53rd ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Aberdeen, Scotland
tba May, 2027
Aberdeen, Scotland
tba May, 2027
We are delighted to welcome delegates to Aberdeen for the 53rd Annual Conference of the Regional Science Association International – British and Irish Section (RSAI-BIS), hosted by the James Hutton Institute at the University of Aberdeen on [DATES], 2027.
Bringing together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from across regional science and related disciplines, the annual conference provides an opportunity to share cutting-edge research, foster collaborations, and discuss pressing territorial challenges shaping places and communities.
Located on Scotland’s northeast coast, Aberdeen offers a distinctive setting for regional science discussions. As a city shaped by global energy markets, economic transformation, coastal geographies, and connections to rural and island communities, Aberdeen provides a fitting backdrop for conversations on regional development, inequality, sustainability, innovation, and place-based policy.
The conference will take place over [X] days at the University of Aberdeen, one of the UK’s oldest universities, located in the historic setting of Old Aberdeen (SPECIFIC LOCATION). Alongside a vibrant academic programme, delegates will have opportunities to connect through social events, including the conference dinner and the traditional RSAI-BIS pub quiz.
We look forward to welcoming you to Aberdeen (the Granite City) in 2027.
Bringing together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from across regional science and related disciplines, the annual conference provides an opportunity to share cutting-edge research, foster collaborations, and discuss pressing territorial challenges shaping places and communities.
Located on Scotland’s northeast coast, Aberdeen offers a distinctive setting for regional science discussions. As a city shaped by global energy markets, economic transformation, coastal geographies, and connections to rural and island communities, Aberdeen provides a fitting backdrop for conversations on regional development, inequality, sustainability, innovation, and place-based policy.
The conference will take place over [X] days at the University of Aberdeen, one of the UK’s oldest universities, located in the historic setting of Old Aberdeen (SPECIFIC LOCATION). Alongside a vibrant academic programme, delegates will have opportunities to connect through social events, including the conference dinner and the traditional RSAI-BIS pub quiz.
We look forward to welcoming you to Aberdeen (the Granite City) in 2027.
Getting to the Conference Venue
The conference will take place at the University of Aberdeen campus in Old Aberdeen, located approximately 10–15 minutes from Aberdeen city centre by bus or taxi, and around 30 minutes on foot from Aberdeen Railway Station.
By Bus
The University of Aberdeen campus is well served by regular local bus services connecting the city centre, railway station, and surrounding areas.
Frequent First Bus routes, including services 1, 2, and 20, stop near the university campus. Delegates travelling from the city centre should use stops on King Street or High Street, both located within a short walk of the main university buildings.
Buses depart regularly from Union Street and the city centre, with journey times typically between 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Aberdeen Railway Station and Aberdeen Bus Station are centrally located and provide onward transport links across Scotland and the wider UK.
By Train
Aberdeen Railway Station is located in the city centre and provides direct rail connections to major destinations including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Inverness, and London.
The University of Aberdeen campus can be reached from the station by:
By Bike
Aberdeen is increasingly cycle-friendly, with dedicated cycling routes across parts of the city. Bicycle parking and bike racks are available throughout the University of Aberdeen campus. Delegates staying in the city centre may also find cycling a convenient option for travelling to and from the conference venue.
By Car
The University of Aberdeen campus is accessible via the A90 and surrounding local road network. Parking availability on campus will be confirmed closer to the conference date. As parking may be limited, delegates are encouraged to consider public transport, walking, or shared travel where possible.
Several public car parks are available within Aberdeen city centre, with taxi and bus links to the university campus.
The conference will take place at the University of Aberdeen campus in Old Aberdeen, located approximately 10–15 minutes from Aberdeen city centre by bus or taxi, and around 30 minutes on foot from Aberdeen Railway Station.
By Bus
The University of Aberdeen campus is well served by regular local bus services connecting the city centre, railway station, and surrounding areas.
Frequent First Bus routes, including services 1, 2, and 20, stop near the university campus. Delegates travelling from the city centre should use stops on King Street or High Street, both located within a short walk of the main university buildings.
Buses depart regularly from Union Street and the city centre, with journey times typically between 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Aberdeen Railway Station and Aberdeen Bus Station are centrally located and provide onward transport links across Scotland and the wider UK.
By Train
Aberdeen Railway Station is located in the city centre and provides direct rail connections to major destinations including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Inverness, and London.
The University of Aberdeen campus can be reached from the station by:
- Bus: Regular services operate from the city centre to Old Aberdeen (approximately 10–15 minutes).
- Taxi: A taxi journey typically takes around 10 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Walking: Delegates wishing to walk can reach the campus in approximately 30 minutes, passing through the city centre and historic Old Aberdeen.
By Bike
Aberdeen is increasingly cycle-friendly, with dedicated cycling routes across parts of the city. Bicycle parking and bike racks are available throughout the University of Aberdeen campus. Delegates staying in the city centre may also find cycling a convenient option for travelling to and from the conference venue.
By Car
The University of Aberdeen campus is accessible via the A90 and surrounding local road network. Parking availability on campus will be confirmed closer to the conference date. As parking may be limited, delegates are encouraged to consider public transport, walking, or shared travel where possible.
Several public car parks are available within Aberdeen city centre, with taxi and bus links to the university campus.
Conference fees
Registration for the RSAI-BIS Annual Meeting in Belfast, May 2026, will open after the notification of abstract decisions (March 7th, 2024).
This year's conference fees (in Sterling) are as follows:
Standard member (Early bird until March 31st) - £280
Standard member (After March 31st) - £320
PhD student - £130
Early career researcher (3 years post PhD) - £170
Retired / emeritus member - £130
Accompanying person (social activities and dinner) - £50
Registration for the RSAI-BIS Annual Meeting in Belfast, May 2026, will open after the notification of abstract decisions (March 7th, 2024).
This year's conference fees (in Sterling) are as follows:
Standard member (Early bird until March 31st) - £280
Standard member (After March 31st) - £320
PhD student - £130
Early career researcher (3 years post PhD) - £170
Retired / emeritus member - £130
Accompanying person (social activities and dinner) - £50
Conference Venue
The conference will take place at the University of Aberdeen, one of the UK’s oldest universities, located in the historic district of Old Aberdeen.
Founded in 1495, the university combines historic architecture with modern facilities and provides an inspiring setting for discussions on regional science, spatial inequalities, sustainability, and place-based policy.
The campus is located approximately 10–15 minutes by bus or taxi from Aberdeen city centre, and around 30 minutes on foot from Aberdeen Railway Station.
Further details regarding conference buildings, registration, and room locations will be made available closer to the conference date.
Venue Address
University of Aberdeen
Old Aberdeen
Aberdeen, AB24 3FX
Google Maps Link: [to be added]
Accommodation
Aberdeen offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to premium city-centre stays. Most hotels are located within Aberdeen city centre and offer convenient bus, taxi, or walking access to the University of Aberdeen campus.
We have not reserved conference room blocks at this stage, and delegates are encouraged to book early, particularly during busy periods.
Suggested HotelsCity Centre / Near Railway Station
Getting to Aberdeen
Aberdeen is well connected by air, rail, coach, and road, with regular services from across the UK and international connections via major transport hubs.
By AirAberdeen International Airport (ABZ) is located approximately 20 minutes from the city centre and provides direct connections to major UK destinations, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Belfast, Southampton, and international hubs such as Amsterdam and Paris.
From the airport:
Bus:
The Jet 727 bus service connects Aberdeen Airport with Aberdeen city centre approximately every 10–20 minutes.
Taxi:
Taxis are available outside the terminal building, with journeys to the city centre typically taking 20–25 minutes.
Train:
Aberdeen Railway Station offers direct rail connections to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Inverness, and London King’s Cross, including overnight sleeper options.
The station is centrally located and provides straightforward onward access to the university campus by bus, taxi, or on foot.
Coach:
National Express and Scottish Citylink operate regular coach services connecting Aberdeen with destinations across Scotland and the UK.
Aberdeen Bus Station is located adjacent to the railway station in the city centre.
Ferry:
Aberdeen remains an important port city, with ferry services connecting to the Northern Isles, including Orkney and Shetland.
For delegates travelling internationally or via ferry routes, onward rail and coach connections are available through Scotland’s wider transport network.
Getting Around Aberdeen
Aberdeen is a compact and walkable city, with good public transport connections between the city centre, railway station, airport, and university campus.
Local buses operate frequently throughout the city, and taxis are widely available.
Walking between the city centre and the University of Aberdeen takes approximately 25–35 minutes, depending on location. The city’s coastal setting and historic Old Aberdeen district also make walking an attractive option for delegates wishing to explore the area.
The conference will take place at the University of Aberdeen, one of the UK’s oldest universities, located in the historic district of Old Aberdeen.
Founded in 1495, the university combines historic architecture with modern facilities and provides an inspiring setting for discussions on regional science, spatial inequalities, sustainability, and place-based policy.
The campus is located approximately 10–15 minutes by bus or taxi from Aberdeen city centre, and around 30 minutes on foot from Aberdeen Railway Station.
Further details regarding conference buildings, registration, and room locations will be made available closer to the conference date.
Venue Address
University of Aberdeen
Old Aberdeen
Aberdeen, AB24 3FX
Google Maps Link: [to be added]
Accommodation
Aberdeen offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to premium city-centre stays. Most hotels are located within Aberdeen city centre and offer convenient bus, taxi, or walking access to the University of Aberdeen campus.
We have not reserved conference room blocks at this stage, and delegates are encouraged to book early, particularly during busy periods.
Suggested HotelsCity Centre / Near Railway Station
- Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel (modern hotel, approximately 10 minutes by taxi to campus)
- Leonardo Hotel Aberdeen (central location, close to Union Street and transport links)
- Mercure Aberdeen Caledonian Hotel (city centre, opposite Union Terrace Gardens)
- Premier Inn Aberdeen City Centre (accessible and budget-friendly option)
- Travelodge Aberdeen Central (budget option near city centre)
- Holiday Inn Express Aberdeen City Centre (convenient access to campus and city centre)
- Copthorne Hotel Aberdeen (quiet location with straightforward bus links to campus)
Getting to Aberdeen
Aberdeen is well connected by air, rail, coach, and road, with regular services from across the UK and international connections via major transport hubs.
By AirAberdeen International Airport (ABZ) is located approximately 20 minutes from the city centre and provides direct connections to major UK destinations, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Belfast, Southampton, and international hubs such as Amsterdam and Paris.
From the airport:
Bus:
The Jet 727 bus service connects Aberdeen Airport with Aberdeen city centre approximately every 10–20 minutes.
Taxi:
Taxis are available outside the terminal building, with journeys to the city centre typically taking 20–25 minutes.
Train:
Aberdeen Railway Station offers direct rail connections to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Inverness, and London King’s Cross, including overnight sleeper options.
The station is centrally located and provides straightforward onward access to the university campus by bus, taxi, or on foot.
Coach:
National Express and Scottish Citylink operate regular coach services connecting Aberdeen with destinations across Scotland and the UK.
Aberdeen Bus Station is located adjacent to the railway station in the city centre.
Ferry:
Aberdeen remains an important port city, with ferry services connecting to the Northern Isles, including Orkney and Shetland.
For delegates travelling internationally or via ferry routes, onward rail and coach connections are available through Scotland’s wider transport network.
Getting Around Aberdeen
Aberdeen is a compact and walkable city, with good public transport connections between the city centre, railway station, airport, and university campus.
Local buses operate frequently throughout the city, and taxis are widely available.
Walking between the city centre and the University of Aberdeen takes approximately 25–35 minutes, depending on location. The city’s coastal setting and historic Old Aberdeen district also make walking an attractive option for delegates wishing to explore the area.