Innovating the Future: HKN’s First Papers Conference

Sponsored by Eta Kappa Nu (HKN), the honor society of IEEE, this one-day, in-person conference on 6 November 2026 is dedicated to showcasing the pioneering work of student researchers currently enrolled in accredited U.S. institutions of higher education. Eligible contributors must be undergraduate or graduate students pursuing degrees in disciplines aligned with IEEE’s mission and scope.

This event provides a focused platform for students to present original research, engage in mentorship, and gain firsthand experience with the academic publishing process. The conference is structured exclusively around paper presentation sessions, with a limited number of accepted papers to ensure high-quality discourse and meaningful engagement.

The program will feature:

  • Opening remarks and keynote address
  • Thematic paper presentation sessions 
  • Networking breaks and mentor-student meetups
  • A closing session recognizing outstanding contributions

This conference is more than a venue for presenting research—it is a launchpad for future innovators committed to advancing technology for humanity. Through mentorship, publication, and community engagement, the conference embodies the mission of Eta Kappa Nu and IEEE: to elevate excellence in engineering, computing, and the sciences

Two-Phase Structure

This conference follows a two-phase submission and review process designed to support students through the full lifecycle of academic publication:

Phase 1: Extended Abstract Review and Mentorship Assignment

Participants begin by submitting a 2-page extended abstract that outlines the scope, significance, and methodology of their research. These abstracts will be reviewed for thematic alignment, technical relevance, and clarity. Accepted abstracts will be matched with mentors—experienced IEEE members and faculty—who will guide students through the development of their full papers.

Phase 2: Full Paper Submission and Review

Following mentorship, students will submit a 5–6-page final paper, formatted according to IEEE conference standards. These papers will undergo peer review, with mentors continuing to support revisions and refinement. Only papers accepted through this process will be scheduled for presentation.

Submission site opens February 15th

Submit an Abstract

Scopes and Disciplines

Scopes and Disciplines

Submissions are invited from a broad spectrum of IEEE-related fields, including but not limited to:

  • Core disciplines: Computing, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering
  • Extended disciplines: Biomedical Engineering, Mechatronics, Photonics, Telecommunications, Power Systems, Embedded Systems, Intelligent Transportation Systems

Research topics may span emerging and transformative technologies such as:

  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Quantum Computing
  • Cybersecurity and Privacy
  • Sustainable Energy and Smart Grids
  • Robotics and Human-Centered Design
  • Edge and Cloud Computing
  • Advanced Communication Systems

Mentorship Experience

A cornerstone of this conference is its mentorship initiative, which aims to demystify the academic publishing process and empower emerging scholars. Each accepted abstract will be paired with a mentor who will provide personalized guidance in:

  • Ideation and conceptualization
  • Structuring and writing for scholarly impact
  • Navigating peer review and revision
  • Preparing the final manuscript for IEEE publication

This program is designed not only to improve the quality of submissions but also to foster long-term skills in academic writing, research communication, and professional development.

Presentation and Publication Requirements

All accepted papers must be presented in person at the conference. This requirement ensures that authors engage directly with peers, mentors, and reviewers, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and feedback.

It is required that at least one student author will register for and attend the conference, which is expected to cost between $350 and $500.

Following the presentation, all accepted papers will be:

  • Published in the official conference proceedings
  • Submitted for inclusion in IEEE Xplore, the IEEE digital library, providing global visibility and academic recognition

Timeline

  • Submission for Abstracts: Open February 15, 2026
  • Deadline for Abstracts: April 15, 2026
  • Notify Abstract Authors & Mentor Assignment: June 1, 2026
  • Receive Final Paper Submissions: August 1, 2026
  • Notify Authors: By Sept 11, 2026
  • Final Papers Due: September 25, 2026
  • Conference Date: November 6, 2026