New Data that Challenge Underlying Assumptions in
Early Galaxy Evolution



Schoodic Institute, Acadia National Park, Maine

28 July - 1 August, 2025


From the production of the first dust grains to the growth of supermassive black holes, paradigms of galaxy evolution in the z > 1 cosmos that were once thought fixed are now being contested.  Our goal is to reconceptualize our long held assumptions in light of new observations and theory, and we welcome applicants from all research areas.  A goal of this conference is to collectively co-author a white paper on the most pressing paradigms in our field challenged by new results. 

As galaxy evolution is revitalized, so too is the culture of astronomy through new ways of creating, collaborating, and sharing knowledge.  This workshop places equal emphasis on challenging scientific paradigms and critically inspecting and bettering our ways of doing science.  Participants will be empowered to lead workshops, hacks, and discussions dedicated to topics such as inclusion, climate change, and outreach.  A goal of this conference is to collectively co-author a white paper on the state of our community. 

Schoodic Institute is Acadia National Park’s primary partner in science and education and is located on the homeland of the Wabanaki, People of the Dawn. Participants are encouraged to learn about Wabanaki sovereignty at wabanakialliance.com/sovereignty and the Wabanaki Studies Law at wabanakialliance.com/wabanaki-studies-law. We are collaborating with the Wabanaki people on activities for the unconference.

One of our goals is to ensure that the voices that are represented at the conference cover broad areas of change from both science and culture, so our application form goes beyond a simple abstract submission.  We are hoping to provide ample opportunity for applicants to convey the full breadth of their interest in change-making within galaxy evolution and beyond.


Please keep this in mind as you fill out the multi-component application, linked below.

On-site lodging and meal costs for all participants are included in the conference registration fee. Early career researchers are also eligible for travel grants, courtesy of NRAO, on an as-needed basis to further offset the cost of attending.


For more information about this workshop, visit the choir conference website!