Covid-19 claims another conference – Redux 2020

The Redux Conference 2020 is moving to the summer and will become an open, online event called Redux Online.

The organisers – The Association of Learned & Professional Society Publishers (ALPSP) and Cambridge University Press – made the move to ensure the conference goes ahead despite challenges caused by the spread of the novel coronavirus Covid-19.

Those due to attend the conference will be offered the choice between a full refund and putting their registration fee towards crowdfunding Redux Online, which be an open event available to anyone who wants to attend. Sponsors will be offered the chance to transfer their sponsorship across to the new event.

While details are yet to be finalised, the event will involve recorded presentations followed by live debate. The plan is to retain as much of the original agenda and line-up as possible. Those shortlisted for the Redux Sustainability Award – new to this year’s event – will also be invited to give online presentations. 

Mandy Hill, managing director of academic publishing at Cambridge University Press, said: 'While it is hard to know how the next few weeks will play out, it seems certain that an event in March would be compromised and that would not be fair to those attending or to those unable to come through circumstances beyond their control.

'Instead, we want to create this alternative event to preserve the hard work that’s gone in and generate positive results from a difficult situation. We are contacting all attendees, speakers and chairs and will keep them updated as details are agreed.'

Wayne Sime, chief executive of ALPSP, added: 'This is chance to hold an exemplary virtual event, retaining the quality of the original and built in partnership with our fantastic international community.

'We hope that many in that community will want to help us make Redux Online a success and will allow us to use their registration fees to crowdfund the event. We will be holding another joint Cambridge University Press and ALPSP Redux conference in 2022 and we will hold the registration fee at current prices for any of this year’s attendees who choose to support Redux Online.'

Organisers have contacted all those due to attend Redux2020 and will be providing them with more details about Redux Online as they become available.