ICAIS

Call for Abstracts of Oral and Poster Presentations

The International Scientific Committee invites the submission of 300-word abstracts for oral and poster presentations addressing invasive species issues in freshwater, marine and estuarine environments, with preference given to the topics listed below. The language of the conference is English.

The theme of ICAIS 2026 is Transcending Boundaries, to explore how aquatic invasive species can be addressed through the integration of research and practice across habitat types, geographic regions, scientific and other disciplines, and research-policy interfaces.

All abstract submissions will be peer-reviewed by a panel of expert judges with expertise in aquatic invasive species. Submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Clarity of Purpose and Content
    Is the abstract well-organized, clearly written, and easy to understand for a broad scientific audience? Abstracts must articulate a clear objective, methodology, and conclusion. Submissions should be well-structured, concise, and free of ambiguity.
  • Scientific Merit and Scholarly Depth
    Does the submission demonstrate rigorous methodology, sound reasoning, and a strong foundation in existing literature? Preference will be given to work that reflects critical analysis and academic depth.
  • Originality and Innovation
    Does the work offer fresh insights, innovative approaches, or new findings? Abstracts must present novel ideas, approaches, or findings. Submissions should clearly articulate how the work advances knowledge or practice in the field.
  • Data Availability
    Does the submissions clearly indicate the availability of supporting data? Preference will be given to abstracts that reference accessible, well-documented datasets or provide a plan for data sharing.
  • Relevance to Conference Theme and/or Purpose
    Does the submission align and meaningfully connect with the stated purpose, theme, and subtopics of the conference?

See members of the International Scientific Committee here.

Note: To preserve the scientific integrity of the conference, abstract submissions are limited to academic, government, and non-profit researchers. Commercial abstracts are not accepted. We would be pleased to discuss alternative opportunities for engagement, such as sponsorship or exhibition space in our industry showcase. Please feel free to contact us for further information.

Call Out to Students and Early Career Professionals

ICAIS 2026 will be the premier scientific conference on aquatic invasive species issues and will offer several unique professional development opportunities for students and early career professionals, including:

– Networking with world-renowned experts and peers in both structured and informal settings

– Career development opportunities for students and early career researchers

– Recognition and awards for top student presentations judged by a panel of academic experts

– Return of the ICAIS Oyster Program bursaries

Topics to be addressed during ICAIS 2026 include:

Research 

Ecological and Biological Dynamics

  • Ecology, evolution, and behaviour of aquatic invasive species
  • Roles of aquatic-terrestrial interfaces in the impact and management of aquatic invasive species
  • Bridging processes across aquatic invasive species taxa and their habitats
  • Rapid environmental change effects across invasion stages
  • Emerging and future aquatic invasion threats

Integrated Impact Assessments

  • Integrating ecological, economic, health, and societal effects of aquatic invasive species
  • Conservation paradoxes and ‘wicked problems’ for managing aquatic invasive species

Innovative Approaches and Tools

  • Transdisciplinary approaches in understanding invasion success and impacts
  • New tools and technologies to predict, monitor and control biological invasions
  • Innovative management strategies for early detection and rapid response

Management 

Policy, Governance, and Regulation

  • Bridging the gap between research and policy
  • Revisiting effectiveness of regulations on the prevention and management of aquatic invasive species
  • Managing invasive species in their native range to reduce spread risk

Collaborative and System-Wide Strategies

  • Whole-ecosystem approaches to reduce aquatic invasive species impacts and improve management
  • Transboundary collaborations and data management to reduce risk and impact
  • Nature-based solutions to counter invasions and improve management

Abstract submission

Abstracts must be submitted online and the deadline for submissions is Friday, September 26, 2025.

Call for Special Sessions and Workshops

The International Scientific Committee welcomes the submission of outlines of proposed special interest sessions and workshops pertaining to the theme and topics being addressed during the conference.

If you are submitting an abstract for a workshop or special session, please reach out to the conference organizers ahead of submitting your application to discuss it further by emailing icais@invasivespeciescentre.ca.

Outlines must include:

  • Title for the session or workshop
  • Names and email addresses of the primary organizers
  • 300-word maximum description of what will be covered, who will present, and the amount of time requested.

Outlines must be submitted online and the deadline for submissions is Friday, September 26, 2025.

Conference Proceedings

ICAIS is cooperating with the International Association for Open Knowledge on Invasive Species (INVASIVESNET) for publication of ICAIS 2026 conference proceedings in special issues of the INVASIVESNET open-access journal “Management of Biological Invasions.” Full research articles based on presentations made during ICAIS 2026 can be submitted for consideration.

For more information about these open-access journals, please visit the INVASIVESNET website.

Information Contact: icais@invasivespeciescentre.ca