International Conference on Mycorrhiza heads to Australia for the first time – Cairns to Host ICOM2026

The world’s leading scientists in the field of mycorrhizal research will converge at the Cairns Convention Centre for the International Conference on Mycorrhiza (ICOM2026), taking place 12–17 July 2026 at the Cairns Convention Centre. It will be the first time the biennial event is held in Tropical North Queensland, Australia, spotlighting the country’s globally recognised research community and its rich ecological landscapes.

Themed: Mycorrhizas in a changing world: challenges, opportunities and solutions, ICOM2026 will bring together over 500 delegates from more than 40 countries, including top-tier researchers, policymakers, land managers, and early-career scientists. With four main plenary themes and more than 230 scientific talks, the conference will delve into topics such as evolution, genomics, ecosystem resilience, and climate adaptation through the lens of mycorrhizal symbiosis.

A key focus for the 2026 edition is fostering the next generation of scientists. The conference’s Rising Star Plenaries will showcase four early-career researchers in high-profile speaking slots, helping launch and accelerate promising careers in the field. Multiple networking events and workshops are also planned to create long-lasting connections across continents and disciplines.

Organisers have placed sustainability at the heart of ICOM2026, and this commitment is reflected in the conference branding. The ICOM2026 logo features a sea turtle, a symbol of ecological resilience, alongside stylised fungi and plant imagery that references biodiversity and sustainability.

Associate Professor, Jonathan M. Plett, ICOM2026 Co-convenor, shared his enthusiasm: “We’re excited to bring this conference to Australia. The diversity of mycorrhizal research here is matched only by the diversity of the ecosystems themselves. Cairns provides the perfect stage to discuss how mycorrhizal fungi can support a sustainable and resilient future.”

Janet Hamilton, General Manager of the Cairns Convention Centre, said: “We are delighted to welcome ICOM2026 to Cairns. The combination of our world-class facilities and the incredible biodiversity of the region provides a powerful platform for meaningful discussion and collaboration. Delegates can expect an unforgettable conference experience inside the Centre, and out in the natural environment that makes this place so special.”

Delegates will be strongly encouraged to extend their stay to explore one of the world’s most unique and beautiful regions. Cairns is the gateway to two UNESCO World Heritage-listed environments - the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest - offering unrivalled opportunities for coral reef diving, rainforest hikes, Indigenous cultural experiences and wildlife encounters. The region also boasts a thriving food and beverage scene, vibrant markets, and easy access to destinations like Port Douglas, the Atherton Tablelands and the Daintree Rainforest.

The event is supported by Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef (BECGBR), Tara Bennet, General Manager, Partnerships and Events concluded: “We are thrilled to welcome ICOM2026 to Cairns. This event aligns perfectly with our region’s focus on ecological stewardship, scientific collaboration and sustainable travel. Delegates will experience not only a world-class conference but also the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics rainforest.”

With a focus on sustainability, inclusion and scientific impact, ICOM2026 will leave a lasting legacy for delegates, the local community, and the global research community alike.

For more information, visit www.icom2026.org