Microbiome ANCHOR Conference

Microbiome Anchor
Conference

June 8-10, 2026
Oak Island Resort
Western Shore, Nova Scotia

For researchers interested in microbial communities,
the methods used to study them, and their diverse applications.

Sean Gibbons, PhD Institute for Systems Biology Seattle, Washington

Isabelle Laforest-Lapointe, PhD Université de Sherbrooke Sherbrooke, Quebec

Leila J. Hamdan, PhD University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Mason Stothart, PhD Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources Kentville, Nova Scotia

John Parkinson, PhD SickKids Toronto, Ontario

Nezar Al-Hebshi, PhD Temple University Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Steven Kembel, PhD Université du Québec à Montréal Monetreal, Quebec

Come take in the ocean air, sweeping coastal views, and experience the mysteries of Oak Island!
Microbiome ANCHOR is being held at Oak Island Resort & Conference Centre, - 36 Treasure Dr, Western Shore, Nova Scotia, Canada (Map) .
Oak Island Resort & Conference Centre is approximately 100km (~1 hr) from Halifax Stanfield International Airport Travel.
You may rent a car or take a taxi to Oak Island Resort. For taxi service, we recommend On Time Flight Taxi Services. They accommodate up to 6 passengers, offer student discounts, and can be booked online in advance.

After an inspiring day of talks, head to Three Sheets Bar + Social in the evening to continue networking and take in some live entertainment.
Interested in the mysteries of Oak Island? Boat tours are available here.
At the on-site marina you can access boat tours or rent a bike, paddle board, or kayak.
Oak Island Resort has multiple options for on-site recreation including an indoor pool, fitness room, tennis court, mini putt, and walking trials. Check out a full list of activities here
Just a short drive away are several great attractions.

3 nights accommodation at Oak Island Resort (June 7-9)
Access to all conference proceedings:
- Keynote presentation and all conference sessions (June 8-10)
- Flash talks and poster sessions (June 8-9)
Meals include breakfast (June 8-10), lunch (June 8-10), dinner (June 8-9) and snacks (June 8-10).
Evening networking at Three Sheets Bar & Social (June 7, 8, and 9)
Use of Oak Island recreation facilities

Early-bird registration ~~March 31, 2026~~ EXTENDED to April 17, 2026: $1450 + HST
Regular registration April 18th – May 15th: $1650 + HST
Registration rates are the same for all attendees (PIs, trainees, etc.)
Abstracts due ~~March 31, 2026~~ EXTENDED to April 17, 2026
All abstracts aligning to the conference theme will be accepted into the program (minimum poster).