With just days to go until RSS Conference 2026 arrives in Bournemouth, excitement is building across the statistical community. As always, the conference programme is packed with opportunities to learn, connect and be inspired.
Many attendees will already have their eye on this year's keynote speakers, whose talks – which cover p-values, political interference, public health and more – promise thought-provoking perspectives on some of the biggest issues facing statistics and data science today. But beyond the headline sessions, there are plenty of fascinating discussions, debates and activities waiting to be discovered.
Big Questions, Bold Debates
One of the joys of RSS Conference is encountering ideas that challenge how we think about statistics and its role in society.
This year, artificial intelligence is firmly on the agenda. Is Gen AI the death knell of statistics as we know it for business and industry? is sure to spark lively discussion as speakers consider whether generative AI represents a threat, opportunity or transformation for the profession.
For those who enjoy a healthy dose of controversy, Debating the "rules" of data visualisation with Nicola Rennie promises to challenge accepted wisdom and encourage participants to rethink some of the principles often treated as gospel in data communication.
Statistics Making a Difference
Take the lead: How health data and statistics can inspire, enable and connect communities will showcase how data can support better outcomes and stronger connections across society.
Meanwhile, Statisticians for Society: What Do the Data Tell Us? Five Years of Statistical Evidence on Stop and Search in England and Wales will explore how careful statistical analysis can contribute to understanding important social issues and public policy debates through the lens of our hugely successful Statisticians for Society initiative.
Environmental challenges will also be in focus. AI and impact on climate: is higher quality data the answer? examines the relationship between data quality, artificial intelligence and one of the defining issues of our time.
Looking Back to Move Forward
The Hidden Figures. Anderson Grey McKendrick and Jessamine Whitney: Pioneers in epidemiological statistics session shines a light on two influential figures whose contributions helped shape the development of epidemiology and statistical science. It's a reminder that today's innovations often build on decades of work by pioneering statisticians who don't always receive the recognition they deserve.
Skills for the Next Generation
10 key skills for Data Science that universities are failing to teach promises a frank discussion about the capabilities employers are increasingly looking for beyond technical expertise.
Career journeys and representation will also be explored in Plotting your path: Women in statistics and data science share their stories. Through personal experiences and reflections, speakers will discuss the opportunities, challenges and decisions that have shaped their careers.
Taking Care of Yourself, Too
Conference week is busy, and RSS Conference continues to offer opportunities to look after your wellbeing alongside your professional development.
Attendees can start Tuesday morning with a scenic 5k run along Bournemouth's coastline, taking advantage of the town's famous seafront before a day of sessions begins. For those seeking a gentler way to recharge, wellbeing activities also include chair yoga and breathwork, offering a chance to pause, stretch and reset during a packed conference schedule.
Connect, Collaborate and Celebrate
Some of the most valuable conversations happen outside the lecture theatre
The Welcome Reception on Bournemouth Pier provides the perfect setting to reconnect with colleagues - and meet new ones - while enjoying spectacular coastal views, while the ever-popular Young Statisticians Section Quiz Night returns, combining networking, friendly competition and plenty of fun. Whether you're there for the statistics questions or simply the atmosphere, it's always one of the highlights of conference week.
The Poster Reception is another event not to miss. It's a chance to explore innovative research from some of the brightest emerging researchers in statistics, and have direct conversations with the people behind the work.
See You in Bournemouth!