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March 24, 2026
An international week dedicated to anadromous salmonids at the University of Hólar!
From March 2–7, 2026, the University of Hólar hosted the NoWPaS International Workshop of PhDs and Post-doctoral Fellows on Anadromous Salmonids. During this five-day event, 35 researchers from across the globe — including Iceland, Norway, France, England, Canada, Sweden, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales — gathered to share their work and exchange ideas on anadromous salmonids.
The week kicked off on Monday at the Marine & Freshwater Research Institute in Reykjavík, where the Research Director, Christophe Pampoulie, presented the ongoing projects and led participants on an insightful visit of the institute. It was a fantastic introduction to a week filled with scientific exploration, engaging discussions, and collaboration. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the conference sessions took place at the University of Hólar, structured around key themes: ecology, movement and management, evolutionary ecology and genetics, and conservation. These sessions sparked lively discussions and meaningful exchanges. Between talks, participants enjoyed Hólar’s unique facilities — including the outdoor heated pool, hot pot, and sauna — as well as the Beer Club, creating a relaxed and social atmosphere. The onsite organisation, led by Gabrielle Ladurée, played a key role in the success of the event. Throughout the week, early-career scientists were also in the spotlight. Master’s students Alex and Alyssa, along with interns Romane and Ange (working with David), presented their projects through posters displayed across the university. This provided a valuable opportunity to engage directly with international researchers and showcase their work. On Thursday, participants explored Icelandic nature with a field trip to Reykjafoss and its surroundings, followed by a visit to the breeding station. In the evening, a friendly and festive gathering celebrated the best presentations: Kelsey, a Hólar student, won the award in the ecology category, while Joris Philip, a former Hólar student and one of the workshop organisers, was awarded in evolutionary ecology and genetics. The workshop concluded on Friday with a final session focused on “salmonids ecology and evolution in Iceland”, featuring presentations from our professors Bjarni, Skúli, Camille, David, and Stefán, offering insightful perspectives on ongoing research in Iceland. An inspiring and truly international week, marked by knowledge sharing, scientific exchange, and memorable moments of connection — highlighting the strength of collaboration in advancing research and conservation of salmonids. By M. Delbasty |
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