Introduction

The query of submitting the same research paper to two different conferences can be a highly sensitive and complex issue within the academic community. Several conferences, particularly those that publish full articles, discourage or outright prohibit this practice. However, it is not an absolute rule everywhere, especially for abstract-only conferences.

General Guidelines for Paper Submissions

In general, submitting the same research paper to two different conferences is not recommended, especially if both conferences will publish the full article. Some conferences, such as those focusing only on abstract submission, may be more lenient since the articles are not fully published. However, the academic community is relatively small, and your paper may still be reviewed by the same individuals. If detected, this practice could severely damage your reputation and affect your future submissions.

Academic Reputation: The academic community is tightly connected. If you are caught submitting the same work to multiple publications, it can significantly harm your professional standing. Peer review is based on trust, and such actions can result in a loss of credibility.

Rules for Specific Conferences

The Society of Neuroscience (SfN) has strict rules regarding abstract and poster submissions. The organization stipulates that work submitted for presentation should not have been previously reported in an archival scientific publication as either an article or an abstract at the time of submission. In addition, the abstract and poster presentation may not be presented at another meeting prior to the scheduled SfN presentation date, unless it is at a published satellite event. Authors must adhere to SfN's embargo policy, which ensures that all information presented at the annual meeting is embargoed until the time of presentation, unless it is involved in an SfN-hosted press conference.

SfN's Embargo Policy

Under SfN's policy, any information presented at the annual meeting is embargoed until the time of the actual presentation. This rule can be relaxed in the case of SfN-hosted press conferences, where information is embargoed until after the press conference.

It is important to note that such rules and policies are not universal across all conferences. While many conferences have similar guidelines, the specifics may vary. It is advisable to check the submission guidelines of each conference you are considering for a more accurate understanding of the rules.

Expert Opinion

While I am not an expert in every conference, it is generally accepted in research communities that submitting the same paper to multiple conferences is not ethical. It is crucial to refer to the specific guidelines of the conferences you are interested in to avoid any potential misunderstandings or mishaps.

Conclusion

When considering submitting the same research paper to two different conferences, it is highly recommended to adhere to the guidelines of each conference. Even for abstract-only conferences, prioritizing originality and upholding the integrity of the academic community is crucial. Ultimately, the decision to submit the same paper to multiple venues should be made with caution, considering the implications for your academic reputation and ethical standards.