Contact Lenses
Call for papers ahead of 50th anniversary BCLA conference
Call for papers ahead of 50th anniversary BCLA conference
The British Contact Lens Association is inviting researchers, eye care professionals and clinicians to submit papers, posters and workshop proposals for its 2027 Clinical Conference & Exhibition, as it prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
Taking place at the ICC Birmingham on 19–20 June 2027, the conference will mark five decades of the BCLA bringing together the contact lens and anterior eye community to share knowledge, advance clinical practice and improve patient care.
The call for submissions is an opportunity for the profession to be part of this landmark occasion, showcasing the latest research, clinical findings, case reports and best practice while looking ahead to the next chapter of contact lens and anterior eye care.
BCLA chief executive Brad Parkes said: “Our 50th anniversary is a significant milestone, and we want the 2027 conference to reflect both how far the profession has come and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
“Over five decades, research, innovation and the sharing of clinical expertise have helped shape the profession we know today. Our conference is where those conversations continue, bringing people together to challenge established thinking, exchange ideas and explore how we can deliver even better outcomes for patients.
“I would encourage everyone with something valuable to share, whether that is original research, an interesting clinical case or an innovative workshop idea, to put forward a submission. This is a chance to contribute to a special anniversary programme and help shape the future of our profession.”
Abstracts are invited for consideration as paper or poster presentations, covering research, clinical findings and best practice. Case reports are also welcome, although these can only be considered as posters.
Authors submitting research abstracts can opt in to be considered for the BCLA Da Vinci Award. Accepted paper abstracts can also be published in Contact Lens and Anterior Eye (CLAE), subject to author opt-in.
The BCLA is also seeking workshop proposals on topics related to contact lenses and/or the anterior eye. Sessions may focus on practical skills or peer review and should offer clear educational value, giving delegates opportunities to develop their knowledge, learn from colleagues and engage in discussion.
Paper and poster authors can take advantage of a pre-screening service, receiving one round of feedback from a member of the BCLA Academic Committee before submitting their final abstract. Pre-screening is intended to help authors refine their submissions but does not guarantee acceptance.
The key deadlines are:
- Monday 30 November 2026, 23:59 UK time: deadline for pre-screening submissions.
- Monday 11 January 2027, 23:59 UK time: final deadline for all submissions.
As the BCLA prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, prospective contributors are encouraged to get involved and help create a conference programme that celebrates the profession’s achievements while exploring the ideas, evidence and innovations that will shape its future.
To submit a scientific research abstract or workshop proposal, visit www.bcla.org.uk for full details of the submission process.
