Call for Papers 2025

The Paranormal Research Symposium, presented by the Association of Paranormal Study, invites researchers, scholars, investigators, and enthusiasts to submit abstracts for our upcoming conference on paranormal research. This interdisciplinary conference aims to explore and discuss the unexplained, pushing the boundaries of academic and scientific inquiry into paranormal phenomena. The Paranormal Research Symposium will also publish a journal with the presentation topics after the conference.

Abstracts must be submitted for presentations, workshops, and panels.

Conference Tracks:

  • Parapsychology: Exploring extrasensory perception (ESP), telekinesis, and other psi phenomena.
  • Anomalistic Psychology: Investigating paranormal beliefs, experiences, and their psychological underpinnings.
  • UFO and Extraterrestrial Phenomena: Analyzing sightings, encounters, and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.
  • Cryptozoology: Examining elusive creatures and beings that challenge conventional zoological categorization.
  • Spirituality and the Paranormal: Discussing the intersection of paranormal experiences and religious/spiritual beliefs.
  • Tools and Technologies: Showcasing innovative methodologies and technologies for paranormal investigation.
  • Paranormal Science: Explore how to integrate scientific principles into paranormal investigations.

Submission Guidelines:

  • Abstract Submission Deadline: March 31st, 2025
  • Notification of Acceptance: by April 30th, 2025

Submission Requirements:

Submissions that do not meet requirements will not be considered.

See an example abstract here.

Abstracts must:

  • Be emailed as a Word document (.doc or .docx).
  • Be 300 words in length.
  • Clearly outline the question, research, methodology, and conclusion.
  • Specify if the submission is for a panel, presentation, or workshop.
  • Include the number of presenters, their names, and the designated point of contact.
  • Specify any required audio or visual elements.

Additional Notes:

  • A projector and screen will be provided.
  • Presenters must bring their own sound equipment (e.g., speakers, microphones).
  • For panels, indicate if additional panelists outside of the specified participants are welcome.
  • For workshops, specify the maximum number of attendees and any per-person costs (if applicable) to cover fees, supplies, etc.

Submission Email: paranormalresearchsymposium@gmail.com.

Selection Process:

All submissions will be reviewed by the Paranormal Research Symposium Proposal Committee. Abstracts will be evaluated using a point-based rubric to ensure a fair and consistent selection process. The rubric can be reviewed here.

Full Papers:

Speakers are required to submit a full paper on their presentation topic for inclusion in the 2025 Paranormal Research Symposium Journal.

Details:

  • Length: 1,000–5,000 words
  • Deadline: October 18, 2025
  • Complimentary Copies: Speakers will receive 2 complimentary copies of the journal.
  • Additional Copies: Speakers may purchase additional copies at a discounted rate for resale.

Friday Night Dinner:

Speakers will be invited to a casual Friday evening dinner on August 22nd in Gettysburg as an opportunity to network with other speakers and be in fellowship with like minded people. Volunteers and sponsors will also be in attendance.

Additional Details for Speakers

The Paranormal Research Symposium is designed as a true academic event, prioritizing collaboration and shared learning. To ensure that both speakers and attendees can actively engage in sessions, panels, and discussions, we do not offer a vendor room. This format encourages a deeper exchange of ideas and fosters meaningful connections among researchers, investigators, and enthusiasts.

Speakers are welcome to sell books or other materials during 30-minute breaks between sessions, the lunch break, and on their own time before or after the event. This approach allows speakers to connect directly with attendees, recover expenses, and still fully participate in the symposium experience.

Conference Highlights:

  • Distinguished Speakers: Featuring both established and emerging researchers and investigators in the paranormal field.
  • Engaging Discussions: Covering methodologies, theories, emerging trends, and ethical considerations in paranormal investigation.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow researchers, investigators, and enthusiasts to share insights and build valuable collaborations.

Important Links

Room Block Information | About the Conference | Venue Information

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a symposium and how is it different from a regular paranormal convention or paracon?

A symposium is a formal academic event that prioritizes the sharing of research, knowledge, and ideas through structured presentations, workshops, and panels. The Paranormal Research Symposium focuses on fostering intellectual exploration, collaboration, and the advancement of the field through an interdisciplinary approach, combining academic, scientific, and spiritual perspectives.

Unlike a typical paranormal convention or “paracon,” which often includes ghost hunts, social media influencers, live streamers, and vendor rooms, a symposium is more research-oriented. Paranormal conventions and paracons bring tremendous value to the community by offering entertainment, networking opportunities, and a space to connect with fans, influencers, and experts in a more casual environment.

The symposium, however, is designed for those looking to dive deeper into the study of paranormal phenomena, emphasizing academic depth, structured discussions, and professional collaboration. Both types of events serve important purposes in the paranormal field, offering unique opportunities to explore the unknown in their own distinct ways.

When and where will the Symposium be held?

The symposium will take place on August 23rd, 2025, in at the 1863 Inn of Gettysburg and Ghostly Images of Gettysburg in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

What is the Paranormal Research Symposium?

The Paranormal Research Symposium is an interdisciplinary conference hosted by the Association of Paranormal Study. It brings together researchers, scholars, investigators, and enthusiasts to explore and discuss paranormal phenomena, bridging the academic, spiritual, and scientific aspects of the field.

Is there room block information for attendees?

Yes! We’ve arranged room blocks at two hotels in Gettysburg for attendees of the Paranormal Research Symposium. Here are the details:

1863 Inn of Gettysburg

  • Address: 516 Baltimore St, Gettysburg, PA 17325
  • Rate: $183/night (breakfast included)
  • Dates: Check-in on Friday, 8/22 and check-out on Sunday, 8/24
  • Reservation: Call 866-953-4483 and mention Paranormal Research Symposium to receive the group rate.
  • Deadline: Reservations must be made by July 8, 2025 to secure the group rate.

Quality Inn Gettysburg Battlefield

  • Address: 380 Steinwehr Ave., Gettysburg, PA, 17325
  • Rates:
    • $185/night for first floor (2 Queen beds)
    • $175/night for second floor (2 Queen beds)
  • Dates: Check-in on Friday, 8/22 and check-out on Saturday, 8/24
  • Booking Link: Click here to reserve
  • Deadline: Rooms must be reserved by July 23, 2025, or they will be released to the general public.

Reserve early to ensure you secure your accommodations!

Who can attend the symposium?

The symposium is open to anyone interested in paranormal research, including academics, investigators, enthusiasts, and those curious about the unexplained. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just beginning your journey, you’re welcome to join us.

How do I submit an abstract for a presentation, workshop, or panel?

Abstracts (300 words) should outline the question, research, methodology, and conclusion. Submissions must be emailed as a Word document to paranormalresearchsymposium@gmail.com by March 31, 2025. Be sure to follow all submission guidelines provided on our website.

What are the conference tracks?

We feature a diverse array of tracks, including:

  • Parapsychology
  • Anomalistic Psychology
  • UFO and Extraterrestrial Phenomena
  • Cryptozoology
  • Spirituality and the Paranormal
  • Tools and Technologies
  • Paranormal Science

Each track offers unique opportunities to explore cutting-edge research and methodologies.

Why doesn’t the Symposium have vendors or a vendor room?

The Paranormal Research Symposium is designed as a true academic event, prioritizing collaboration and shared learning. We want our speakers and attendees to actively engage in sessions, panels, and discussions rather than spending the day behind a vendor table. This format encourages a deeper exchange of ideas and fosters meaningful connections among researchers, investigators, and enthusiasts.

Speakers are welcome to sell books or other materials during breaks or on their own time throughout the event to help recover expenses for attending the symposium. This approach ensures everyone can fully participate in and benefit from the symposium experience.

Are there networking opportunities?

Yes! A casual networking dinner for speakers, volunteers, and sponsors will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025, in Gettysburg. The symposium also encourages connections and collaborations among attendees throughout the event.

Will there be a publication of the Symposium’s presentations?

Yes, speakers will submit a full paper of their presentation topic for a journal dedicated to the 2025 Paranormal Research Symposium. This journal will provide a lasting resource for those passionate about paranormal studies.

What is the cost of attending the symposium?

Tickets now available here

  • Note: Workshop supplies fee is not included with ticket price.
  • Early Bird Registration: $40 (until June 30th)
  • Regular Registration: $50 (July 1st-August 23rd)
  • Door Price: $60 (August 23rd)

Can I volunteer at the symposium?

Absolutely! Volunteers play a crucial role in making the event a success. Contact us at paranormalresearchsymposium@gmail.com for information on how to get involved. We will also have a form to fill out.

Are children allowed at the symposium?

Yes, children are welcome, but they must remain under parent or guardian supervision at all times. Please ensure all attendees adhere to the dress code and conference policies.

What is the policy on photography and video recording?

Please ask for consent from presenters before photographing or recording their presentations, workshops, or panels. This ensures the privacy and intellectual property rights of our speakers.

Is there a dress code for the symposium?

Yes, all attendees must wear family-friendly attire in conference areas.

What safety measures are in place?

The Paranormal Research Symposium prioritizes the safety and comfort of all attendees. Staff members, identifiable by red badges, are available to assist with any concerns. Harassment or bullying of any kind will not be tolerated.

What should I do if I have additional questions?

For any additional inquiries, email us at paranormalresearchsymposium@gmail.com, and we’ll be happy to assist you!