BPS 2027 will be held at Riddel Hall, Queen's University Belfast (QUB) on 7th & 8th January 2027 with an opening drinks reception with posters session on the evening of 6th January 2027 on Main Campus.

Phycology research and innovation are longstanding strengths of Queen’s University Belfast, with over five decades of pioneering work in algal biology, marine biodiversity, sustainable harvesting and aquaculture, established by Prof. Matt Dring and Prof. Christine Maggs. This legacy of interdisciplinary collaboration has driven significant advances in seaweed research and cultivation, including the record-breaking production of 20 tonnes of seaweed at Queen’s University Marine Laboratory (QML) in 2018 as part of the SeaGas project.

Today, conference hosts Dr Pamela Walsh and Dr Susan Clarke continue to promote interdisciplinary research and innovation, supported by the expertise of Honorary Professor Christine Maggs and the invaluable technical support of Emma Healey and the team at QML.

The aim of this conference is to bring together phycologists, researchers, students and representatives working across marine and freshwater algae, from microalgae to seaweeds, to share knowledge, showcase research and strengthen collaboration. The programme spans general and applied phycology, marine heatwaves, coastal restoration, biotechnology and science outreach, alongside the student Manton Prize presentations and a dedicated session on Lough Neagh, providing a platform to exchange ideas and shape the future of phycological research and its applications.