Call for Papers
Not all AI is created equal. Unlocking the written past with specialised and general-purpose AI.
As AI becomes a standard tool in the humanities, a critical conversation is unfolding: How do different AI approaches truly serve the needs of scholars working with historical texts? While general-purpose AI offers broad versatility, specialised AI, such as the custom models developed by the Transkribus community, provides the precision required for complex palaeography and irregular layouts.
We invite researchers, archivists, librarians, and technologists to contribute to this dialogue at the upcoming Transkribus User Conference 2026 at the University of Passau. We welcome proposals from students, early-career researchers, and professionals, with a strong focus on contributions related to the conference theme.
Submission Deadline
20 March 2026
Submission Types
Choose the format that best fits your contribution
Lightning Talks (10 mins)
The Lightning Talks present an opportunity for Transkribus users to share their innovative work with the community. In a focused 5-minute presentation, followed by 5 minutes for questions, participants can showcase their projects, findings, or techniques in utilising Transkribus.
Abstract: 150 words
Round Tables (60 mins)
Round Tables offer an open platform for in-depth discussion and exploration of ideas, methodologies, and challenges related to how specialised and general-purpose AI are reshaping the Transkribus ecosystem. The submitted session should include a minimum of three participants to ensure an interactive, cooperative, and reflective dialogue aimed at fostering shared understanding and collaboration.
Abstract: 250 words
Workshops (120 mins)
Workshops are designed to cater to all experience levels, offering hands-on instruction from beginner to expert levels. If you have expertise in an area that aligns with the topic of Transkribus and specialised & general-purpose AI, we invite you to submit your workshop proposal. We welcome traditional formats as well as creative approaches, such as writing sprints or collaborative design sessions.
Abstract: 250 words
Scholarship Presentations (15 mins)
Transkribus Scholarship recipients, both students and teachers, are invited to share their work or insights from projects using Transkribus. Present the results or unique experiences from your research or courses, with a chance to be selected by a jury to present at TUC 2026. A reward of 10,000 credits will be given to each presenting scholarship beneficiary.
Abstract: 150 words
Poster Presentations
Poster Presentations are an opportunity to visually communicate your research, projects, or ideas related to Transkribus and the conversation about how different AI approaches serve the needs of scholars working with historical texts. Submit your poster for a chance to engage with other attendees, share your insights, and stimulate discussions in a more informal setting.
Abstract: 150 words
Submission Guidelines
What to include in your proposal
What to include in your initial submission
Title and Abstract
A clear, descriptive title and an abstract (max. 300 words) explaining your contribution.
Contact Information
Your name, email, and affiliation. Speaker bios and additional details will be collected after acceptance.
Submission Type
Indicate your preferred format: Lightning Talk (10 min), Round Table (60 min), Workshop (120 min), Scholarship Presentation (15 min), or Poster.
What to provide after acceptance
Speaker Information
A brief bio (max. 100 words). Include co-presenters if applicable.
Technical Requirements
Any special equipment or setup needed for your presentation or workshop.
Timeline
Key dates for the submission process
Call for Papers opens
Call for Papers closes
Notifications sent
Programme published
Conference
Ready to share your insights?
Submit your abstract and join the conversation at TUC 2026.
Submit your abstractQuestions? Contact us at tuc@transkribus.org