Instructions for Session Chairs

Session chairpersons ensure smooth operation and time management. Use the points below as best-practice guidance.

• Introduce yourself and your co-chair; announce the session name; ask attendees to take seats promptly and move to the front/centre.
• Invited speakers sit in the first row and approach the lectern only when it is their time to present.
• A technician will be in the hall to assist; notify them immediately of any equipment issues.
• Ask attendees to set mobile phones to silent.
• Ask the audience to open the session in the congress app and submit questions via the app if they prefer not to use the microphones.

• Introduce speakers and talk titles as listed in the program (use the congress app: open the session to view speaker names and lecture titles).
• Keep the session on time; politely interrupt speakers who exceed their allocated time.
• If a speaker leaves no time for questions, proceed directly to the next lecture (no Q&A).
• Have backup questions ready in case the audience does not ask any.
• Manage questions from the floor and those submitted via the iPads at the head table.

• At the end of the session, thank the presenters.

The ESTS Scientific Committee thanks you for this important contribution to the success of the conference.