VNOP conference – call for submissions

Rethinking Developmental Science: How can we grow with the world around us? 

June 11 and 12, 2026 in Rotterdam 

Science increasingly responds to societal questions to make meaningful impact. An important question is how developmental research can evolve and reflect the lives and needs of today’s youth as much as possible. In 2026, we invite the field of developmental science to explore how the voice of youth and societal questions can be integrated in both fundamental and applied research; ranging from the study of mechanisms in the lab to observing changing patterns in daily life. In this conference, we take inspiration from development itself: unfolding in phases, shaped by context, and driven by connection. Developmental research also evolves through many phases, from curiosity to design to dissemination, and back. At each step, there are opportunities for both scientific rigor and societal relevance. This conference brings together researchers, practitioners, youth organizations, and policy makers to explore how we can advance knowledge that is both scientifically rigorous and societally relevant. Together, we’ll explore how developmental science can respond to societal questions without losing its scientific foundation. 

Abstract Submission Dates: 
January 16, 2026 – March 1st, 2026 

Are you a researcher studying child development, behaviour, and/or well-being? We invite you to submit your abstract for a symposium (90 minutes), an individual presentation (flash talk and/or poster), or a teaching symposium. You can submit your abstract until March 1. 

Please see https://vnop.nl/submit/ for the instructions.