The 2003 Genetic and Evolutionary Computation Conference

Abstract

Abstract : This is the final report on the 2003 Genetic and Evolutionary Computation Conference (GECCO). Genetic and Evolutionary Computation (GEC) methods are algorithms based on natural selection and genetics to solve problems across the spectrum of human endeavor. The conference was very successful, with 520 attendees and 194 refereed papers and 119 refereed posters presented. Papers were selected from 441 submissions (up 33% from 2002). Attendees were from 33 different countries, providing a rich, diverse environment for scientific discussions. The acceptance rate was 46.5%. GECCO provided 31 tutorials and 13 workshops led by premier presenters and discussants. The participants involved students at every level so as to invest in the next generation of evolutionary computation scientists. There were 101 students who applied for travel support. All were funded to some extent using this AFOSR grant, grants from NSE/EIA and NRL, and industrial donations from DaimlerChrysler, Philips Research, Sun Microsystems, and New Light Industries. Industrial grants were down significantly this year despite an expansion in the number of industries that were contacted. Several traditional donors were unable to donate for the first time. Grants and donations totaled $37,000, which is above the event's historical average.