Top 10 Academic Conferences in Canada You Should Attend in 2027

If you're looking for academic conferences in Canada in 2027, this guide covers 10 events across fields such as business management, economics, artificial intelligence, engineering, physics, chemistry, and the humanities. Each listing includes the conference dates, location, and main academic focus to help you find events relevant to your research, professional interests, or career goals.

We selected these conferences based on their relevance to their respective fields, the academic or professional value of their programmes, opportunities for research exchange and networking, and the event information available from organizers. Listed in chronological order, this guide makes it easier to compare upcoming conferences and plan your 2027 schedule.

Top 10 Academic Conferences in Canada in 2027: Dates and Locations

1. 190th Global Conference on Business Management and Economics (GCBME)

Dates: February 5–7, 2027

Location: Douglas College, New Westminster, Greater Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Organizer: Global Conference Alliance Inc.

Best for: University professors, business researchers, economists, management scholars, consultants, and industry professionals.

The 190th Global Conference on Business Management and Economics (GCBME) will take place on February 5–7, 2027, at Douglas College in New Westminster, Greater Vancouver. Organized by Global Conference Alliance Inc., this international conference brings together academics, researchers, and professionals interested in business management and economics.

The conference covers several important areas of business and economics, including business innovation, financial management, leadership strategies, marketing, and international trade. These topics offer opportunities to explore current developments, discuss business and economic challenges, and exchange perspectives on management practices and organizational decision-making.

As part of our broader multidisciplinary conference programme in Greater Vancouver, GCBME also gives participants opportunities to connect with attendees from related academic and professional fields. Whether you are conducting business research, teaching management and economics, or working in a business-related profession, the conference offers an opportunity to share your knowledge, discuss ideas, and build professional connections.

Why attend? If your academic or professional interests involve business management, economics, finance, marketing, or leadership, GCBME offers an opportunity to participate in discussions relevant to your field. You can attend as an author, speaker, or listener, depending on your participation goals and the applicable requirements. Researchers interested in presenting their work can also explore the conference's submission guidelines.

2. AAAI-27: 41st Annual AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence

Dates: February 16–23, 2027

Location: Palais des congrès de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada

Organizer: Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI)

Best for: AI researchers, computer scientists, university professors, research scientists, students, engineers, and technology professionals.

The 41st Annual AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence (AAAI-27) is scheduled for February 16–23, 2027, in Montréal, Canada. Organized by the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence, this international research conference brings together scientists, researchers, practitioners, students, and engineers working across artificial intelligence and related disciplines.

The conference covers a broad range of AI research areas, including machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, intelligent robotics, knowledge representation and reasoning, multiagent systems, and AI ethics. Its 2027 programme also features dedicated tracks on AI Alignment and AI for Social Impact, addressing important research questions surrounding the development, application, and broader impact of artificial intelligence.

Participants can explore the conference's technical paper presentations, invited talks, specialized research tracks, workshops, tutorials, poster sessions, competitions, and exhibition programmes. These different sessions provide opportunities to learn about recent scientific contributions, examine emerging research approaches, and engage with researchers working on different aspects of artificial intelligence.

Why attend? AAAI-27 is particularly relevant for researchers and professionals who want to stay informed about developments in artificial intelligence and engage with the international AI research community. Whether your work focuses on machine learning, robotics, natural language processing, AI ethics, or intelligent systems, the conference offers opportunities to explore current research, exchange technical perspectives, and develop academic connections with others in the field.

3. 114th Global Conference on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (GCMLAI)

Dates: February 19–21, 2027

Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Venue to be announced)

Organizer: Global Conference Alliance Inc.

Registration deadline: February 5, 2027.

Best for: AI researchers, computer science faculty, data scientists, technology professionals, university professors, and academics interested in applied artificial intelligence.

The 114th Global Conference on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (GCMLAI) will take place on February 19–21, 2027, in Toronto, Canada. Organized by Global Conference Alliance Inc., this conference brings together researchers, academics, and technology professionals interested in developments in machine learning and artificial intelligence.

The conference focuses on machine learning, emerging AI technologies, and their applications across different fields. These areas are particularly relevant as researchers explore how intelligent systems can address challenges in business, healthcare, education, engineering, and other disciplines. Discussions around data quality, algorithmic accountability, model reliability, and the responsible use of AI also make important contributions to understanding how these technologies affect organizations and society.

As part of our wider multidisciplinary conference programme in Toronto, GCMLAI takes place alongside other subject-specific events, giving participants opportunities to connect with academics and professionals from different backgrounds. Participants can attend as authors, speakers, or listeners, depending on their interests and applicable participation requirements.

Toronto also offers an interesting setting for an AI-focused conference. The city has an established artificial intelligence research community, with institutions such as the University of Toronto and the Vector Institute contributing to research in machine learning, deep learning, and other areas of AI. For international participants, attending GCMLAI also provides an opportunity to experience one of Canada's major academic and technology centres.

Why attend? If your work or research involves machine learning, artificial intelligence, data science, or intelligent systems, GCMLAI offers an opportunity to exchange ideas with other researchers and professionals. You can explore developments in applied AI, discuss research interests, and build connections with participants from different academic and professional fields.

4. Canadian Chemical Engineering Conference (CSChE 2027)

Date: May 16–19, 2027

Location: Edmonton, Alberta

Organizer: Chemical Institute of Canada

Best for: Chemical engineering professors, researchers, scientists, industrial engineers, and professionals working in energy and materials.

Chemical engineering contributes to some of the most important scientific and industrial challenges facing the world today. From energy efficiency and environmental sustainability to advanced materials and industrial processes, research in chemical engineering often requires collaboration among universities, laboratories, and industry. The Canadian Chemical Engineering Conference provides a meeting place for these communities.

The 2027 event will take place in Edmonton, a city closely connected to Canada’s energy and engineering sectors.

The conference provides opportunities for researchers and professionals to discuss scientific advances, engineering applications, and emerging industry challenges.

For university faculty, participation offers exposure to developments beyond their own research groups. It can also help identify opportunities for applied research, industry partnerships, and future collaborative projects.

The conference’s professional networking and career-related activities make it relevant to participants at different stages of their academic and professional careers.

Why attend? CSChE 2027 is especially valuable for academics and engineering professionals interested in connecting scientific research with practical industrial applications.

5. Upper Bound 2027

Date: May 18–21, 2027

Location: Edmonton Convention Centre, Alberta

Organizer: Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute (Amii)

Best for: AI researchers, university faculty, technology executives, entrepreneurs, and innovation professionals.

One of the continuing challenges in academic research is translating scientific findings into practical applications. A technology that performs well in a research environment may encounter very different challenges when introduced into an organization or commercial setting.

Upper Bound focuses on bridging this gap between artificial intelligence research and implementation.

Organized by the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute, the conference connects researchers, technology professionals, businesses, and organizational leaders interested in AI. Unlike traditional academic conferences that primarily emphasize scholarly papers, Upper Bound places considerable attention on real-world applications, innovation, and technology adoption.

Academic administrators responsible for innovation, technology transfer, and industry engagement may also find the event useful.

Why attend? Upper Bound offers a valuable opportunity for participants interested in connecting artificial intelligence research with practical innovation and organizational applications.

6. Canadian Association of Physicists Congress 2027

Date: June 7–11, 2027, with pre-congress activities on June 6

Location: Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s

Organizer: Canadian Association of Physicists

Best for: Physics professors, research scientists, postdoctoral researchers, laboratory specialists, and science educators.

Physics research often involves highly specialized questions, yet significant scientific progress frequently emerges through collaboration.

Researchers working in different institutions may approach similar problems using different theoretical or experimental methods. The Canadian Association of Physicists Congress provides an established national forum for these exchanges.

The 2027 Congress will be hosted by Memorial University of Newfoundland in St. John’s. The gathering brings together members of Canada’s physics community and international researchers for scientific presentations, professional discussions, and opportunities for scholarly engagement.

For university faculty, the Congress provides opportunities to maintain relationships with colleagues, examine emerging developments in physics research, and identify possibilities for collaboration.

Discussions concerning physics education, research policy, and the scientific community can also be particularly useful to academic leaders and researchers involved in departmental or institutional planning.

Why attend? CAP Congress 2027 is a strong option for physicists seeking scholarly exchange and connections within the Canadian and international physics communities.

7. Canadian Society for Civil Engineering Annual Conference (CSCE 2027)

Date: June 16–18, 2027

Location: Calgary, Alberta

Organizer: Canadian Society for Civil Engineering

Best for: Civil engineering faculty, infrastructure researchers, engineering consultants, construction professionals, and public-sector specialists.

Civil engineering research is increasingly shaped by changing infrastructure needs, climate-related risks, urbanization, and the demand for sustainable development.

Addressing these challenges requires cooperation among universities, engineering professionals, governments, and industry.

The Canadian Society for Civil Engineering’s 2027 Annual Conference will take place in Calgary under the theme Strengthening Canada through Civil Engineering Leadership.

The conference provides opportunities for discussions across several areas of civil engineering, including structural engineering, transportation, construction, environmental engineering, and infrastructure development.

For university professors and researchers, the event offers opportunities to explore how academic findings can influence engineering practice and public infrastructure decisions.

It is also relevant to researchers interested in applied engineering, sustainability, and the development of professional standards. Authors considering conference submissions should review the applicable peer-review and proceedings requirements.

Why attend? CSCE 2027 offers a useful forum for academics and professionals working on engineering research with practical implications for infrastructure and sustainable development.

8. Administrative Sciences Association of Canada Conference (ASAC 2027)

Date: June 25–28, 2027

Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Organizer: Administrative Sciences Association of Canada

Best for: Business professors, management researchers, university faculty, academic administrators, and scholars in administrative sciences.

The Administrative Sciences Association of Canada has a longstanding role in bringing together researchers working across business and management disciplines.

Its annual conference provides opportunities for scholarly exchange, research presentations, academic networking, and professional development. The 2027 conference will be hosted by the University of Prince Edward Island’s McDougall Faculty of Business.

Under the theme The World Needs More Canada, the event will explore the contribution of business scholarship to contemporary economic and societal challenges.

For university faculty, ASAC offers opportunities to receive research feedback, exchange ideas with disciplinary colleagues, and develop academic relationships.

The conference also includes opportunities related to research development and academic publishing. Selected papers may be invited to pursue further consideration through the Canadian Journal of Administrative Sciences, subject to its editorial and review requirements.

In addition, professional development workshops, doctoral activities, and academic career discussions contribute to the event’s broader value.

Why attend? ASAC 2027 is particularly relevant to business and management academics interested in research dissemination, scholarly feedback, publication development, and professional networking.

9. Congress of the Humanities and Social Sciences 2027

Dates: May 18–21, 2027 (virtual); July 5–9, 2027 (in person)

Location: Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia

Organizer: Federation for the Humanities and Social Sciences

Best for: Humanities professors, social scientists, interdisciplinary researchers, academic associations, and research leaders.

Many of today’s most important research questions require perspectives from more than one academic discipline.

Issues involving migration, social inequality, education, democracy, cultural identity, and technological change cannot always be understood through a single theoretical or methodological approach.

The Congress of the Humanities and Social Sciences creates opportunities for scholars working across these areas to exchange ideas.

The 2027 Congress will feature a renewed format, combining virtual programming in May with an in-person gathering at Simon Fraser University in July. Its theme, Confluences, invites participants to consider connections among histories, cultures, languages, and communities.

For university professors and researchers, Congress provides access to a broad academic community extending beyond individual departments and disciplines.

It is particularly valuable for scholars pursuing interdisciplinary research, exploring institutional partnerships, or examining questions with important public-policy implications.

The event also offers opportunities for discussions about the role of universities, academic research, and the humanities and social sciences in contemporary society.

Why attend? Congress 2027 is particularly suitable for academics seeking interdisciplinary collaboration and engagement with Canada’s broader scholarly community.

10. IUPAC World Chemistry Congress and Canadian Chemistry Conference 2027

Date: July 9–16, 2027

Location: Montréal, Quebec

Organizers: International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry and Canadian chemistry organizations

Best for: Chemistry professors, laboratory scientists, industrial chemists, research teams, and academics working in chemical sciences.

Chemistry research increasingly depends on international and interdisciplinary collaboration. Advances in pharmaceuticals, materials science, environmental chemistry, energy, and industrial processes often require researchers from different institutions to share expertise and resources.

The 2027 IUPAC World Chemistry Congress will be held alongside the 110th Canadian Chemistry Conference and Exhibition in Montréal. The combined event is expected to attract approximately 3,500 scientists, students, and professionals from around the world.

The conference theme, Engaging Chemistry, reflects the importance of collaboration and the contribution of chemical sciences to contemporary global challenges.

For university researchers, the congress offers opportunities to examine emerging scientific directions, present findings, and engage with international colleagues.

Established academics may find particular value in strengthening research networks, identifying potential collaborators, and exploring opportunities for international research projects.

Why attend? IUPAC 2027 is a significant opportunity for academics and professionals interested in international scientific exchange across the chemical sciences.

How to Choose a Legitimate Academic Conference

Choosing an academic conference requires more than finding an event that matches your research interests. You should also consider the conference's academic value, organizer, programme, publication opportunities, and practical arrangements before deciding to attend. The following points can help you evaluate a conference and determine whether it is suitable for your academic or professional goals.

1. Choose a Conference That Matches Your Research Interests

Start by checking whether the conference topics align with your academic discipline, research interests, or professional expertise. Review the programme, session themes, and intended audience to understand what the event covers. Your career stage also matters. Early-career researchers may look for opportunities to present their work, receive feedback, and build academic connections, while experienced academics may prioritize specialized discussions, research collaborations, and engagement with other experts in their fields.

2. Research the Conference Organizer and Its Background

Find out which organization, academic institution, or professional association is responsible for the conference. Check its official website, organizational background, and previous events. If the conference has been held before, reviewing earlier programmes, speakers, and published proceedings can help you understand its academic focus and history. You can also ask colleagues, research supervisors, or other academics in your field whether they are familiar with the event.

3. Review the Academic Programme and Research Opportunities

A credible academic conference should provide clear information about its subject areas, programme, speakers, and participation requirements. If you intend to present research, check how abstracts or full papers are evaluated and whether the conference explains its review process. You should also review the programme to see whether its presentations, workshops, discussions, and other sessions are relevant to your research interests.

4. Check Conference Proceedings and Publication Opportunities

If publishing your research is one of your goals, find out whether the conference publishes abstracts, full papers, or conference proceedings. Check the publisher, publication requirements, review process, and any additional publication fees. Also, verify indexing claims directly through the relevant academic databases rather than assuming that publication with a particular publisher guarantees indexing.

5. Consider Registration Costs, Travel, and Visa Requirements

Before registering, calculate the overall cost of attending, including registration fees, transportation, accommodation, meals, and other travel expenses. International participants should also check Canada's current entry and visa requirements based on their citizenship and travel circumstances. Review the registration deadlines, payment terms, and cancellation or refund policies before making travel arrangements.

A Short Checklist for Identifying a Legitimate Academic Conference

Before submitting an abstract or registering, consider the following questions:

• Is the conference organizer clearly identified and independently verifiable?

• Are the conference dates, venue, programme, and registration fees clearly stated?

• Are the academic committee members and invited speakers identifiable?

• Is the conference scope relevant to your research or professional interests?

• Does the organizer explain its abstract or paper review process?

• Are publication and indexing arrangements clearly explained and verifiable?

• Can you find information about previous editions, programmes, or proceedings, if applicable?

• Are the organizer's contact details, payment terms, and cancellation policies accessible?

Be cautious if a conference makes unrealistic promises about guaranteed publication or acceptance, provides little information about its organizers, or pressures researchers to register or pay immediately. Unclear fees, unverifiable speakers, and vague academic programmes are also reasons to investigate further.

No single warning sign automatically proves that a conference is illegitimate. However, checking these details together can help you make a more informed decision before committing your time, money, and research.

Our Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Canadian Conference

After eight years of organizing academic and professional conferences, we've learned that good preparation can make a big difference to the overall conference experience. Whether you're presenting research, attending sessions, or meeting other professionals, a few simple steps can help you make the most of your time in Canada. Here are some things to keep in mind before attending:

• Submit your abstract early: If you plan to present your research, check the abstract submission guidelines and deadline as soon as possible. Preparing early gives you enough time to review your work and make any necessary revisions.

• Plan your networking activities: Review the conference programme, speaker profiles, and session topics before arriving. Identify researchers or professionals you would like to meet and prepare a few questions or discussion points. If the event offers an attendee networking app, check how to use it before the conference begins.

• Arrange your travel and accommodation in advance: Book your flights and accommodation early to have more options and avoid last-minute arrangements. Consider the distance between your hotel and the conference venue, local transportation, and the event schedule when planning your stay.

• Check professional development opportunities: If you need continuing professional development (CPD) hours or credits, ask the organizers whether the conference offers them and whether they are recognized by your professional association or regulatory body. Also, confirm the number of eligible hours and the documentation provided. A Certificate of Attendance does not automatically qualify as an accredited CPD certificate.

Travel and Visa Considerations for International Delegates

If you are travelling to Canada from another country, check the entry requirements well before your planned departure. Your requirements depend on your nationality, passport, and method of travel.

• Check visa or eTA requirements early: Find out whether you need a Canadian visitor visa, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), or other travel documentation. Visa-exempt foreign nationals generally need an eTA when flying to Canada. Check your requirements through the official Government of Canada immigration website.

• Request an official invitation letter: If you need a visitor visa, contact the conference organizers after confirming your registration to request an invitation letter. Check whether they need your registration details, passport information, or other documents to prepare it. An invitation letter can support your visa application, but it does not guarantee visa approval.

• Prepare your supporting documents: Keep your conference registration confirmation, invitation letter, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and any other documents required for your application. Follow the latest instructions from Canadian immigration authorities and allow sufficient time for visa processing.

Canada offers plenty of opportunities for researchers, academics, and professionals to share their work, learn from others, and build international connections. The 10 conferences featured in this guide cover different academic and professional fields, giving you several options to consider for 2027.

Before choosing an event, take time to review its programme, participation requirements, and registration details. Consider which conference best matches your research interests and professional goals, and start planning early to make the most of your experience.