The 6th International Barcode of Life Conference was hosted by the University of Guelph. Most of the conference activities occurred on campus in facilities located in close proximity to one another and to hotels and campus accommodations.
Rozanski Hall
The primary home for the scientific program was Rozanski Hall. This facility houses modern lecture theatres ranging in size from 30 to 600 seats, all with state-of-the-art infrastructure. The morning plenary sessions and afternoon parallel sessions were held in Rozanski Hall, facilitating easy movement between presentation rooms. The large foyer provided an excellent venue for morning and afternoon breaks.
Summerlee Science Complex
The atrium of the Summerlee Science Complex provided a home for the display of posters throughout the conference and an associated reception. The Science Complex, the largest integrated science teaching and research facility in North America, provides modern research and teaching laboratories. The large atrium space is popular with students and staff for relaxation or study. The atrium served as prime space for displaying posters and for networking with colleagues.
Creelman Hall
Creelman Hall is a dining hall just a short walk from the scientific venues. Breakfast and lunch were served here for all delegates each day of the main conference (August 18-21). The BBQ Dinner on Tuesday evening (August 18) was hosted at Creelman. Because many meals were served in this Hall, opportunities were excellent for networking.
River Run Centre
The River Run Centre in downtown Guelph hosted a Special Plenary Session on the State of Biodiversity on Wednesday evening (August 19). This modern venue serves as the performing arts centre for Guelph. With views overlooking the Speed River, the River Run Centre is located within a short walk of many excellent dining options in Guelph’s downtown core. The special evening session provided a broader perspective on biodiversity and served to link the scientific program of the conference with the wider public.
Cambridge Mill
The Gala Reception was held at the historic and scenic Cambridge Mill on Thursday evening (August 20). As the Mill is located approximately a 20-minute drive from the University, bus transportation was provided for all delegates. With an “Earth to Dining” philosophy, the Cambridge Mill provided fresh selections of local cuisine for our Gala. This indoor/outdoor setting provided a good opportunity for socializing.
War Memorial Hall
War Memorial Hall, an historic building on campus, was built in 1924 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Ontario Agricultural College and to honour students who died in the First World War. Located just a short walk from Rozanski Hall, this venue was used for the Closing Keynote address and for awarding prizes (August 21).
