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Abstract Submission Guidelines

Abu Dhabi, 22–26 March 2027 Theme: Seagrass Resilience – Protecting Biodiversity, Securing Our Future

The 16th International Seagrass Biology Workshop (ISBW16) and the 2027 World Seagrass Conference (WSC2027) invite researchers, practitioners, students, and community partners to prepare abstracts for consideration. These guidelines outline what contributors will be asked to provide and what to expect throughout the submission and review process.

  1. Key Dates

The following is the provisional timeline of key dates for the conference. Please refer to the website for any updates as the conference approaches:

  • Abstract submissions open 01 August 2026
  • Submission deadline 15 December 2026
  • Notification of acceptance by early January 2027 (within two months of submission)
  • Presenter registration deadline 31 January 2027
  • Final programme published 15 February 2027
  1. Conference Themes

Abstracts should align with one of the five scientific themes:

Theme 01: Seagrass Resilience in a Changing Climate

Theme 02: Biodiversity and Ecosystem Functioning

Theme 03: Seagrass Restoration and Rehabilitation

Theme 04: Human Dimensions of Seagrass Resilience

Theme 05: Innovative Tools and Technologies for Resilience

If unsure which theme fits best, select the closest match; the Scientific Committee may reassign themes during review.

  1. Presentation Formats

Authors can select from:

Long Oral Presentation: 12 minutes + 3 minutes Q&A

Short Oral Presentation: 4-minute rapid talk

Poster Presentation: Displayed during dedicated poster sessions

Workshop / Demonstration: Hands-on or methodological sessions (limited availability)

  1. What Authors Need to Prepare

The following are required:

  • Abstract title (max 20 words, Title Case)
  • Abstract text (max 300 words)
  • 3–5 keywords
  • Preferred presentation format
  • Theme selection
  • Author list and affiliations
  • Presenting author contact details
  • Short biography (50–80 words)
  • Headshot photograph (optional but recommended)
  • Confirmation of in-person attendance if accepted
  1. Submission Process (What to Expect)

Once the portal opens:

  1. Log in or create an account
  2. Complete all required fields
  3. Upload abstract text and author details
  4. Select presentation format and theme
  5. Review and submit
  6. Receive an automated confirmation email

Authors will be able to edit submissions until the published deadline.

This process will remain consistent throughout the submission window.

  1. Review Process

All abstracts will undergo blind peer review by the Scientific Committee. Evaluation will consider:

  • Scientific quality and clarity
  • Relevance to conference themes
  • Contribution to seagrass resilience knowledge
  • Appropriateness of methods
  • Potential for discussion and engagement

The Committee may adjust presentation format based on programme balance.

  1. Acceptance & Presenter Responsibilities

Accepted presenters will be asked to:

  • Confirm participation by the presenter confirmation deadline
  • Register for the conference
  • Prepare materials according to presenter guidelines (issued later)
  • Attend their scheduled session in person
  1. Support for Early-Career Researchers

Travel-support opportunities may be available for students and early-career scientists.Details will be provided during registration and do not depend on submission dates.

  1. Contact

For questions about preparing or submitting your abstract, please contact isbw16@ead.gov.ae