The sixth International Conference on Bioscience and Biotechnology (ICBB-2026) marks a significant milestone as we celebrate 10 years of this prestigious conference series. Since its inception in 2016, ICBB has grown into a platform of international resonance, bringing together researchers, entrepreneurs, educators, and stakeholders from around the world to discuss and collaborate on advancements in bioscience and biotechnology. The 2026 edition of ICBB will be hosted in the scenic city of Pokhara, Nepal, from February 5 to 8, 2026, under the theme “Reflecting on Ten Years of Growth”. Its tagline, ‘a platform to connect beautiful minds,’ perfectly encapsulates the spirit of collaboration and exploration that defines ICBB.
ICBB has been instrumental in fostering a collaborative research ecosystem in Nepal, creating a bridge between local researchers and international experts. Over the years, it has served as a catalyst for collaboration and knowledge exchange, addressing pressing scientific and societal challenges. With over 1,000 participants from 21 countries across its five editions, ICBB has consistently grown in scale and impact:
- ICBB 2016 (Kathmandu): 226 participants from 8 countries, featuring 10 international speakers, 25 oral presentations, and 19 posters.
- ICBB 2018 (Dhulikhel): 150 participants from 5 countries, with 12 international speakers, 24 oral presentations, and 38 posters.
- ICBB 2020 (Pokhara): 130 participants from 12 countries, featuring 20 international speakers, 28 oral presentations, and 28 posters.
- ICBB 2022 (Sauraha): A hybrid conference with 126 participants from 10 countries, 13 international speakers, 34 oral presentations, and 27 posters.
- ICBB 2024 (Godawari): 240 participants from 10 countries, featuring 20 international speakers, 36 oral presentations, and 20 posters.
Each edition has highlighted diverse themes, ranging from natural products, food microbiology, translational biomedicine to planetary health, while enriching academic discussions and fostering collaboration to address local and global challenges.
The 2026 conference continues this legacy by introducing new initiatives like the endowment seminar, aimed at supporting the establishment of a sustainable endowment fund for the Research Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology (RIBB). This initiative underscores the conference’s commitment to advancing research capacity in Nepal while ensuring the long-term sustainability of its efforts.
In keeping with the past aspirations, ICBB-2026 brings us back to Pokhara, a city known as the “Gateway to the Himalayas”. This will be the second time the conference is being held in Pokhara, following the successful 2020 edition. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including the serene Fewa Lake and panoramic mountain views, Pokhara provides an inspiring backdrop for scientific discourse. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Pokhara is emerging as a hub for research and innovation, with institutions like the Gandaki Province Academy of Science and Technology (GPAST), Pokhara University Research Center (PURC) and local industries contributing to the region’s growing prominence in bioscience and biotechnology. Hosting ICBB-2026 in Pokhara not only celebrates this growth but also strengthens collaborations with these institutions and industries, furthering the impact of the conference.
The event will host a series of thematic sessions designed to engage various stakeholders who are vital to the development of the research ecosystem and broader community. These sessions will explore topics such as collaboration, higher education, bringing brains back, research ecosystem, entrepreneurship, and public engagement, fostering discussions that bridge academia, industry, and community engagement. By bringing together researchers, entrepreneurs, educators, and policymakers, the conference aims to create synergies that drive innovation and address societal needs.
The conference also places a strong emphasis on community involvement and awareness. Building on one of the highlights of ICBB 2024, the 2026 conference will continue this legacy of including secondary level student participation through the Engage Nepal with Science (ENwS) program. During the 2024 Godawari conference, partner schools were invited to present handmade posters showcasing their efforts in addressing climate change. This initiative provided valuable exposure for students, allowing them to engage with the scientific community, while also giving scientists and professionals a unique opportunity to connect with grassroot-level contributors. Alongside this, scientific poster sessions will provide a platform for participants to engage with ongoing research, contributing to the overall knowledge-sharing aspect of the conference.
Additionally, ICBB-2026 will also feature a Photo Gallery Session (ICBB Classics), which will showcase the journey of the conference series over the past decade. This session will offer participants an opportunity to reflect on ICBB’s achievements and its impact in various cities across Nepal. Complementing this will be the KORA Cycling Event, a 15-kilometer ride around Fewa Lake, organized as an awareness program to promote community engagement and environmental consciousness. Together, these activities reflect ICBB’s broader goal of not just advancing scientific knowledge but also empowering communities, fostering long-term sustainability, and inspiring future generations of researchers.
As we celebrate 10 years of ICBB, the 2026 edition promises to be a landmark event, embodying the conference’s core values of collaboration, exploration, and community engagement. With its rich history, stunning venue, and forward-looking agenda, ICBB-2026 will undoubtedly continue to contribute to shaping the future of bioscience and biotechnology in Nepal and beyond.
Authors are invited to submit abstracts on original, unpublished research in the scientific tracks listed here. We encourage work that introduces new ideas and conceptualizations, research and understandings to the field, as well as analysis of both success and failure.
Please read the Conference Policy & Guidelines carefully before submitting your abstract. Abstracts can only be submitted online by the appropriate deadlines.
- Register now for the ICBB-2026 [Registration not yet open; date to be announced.]
- If you are planning for an oral/paper presentation, start submitting abstracts. [Submission of abstract not yet open; date to be announced.]
