Since the publication of the first paper proposing the concept of standardized DNA barcoding in 2003, this field of science has grown from a small community of a few individuals to a global network of researchers and innovators. This conference is the sixth in a series of biannual international scientific meetings, bringing together hundreds of scientists from an increasingly widening range of fields.

What is DNA barcoding?

The concept of identifying a specimen through genetic sequencing is not a new one, but the approach used by DNA barcoding is what makes the process both unique and useful. This technique allows for rapid and accurate identification of specimens to the species level, resulting in a wide variety of practical applications. More information about the basics of DNA barcoding – and links to additional resources – can be found here.

The rise of DNA barcoding as a field of study

Initially dismissed as a mere inventory project, DNA barcoding has since become the largest research program in biodiversity science. This conference is the latest in a series of international meetings, reflecting the global scope of the research and building upon the earlier meetings and collaborations that made DNA barcoding what it is today. More information about the history of DNA barcoding can be found here.

The International Barcode of Life Project (iBOL)

Launched in 2010, the iBOL Project represents the largest global biodiversity research project ever undertaken. Phase one of the iBOL Project is slated to end in 2015, blah blah blah.