Conference Details

The Evolang conference series provides the major meeting for researchers studying the origins and evolution of language. Submissions may be in any relevant discipline, including, but not limited to: anthropology, archeology, biology, cognitive science, genetics, linguistics, computational modeling (including mathematical, agent-based, and neural-network models), paleontology, physiology, primatology, philosophy, semiotics, and psychology.

Normal standards of academic excellence apply. Submitted papers should make clear how they advance the study of language evolution and relate any novel results to up to date scientific literature. Submissions should make clear the method by which their claims are substantiated, the nature of the relevant data, and/or the core of the theoretical argument. Submissions centered around empirical studies should not rest on preliminary results. All submissions are refereed by at least three relevant referees, and acceptance is based on a scoring scheme pooling the reports of the referees. In recent conferences, the acceptance rate has been about 50%. The conference showcases both oral presentations and poster presentations.

next conference

Evolang XV will take place in Madison, WI USA in May, 2024 with Gary Lupyan as the chief local organizer.

Dates: May 18-21, 2024
Venue: Monona Terrace; Madison, WI, USA
Workshop proposals deadline (extended): Oct 13, 2023
Abstract submission deadline (extended): Oct 13, 2023

Local conference website

 

conference organizational cycle

This is the general cycle for the conference. For details on a specific conference please see its dedicated webpage.

  • Evolang takes place every two years, usually in March or April of even-numbered years. It typically spans four days (two half days and two full days).
  • The call for submissions goes out in the early months of the preceding year.
  • The deadline for submissions is in September of the preceding year.
  • Acceptance notifications are sent between November and December of the preceding year.
  • The conference announcement, with provisional programme, is made in January of the year of the conference.