MEEHubs2026 – A hub-based conference on Microbial Ecology and Evolution

Science is a global endeavor, but traveling across the planet for conferences is a resource intensive activity, producing a large amount of CO2 emissions. In addition, international scientific conferences are often organized in the Global North, making it expensive and bureaucratically difficult for people in the Global South to attend, reducing democratic access to science. Virtual conferences offer a viable alternative: they reduce environmental impact, broaden participation across countries, and improve accessibility for researchers with disabilities or care-giving responsibilities. At the same time, in-person interactions remain essential for building community and fostering collaboration.

MEEHubs offers a hybrid model that combines the strengths of both approaches: remote content for global accessibility and in-person interactions through local hubs worldwide. Building on the success of MEEHubs2024 (link to paper), we are thrilled to announce that MEEHubs2026 will take place from August 3–5, 2026, at seven local hubs and online.

NCCR Microbiomes, Switzerland’s National Centre of Competence in Research dedicated to advancing microbiome science through interdisciplinary collaboration, proudly supports MEEhubs2026. Building on its pivotal role as the main sponsor of MEEhubs2024, which pioneered a sustainable, multi-hub format for microbial ecology and evolution, this backing ensures an inclusive, low-carbon platform connecting global researchers. Join us for innovative exchanges that lower barriers to participation.

More info and sign up via MEEHubs2026