An AMS Panel Discussion is a session where all of the research is presented through a panel discussion. Each panel discussion typically has 3-5 presenters and 1-2 moderators. A Panel Discussion should minimize the use of formal slide presentations and focus on engaging the panelists and the audience in discussion. Panels do not contain abstracts. Panel Discussions may also be held as a Joint Panel Discussion, which is a Panel Discussion that is planned and run by more than one conference or symposium. These are a great way to gather a group of people together to discuss an issue of public concern, provide feedback on something, or brainstorm solutions to a problem. 

Please note an abstract cannot be transferred into a Panel Discussion without consent by the presenting author. Presenters should be notified they would participate in part of a Panel Discussion  instead of giving a 15-minute oral presentation. Abstract fees would not be refunded. Should a panel contain presentation files or an abstract, the presenting author will be charged an abstract fee ($120). A single slide introduction (limited to 5 minutes) can be added if there are no other presentations. AMS Meetings Staff must be notified if an introduction slide will be provided.  

Guidelines for Preparing an AMS Panel 

1. Identify the topic for the panel discussion and assign a moderator. 
2. Identify the panelists. Panelists should be well informed on the topic or issue. Please limit a panel discussion to 5-6 panelists with 3-4 in-person panelists and 1 moderator. (Please note the standard room set includes a head table of appropriate size, which most commonly is able to accommodate 4 participants with 2 panel microphones and a podium microphone.) 
   1. If there is an abstract or any panelist would like to provide slides, the $120 abstract fee will apply for each uploaded presentation. Please plan accordingly. If no one has an individual presentation or time slot then there will be no abstract fee. 
   2. A $120 submission fee will be invoiced to any panelist who uploads a presentation onsite in the Speaker Ready Room and does not have an abstract in place.

Guidelines for Conducting an AMS Panel 

1. Set the length of time. The moderator will be responsible for making sure the panel is conducted within the time limit of the panel. 
2. Work closely with the moderator and panelists on the format your panel discussion will follow.
   1. A typical format might go as:  Moderator introduces the panelists and the topic of the panel. The panelists then express their views and opinions on the topic as well as any research they have done in the area.  Panelists are introduced or introduce themselves. Then panelists discuss the topic or issue with each other. Interaction between the panelists is encouraged by having them ask each other questions pertaining to the topic. They should express their opinions and views of the topic.  Moderator calls for a period in which the audience members may participate in the discussion by addressing questions to the panelists. Audience is also encouraged to voice their own views and opinions. 
3. Make sure the moderator and the panelists are aware of the panel format, as well as any questions on the topic that have been preselected to help them be better prepared as a panelist.