The conference
NWO SHIFT addresses issues that are too complex to be viewed from a single perspective. How do we tackle societal challenges that interlink technology, behaviour, policy and society? At this conference, people from various disciplines and sectors will come together to exchange knowledge, connect perspectives and develop new insights, thereby creating a common ground for solutions that make a practical impact.
The central theme for 2026: Attention
The first edition of NWO SHIFT centres on the theme Attention – Shaping society in uncertain times. In a world shaped by constant stimuli and fierce competition for visibility, attention is not a neutral resource. It shapes authority and influence, affects how we understand ourselves and others, and ultimately determines whose voices are heard and whose are overlooked. NWO SHIFT invites attendees to explore the role of attention in power and decision-making, its psychological and existential dimensions, and its broader societal consequences.
Programme
The programme is structured around three thematic pillars: Attention & society, Attention & power and Attention & the self. Although the programme for the day is still under development, many of the speakers have already been confirmed. These include internationally recognised speaker Carl Miller, Peter-Paul Verbeek, Stefan van der Stigchel, Lisa Loeb, Haroon Sheikh, Idil Galip, Luc Sels, Amandine Lerusse, Rebecca Schaeffer, Claes de Vreese and Maarten Reesink. The full programme will be announced in Ocotber via our website.
Registration
NWO aims for a balanced mix of participants, ensuring that diverse sectors, disciplines and perspectives are represented. We therefore warmly invite you to register via the link below and to promote the conference within your network.
Register for NWO SHIFT
