IRL Symposium 2027 FAQ

Registration & Attendance

When and where is the 2027 Indian River Lagoon Symposium?

The 2027 Indian River Lagoon Symposium will be held Thursday, February 18, 2027, at FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute in Fort Pierce, Florida.

Who can attend the Symposium?

The Symposium is open to researchers, resource managers, students, educators, community members, and anyone interested in the Indian River Lagoon.

Is there a registration fee?

Yes. Registration is required to attend the Symposium.

Registration Fees

  • Regular/Professional: $80
  • Student – Graduate: $40
  • Student – Undergraduate: $30
  • Student – High School: $30

When does registration open and close?

General registration will be open from December 15, 2026, through January 30, 2027. Advance registration is required to attend the Symposium.

What is included with registration?

Registration includes access to all Symposium sessions, poster session and social, lunch, and coffee breaks.

Abstract Submission

What is the abstract submission window?

Abstract submissions will be accepted from October 1 through November 23, 2026. Late abstracts will not be considered.

Do I need to register before submitting an abstract?

Yes. You must register for the Symposium before submitting an abstract. Your registration confirmation email from DonotReply@touchnet.fau.edu will include a link to the abstract submission form. Check your spam or junk folder if you do not receive the email.

What if my organization does not allow me to register before my abstract is accepted?

If your organization does not allow registration prior to abstract acceptance, please contact irlsymposium@fau.edu for assistance with submitting your abstract.

Who can submit an abstract?

Researchers, students, resource managers, practitioners, and others working on topics related to the Indian River Lagoon are encouraged to submit.

Does my abstract need to address the Symposium theme?

No. Abstracts addressing all aspects of Indian River Lagoon research, monitoring, restoration, management, and outreach are welcome. However, preference will be given to submissions that address the 2027 Symposium theme, Sentinels of the Lagoon: Species, Habitats, and Signals of Change.

When will presenters be notified?

Presenters will be notified of abstract acceptance and presentation format in mid-December 2026.

Event Information

What is the schedule for the Symposium?

The IRL Symposium is a full-day event featuring a keynote presentation, oral and poster presentations, and opportunities for networking. A detailed schedule will be posted following abstract review and program development.

What should I know about campus access?

FAU Harbor Branch is a closed campus with controlled access. Only registered Symposium attendees will be permitted access to campus on the day of the event. Additional information about campus entry, parking, and check-in will be provided to registered attendees prior to the Symposium.

Will the Symposium be livestreamed?

Yes. The Symposium will be livestreamed on YouTube and available to watch free of charge. A link to the livestream will be posted on the Symposium website closer to the event.

Who should I contact with questions?

For questions about the IRL Symposium, please contact irlsymposium@fau.edu.

Additional Information
Florida Atlantic's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute engages with the community through the Ocean Discovery Visitors Center and the Ocean Science Lecture Series. Harbor Branch’s research and outreach programs translate marine science in order to provide solutions that improve economies and quality of life for coastal communities.
Address
Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
Florida Atlantic University
5600 US 1 North
Fort Pierce, FL 34946