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ATU Professor to lead global conversation on Aquatic Invasive Species at major international conference in Belfast
Professor Frances Lucy, based at Atlantic Technological University (ATU), has been appointed Honorary Chair of the 24th International Conference on Aquatic Invasive Species (ICAIS 2026), which will bring together approximately 350 delegates from 32 countries at Queen's University Belfast from 23 to 27 August.
The conference is regarded as the foremost international forum dedicated to addressing the environmental, economic and social impacts of aquatic invasive species worldwide.
Professor Lucy, who also serves as President of INVASIVESNET, the International Association for Open Knowledge on Invasive Species, will deliver a keynote plenary presentation examining how the ICAIS conference series has documented and influenced the development of aquatic invasive species research and management over the past two decades.
The Belfast gathering marks a significant return to the island of Ireland, with the conference having previously been hosted here in 2004, when it was organised by her as Technical Chair. This year’s event adopts the theme “Transcending Boundaries”, reflecting the increasingly international and interdisciplinary effort required to tackle invasive species that threaten freshwater, marine and estuarine ecosystems.
Aquatic invasive species are among the most pressing environmental challenges facing ecosystems across the globe. Introduced accidentally or deliberately beyond their native ranges, these species can outcompete native wildlife, alter habitats, disrupt food webs and impose substantial costs on fisheries, water management and biodiversity conservation efforts.
For Ireland, the issue is particularly relevant. Waterways across the island of Ireland have been affected by invasive species ranging from zebra mussels and Asian clams to invasive aquatic plants, requiring ongoing management and public awareness campaigns on biosecurity.
Professor Lucy has been a prominent voice in invasive species research and policy for many years and has played a key role in advancing international collaboration on prevention, monitoring and management strategies.
As ATU Lead for the EU GREEN European University Alliance, Professor Lucy has also been instrumental in building international partnerships focused on sustainability and environmental resilience.
‘Aquatic invasive species are one of the main threats to biodiversity and impacts are accelerating with climate change. In my role as honorary chair, I will take the opportunity with all our ICAIS delegates to beat the drum on prevention and spread of invasive species by transcending boundaries’
The ICAIS programme features leading researchers, policymakers and practitioners from across the world, addressing topics including invasive species governance, biosecurity, conservation management, policy development and emerging threats linked to climate change.
Beyond its academic significance, the conference carries an important public message. Experts consistently emphasise that prevention remains the most effective and cost-efficient defence against invasive species. Public awareness, responsible recreation on waterways, careful management of equipment and early detection all play critical roles in limiting the introduction and spread of invasive organisms.
More details of the conference can be found here: https://event.fourwaves.com/icais2026/pages
Photo caption: Professor Frances Lucy.
For media enquiries, contact:
Aidan Haughey
Communications Manager
Tel: 086 086 6913
E: aidan.haughey@atu.ie
