Call for Papers 2026

Paranormal Research Symposium 2026
Presented by the Association of Paranormal Study

The Paranormal Research Symposium 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 symposium will take place on August 22, 2026, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Following the conference, selected presentations will be published in the Paranormal Research Symposium Journal, expanding access to the ideas and research shared during the event.

Abstracts may be submitted for presentations, workshops, or panels.

Conference Tracks

Submissions are welcome across a variety of research areas, including but not limited to:

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 or spiritual belief systems.

Tools and Technologies
Showcasing innovative methodologies and technologies used in paranormal investigation.

Paranormal Science
Exploring how scientific principles and research frameworks can be integrated into paranormal investigation.

Submission Guidelines

Abstract Submission Deadline

April 20, 2026

Notification of Acceptance

By May 18, 2026

Submission Requirements

Submissions that do not meet the following requirements will not be considered.

Abstracts must:

  • Be submitted as a Word document (.doc or .docx)
  • Be 300 words in length
  • Clearly outline the research question, methodology, findings, and conclusions
  • Specify whether the submission is for a presentation, workshop, or panel
  • Include the number of presenters, their names, and a designated point of contact
  • Specify any required audio or visual elements
  • Indicate whether the presenter is available to participate in optional Friday evening programming on August 21, 2026
  • Confirm that you are willing and able to provide an optional recorded version of your presentation following the symposium.

Friday evening activities may include:

  • Panels
  • Workshops
  • Gallery readings
  • Ghost tours
  • Informal discussion sessions or other attendee engagement opportunities

Event Schedule Overview

Friday, August 21, 2026
Optional evening programming will be held for VIP attendees and speakers. These activities are designed to encourage networking, collaboration, and informal discussion among members of the paranormal research community.

Saturday, August 22, 2026
The main symposium program will take place on this day.

Opening ceremonies will begin sometime between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM.
The final schedule will be shared with accepted speakers closer to the event.

Additional Notes

  • A projector and screen will be provided.
  • Presenters must bring their own sound equipment (speakers, microphones, etc.) if needed.

Panels
Please indicate if additional panelists outside of the listed participants are welcome.

Workshops
Please specify the maximum number of attendees and any per-person costs required to cover supplies or materials.

Submission Email

Abstracts should be emailed to:

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.

Evaluation criteria include:

  • Research quality and rigor
  • Originality
  • Clarity of methodology
  • Relevance to symposium themes
  • Audience engagement and accessibility

Full Papers

Speakers will be invited to submit a full paper based on their presentation for inclusion in the 2026 Paranormal Research Symposium Journal.

Details

Length: 1,000–5,000 words
Deadline: October 18, 2026

Complimentary Copies
Speakers will receive two complimentary copies of the journal.

Additional Copies
Speakers may purchase additional copies at a discounted rate for resale.

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, the symposium does not include a vendor room. This format encourages deeper conversations and 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 before or after the event. This allows presenters to connect with attendees while still participating fully in the symposium experience.

Presentation Recording Requirements

To expand access to the ideas shared at the symposium and support post-event educational resources, all speakers will be responsible for recording their own presentations.

Speakers should plan to provide a recorded version of their talk after the symposium for archival and potential educational use by the Paranormal Research Symposium.

Recording Guidelines

  • Speakers may record their presentation before, during, or after the symposium, depending on their preference.
  • Recordings should include slides and presenter audio whenever possible.
  • Acceptable formats include screen recordings, slide presentations with voiceover, or lecture-style video recordings.
  • Basic recording tools such as Zoom, PowerPoint recording, Loom, or similar platforms are acceptable.

Submission of Recordings

Recorded presentations should be submitted within two weeks following the symposium.

Recording Submission Deadline:
 September 5, 2026

These recordings may be used for:

  • Educational resources
  • Symposium archives
  • Possible online learning materials
  • Supporting content related to the symposium journal

Speakers will retain full credit and attribution for their work.

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 meaningful 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 focuses on sharing 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 22nd, 2026, in at the 1863 Inn 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: $189/night (breakfast included)
  • Dates: Check-in on Friday, 8/21 and check-out on Sunday, 8/23
  • Reservation: Call 866-953-4483 and mention Paranormal Research Symposium to receive the group rate.
  • Deadline: Reservations must be made by July 21, 2026 to secure the group rate.

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 April 20th, 2026. 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! The symposium 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 Available 3/17/26

  • Note: Workshop supplies fee is not included with ticket price.
  • Early Bird Registration: $50 (until June 30th)
  • Regular Registration: $60 (July 1st-August 23rd)
  • Door Price: $70 (August 23rd)
  • VIP Friday Night: TBA

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 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!