboration. The keynote speakers—typically prominent figures in Bayesian statistics—provide inspiration and mentorship, sharing not only their research but also career advice and perspectives on the future of the field.
A distinctive feature of BAYSM is its emphasis on providing every participant with an opportunity to present their work, whether through a talk or a poster. This inclusive approach ensures that all attendees benefit from feedback and engage actively in the scientific program.
Impact
BAYSM has had a significant impact on the careers of many young Bayesian statisticians. The conference provides a low-pressure environment for first-time presenters, helps participants build international networks, and exposes junior researchers to the breadth of Bayesian statistics. Many collaborations that began at BAYSM have led to joint publications and ongoing research partnerships.
"BAYSM was the first conference where I presented my research. The supportive atmosphere and the connections I made there gave me the confidence and the network that I needed to build my career in Bayesian statistics."— BAYSM participant