ECR SYMPOSIUM

ICOM2026 – Early Career Researcher Symposium

Sunday, 12 July 2026, 09:00-17:30

Cairns Convention Centre

For the first time, the International Conference on Mycorrhiza will host an Early Career Researcher Symposium at ICOM2026.

Organised by and for postgraduate students and ECRs, this event is designed to foster connections, support professional development, and increase visibility for emerging leaders in mycorrhizal research. (See ECR Committee)

The program will provide 15-minute presentations, rapid 5-minute lightning talks, an expert panel discussion with Q&A, alongside networking opportunities and career development workshops. This is a unique opportunity to engage with tomorrow’s leaders in mycorrhizal research while gaining practical strategies to increase the impact of your research and enhance your career progression.

Applications
Applications are now open, and we invite students and researchers within 7 years of completing their most recent degree (BSc, MSc, PhD) to submit an abstract to present their research at the ECR Symposium. (See Abstract Submission)

This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your work and contribute to shaping the future of mycorrhizal research. Awards will be presented for the best 15-minute and best lightning presentations! Following the symposium, attendees are warmly invited to an ECR social event to kick off ICOM2026 and connect with fellow mycorrhizal researchers from around the world.

Costing
This event is held before the ICOM2026 conference and is not included in the conference fee. The all-inclusive costing for the day will be 70 Euro/$82 USD/$125 AUD (**all charges will be in AUD; other costings given as a guide based on exchange rates in early-Dec) and will include:

• Access of all sessions
• Morning and afternoon tea
• Buffet lunch

Questions
For questions, don’t hesitate to contact the ECR Committee at info@icom2026.org.