Liverpool has been selected to host a major global scientific gathering that will bring thousands of international insect researchers to the city’s waterfront.

The Royal Entomological Society (RES), one of the world’s leading insect science organisations, will host the International Congress of Entomology (ICE) in Liverpool in 2033. 

The event will bring the global insect science community together to share latest research and understanding of the tiny creatures that all life on Earth depends on and will help celebrate the RES’s 200th anniversary. 

Held every four years, ICE is the world’s largest international gathering of entomologists, bringing together up to five thousand scientists, researchers and policymakers from fields including biodiversity, agriculture, health, vector-borne disease and climate science. 

The 2033 Congress (XXIX ICE) will be the first time the UK has hosted the event since 1964.

Liverpool was selected following a competitive international bidding process, recognising the city’s scientific strengths, conference infrastructure and strong institutional partnerships. The event will take place at the Liverpool Experience Campus, located next to the iconic Royal Albert Dock and close to the Liver Building, a short walk from Liverpool city centre. 

The International Congress of Entomology (ICE) is overseen by the Council for International Congresses of Entomology, a global body that represents the breadth of insect science and ensures the continuity of the Congress, which has been held since 1910. Liverpool’s successful bid was supported by Liverpool Convention Bureau, part of the Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership, which works with academic and professional partners to attract and deliver major international conferences.

ICE 2033 is expected to offer significant scientific, economic and civic benefits, encourage international collaboration and public engagement in insect science and advance long-term research, education and policy. 

Further details about ICE 2033, including dates and programme development, will be announced on the RES website. Sign up to the RES newsletter for early updates and regular news.

Bringing the World’s Biggest Insect Minds Together on the Waterfront

Simon Ward, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Entomological Society, said: 

“Hosting the International Congress of Entomology in our bicentenary year is an extraordinary honour for the Royal Entomological Society. 

“ICE 2033 will bring together the global entomology community at a time when insect science is vital for food security, biodiversity, and both human and animal health. 

“Liverpool will provide the collaborative environment essential to deliver a world-class congress and we look forward to welcoming international delegates and colleagues to the UK.”

Professor Angharad Gatehouse, Secretary General of the Council for International Congresses of Entomology said: 

“The Council is delighted to confirm Liverpool and the Royal Entomological Society as hosts of ICE 2033. 

“The Royal Entomological Society’s 200th anniversary provides a powerful opportunity to celebrate the past, present and future of entomology on a global platform.”

Securing a Massive Economic Boost for Local Tourism and Science Hubs

Natalie Wyatt, Managing Director of the Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership, said: 

“Liverpool has a strong track record of delivering major scientific events and regularly hosts large international meetings, including Ento24, the Royal Entomological Society’s flagship conference. 

“Liverpool city region’s venues and research institutes offer the scale, expertise and flexibility required to host a congress of ICE’s size and international reach. 

“We look forward to welcoming delegates to Liverpool in 2033.”

Adrian Evans, Director of Sales – Business Events at Liverpool Experience Campus said: 

“Our city-centre waterfront campus offers a seamless, world-class visitor experience, making Liverpool Experience Campus the ideal host for the International Congress of Entomology 2033. 

“Our flexible facilities, extensive experience in delivering major international congresses, and continued focus on sustainability alongside our commitment to reach net zero by 2030, provide the perfect environment for a successful, sustainable, and truly memorable International Congress of Entomology. 

“We look forward to welcoming ICE 2033 and helping to deliver an event impact and legacy worthy of RES’s 200th Anniversary.”

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