Highlights from the 2026 APS Annual Convention in Barcelona

Uniting Minds: A Global Nexus for Psychological Science Innovation

A Global Gathering of Psychological Science Enthusiasts

The 2026 APS Annual Convention, held in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain, attracted approximately 2,500 participants representing 73 different nations. This significant international turnout underscored the event's stature as a premier platform for exchanging ideas and fostering global collaborations within the field of psychological science.

Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter in Psychological Science

Following the successful Barcelona convention, anticipation builds for the 2027 Annual Convention. This upcoming event is set to take place in Seattle, Washington, from May 27 to May 30, 2027, promising another dynamic forum for scientific discourse and networking.

Recognizing Excellence: Lifetime Achievement Honors

During the awards ceremony, distinguished recipients of the APS Lifetime Achievement Award, Marci Lobel from Stony Brook University and Kathy Hirsch-Pasek from Temple University, were celebrated. Their presence highlighted the convention's commitment to acknowledging significant contributions to psychological science.

Industry Engagement: A New Era of Collaboration

The convention introduced its inaugural Industry Day, a pioneering initiative that facilitated engaging dialogues between attendees and presenters across four dedicated sessions. This new feature aimed to bridge the gap between academic research and practical applications in various industries.

Exploring Frontier Topics: AI and Language Models

A key highlight was the "Psychological Science and Society Presidential Plenary Panel Session: New Directions in AI and Large Language Models." Esteemed presenters, including Nuria Oliver, David Garcia, and Ryan Boyd, shared their perspectives and answered questions, showcasing the evolving intersection of psychology and cutting-edge technology.

Showcasing Research: The Poster Sessions

The convention featured 14 extensive poster sessions, exhibiting 1,580 posters from a diverse array of researchers. These sessions provided invaluable opportunities for scholars to present their work, discuss findings, and receive feedback from peers.

Leadership and Mentorship: Shaping the Future of the Field

Discussions also revolved around "Global Perspectives on Mentorship: Fostering International Growth in Psychological Science," with panelists like Bria Gresham, Paul A.M. van Lange, Nainika Hira, and Cristina Lopez Rojas. This session emphasized the importance of guidance and collaboration in nurturing the next generation of psychological scientists.

Awarding Outstanding Contributions: The William James Fellow Award

Deanna M. Barch from Washington University at St. Louis was honored with the APS William James Fellow Award. APS President James W. Pennebaker presented the accolade during the annual award ceremony, recognizing Barch's exceptional contributions to the field.

Insights from Leaders: Perspectives on Industry Day

Marianne Fallon, Executive Director of Psi Chi, delivered a compelling address to a capacity audience during the first Industry Day, sharing valuable insights on professional development and career paths within psychological science. Additionally, APS President James W. Pennebaker engaged in discussions with Industry Day speaker Cindy Chung of Travelers Insurance, further cementing the convention's focus on linking research with real-world impac