Topic-Contributed Sessions

A topic-contributed session is planned by one or more organizers and includes speakers presenting on a shared topic.

Topic-contributed sessions include papers, panels, and posters:

  • Topic-contributed paper sessions consist of five speakers, made up of at least three presenters and, at most, two discussants; each speaker has 20 minutes to present.
  • Topic-contributed panels consist of three to six members providing commentary or a point of view on the panel topic. Note: There are no individual abstracts/presentations in a panel session.
  • Topic-contributed poster sessions have 10–15 participants with posters addressing a common topic.

A topic-contributed session proposal includes a session title, general description of the session, list of participants, and tentative talk titles.

To propose a topic-contributed session:

  • Develop your idea and a list of speakers who agree to present on a common topic.
  • Submit your idea online from November 13 to December 10, 2025.
  • Await approval from a member of the JSM Program Committee.
  • Ensure all speakers submit individual abstracts by February 2, 2026, per the instructions received in your acceptance email (notifications will be sent in early January). Note: All speakers will be required to register for JSM.
  • Talk to potential authors early, as no participant can serve as a presenting author in more than one session.

Note: Not all proposed sessions will be accepted. Organizers will be notified of the status of their proposed session in early January 2026.

Key Dates

  • July 16, 2025 - September 3, 2025
    Online submission of invited session proposals
  • September 30, 2025
    Online submission of Continuing Education (CE) course proposals deadline
  • November 13, 2025 - December 10, 2025
    Online submission of topic-contributed session proposals
  • December 2, 2025 - February 2, 2026
    Online submission of abstracts (all except invited papers and panels)
  • January 15, 2026
    Computer Technology Workshop (CTW) proposal deadline
  • January 22, 2026 - April 2, 2026
    Online submission of JSM Meeting & Event Requests
  • January 27, 2026
    Deadline to request registration extension for government agencies
  • May 1, 2026
    Registration and housing open
  • June 1, 2026
    Draft manuscript deadline
  • June 1, 2026
    Early registration deadline
  • June 1, 2026
    Speaker registration deadline
  • June 2, 2026
    Regular registration (increased fees apply)
  • June 30, 2026
    Regular registration deadline
  • July 1, 2026
    Late registration (increased fees apply)
  • July 2, 2026
    Housing deadline
  • August 1, 2026 - August 6, 2026
    2026 Joint Statistical Meetings