Tom Vierus Namena Marine Reserve in Fiji

Call for session proposals

We are excited to invite you to participate in the 16th International Coral Reef Symposium, taking place in Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand, 19–24th July 2026.

This event typically attracts thousands of delegates to discuss the most pressing issues in coral reef science and management. The conference will cover a wide range of topics around ‘Working together to ensure a future for coral reefs’, and we are seeking your valuable input to help shape the event.

We are calling for session proposals around eight broad themes aligned to the symposium plenary speakers, though proposals on any aspect of coral reef science and/or management are welcome:

  1. Traditional knowledge and management
  2. Historical perspectives on coral ecosystems
  3. Cell and molecular biology of reef organisms
  4. Coral reef ecology and connectivity
  5. Coral reef monitoring and assessment at scale
  6. Modelling the trajectories of future reefs
  7. Socio-ecological feedbacks: reef value, use, and stewardship
  8. Innovations in reef conservation and intervention

Each proposed session must have a lead chair, and we strongly encourage the inclusion of two or more co-chairs, with at least one being an early career researcher. Your submission should include a 250-word abstract outlining the session's relevance, key topics, and the expected audience. The chair and co-chairs will be responsible for reviewing and selecting abstracts and posters submitted to their session.

We strongly encourage submissions from delegates in developing nations, as we aim to foster a diverse and inclusive program.

Session proposal deadline: Sunday 15 June 2025

Submissions will be evaluated by the ICRS 2026 Science Committee, with final selection based upon fit to the overall conference schedule and priorities. If you have a great idea for a session but are unsure how to proceed, please contact the ICRS Science Committee Chair, Matt Nitschke, or submit your idea under the ‘Other’ theme.

We look forward to receiving your proposals and to your participation in what promises to be an inspiring and impactful conference.

Key dates

Call for sessions opens

2 May 2025

Call for sessions closes

15 June 2025

Call for sessions reviews open

20 June 2025

Call for sessions reviews close

4 July 2025

Call for abstracts opens

1 September 2025

Call for abstracts close

1 December 2025

Call for abstracts reviews open

8 December 2025

Call for abstracts reviews close

26 January 2025

Authors notified

1 February 2026

Registration deadline

1 April 2026

Program released online

1 June 2026