ICOM2026/ICOM13

Australia is an area known for its diversity of unusual flora and fauna; from quintessential kangaroos and koalas, to unique and colorful birds and sea life, to an incredible diversity of plants. But beneath the soils of this beautiful continent lies a greater diversity of life with mycorrhizal fungi supporting forests, grasslands and agriculture. Due to this, per capita, Australasia boasts an incredible number of mycorrhizal researchers, making it a hotspot for ecological and molecular study of these amazing fungi and a sought-after destination for international collaborations.

Caught between the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests, Cairns is a city for the connoisseur, the historian, and the adventurer alike. With a commitment to sustainability, to inclusion, and to lowering our environmental impact, we have designed a conference experience that maximizes modern and well-catered convenience while maintaining a low carbon footprint and providing unparalleled opportunities for students and early career researchers to showcase their research. Paired with a social program, included in the registration costing, that will enable all participants to experience Australian nature at its best, this conference will provide many opportunities for research groups from all over the world to mingle and new collaborations to be fostered.

A/Prof. Jonathan Plett on behalf of the organizing committee