Transdisciplinary applications of environmental DNA (eDNA) research (Symposium)
Tracks
Programme
| Wednesday, July 8, 2026 |
| 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM |
| Room C3 |
Details
This symposium, Transdisciplinary Applications of Environmental DNA (eDNA) Research, will highlight how eDNA is evolving from an innovative scientific tool to a cornerstone of applied biodiversity management. Environmental DNA (eDNA) refers to genetic material shed by organisms into their surroundings, such as water, soil, or air, which can be collected and analyzed to detect species without direct observation or capture. Over the past decade, eDNA has rapidly become one of the most transformative tools in conservation science, revolutionizing biodiversity assessment, invasive species detection, and ecosystem monitoring across diverse habitats. The symposium will feature talks spanning a range of environments, including freshwater, marine, and terrestrial systems, as well as the equally diverse collection mediums now being explored (air, water, and soil). By bringing together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, the session will explore both the technological development of eDNA methods and their practical integration into conservation planning, biomonitoring programs, population management, and environmental impact assessments. Emphasizing stakeholder engagement and co-development, the symposium aims to foster dialogue between scientists, industry professionals, and decision-makers to ensure that eDNA tools are robust, accessible, and aligned with real-world conservation needs. Within the overarching ECCB 2026 theme of Effective biodiversity conservation, this symposium directly contributes to the congress’s goals by showcasing how collaborative, cross-disciplinary approaches can translate cutting-edge molecular technologies into actionable strategies that safeguard biodiversity for the long term. Presenters will highlight how and why their research integrated stakeholders, further exploring potential benefits and hurdles.
Speakers and Presentation Titles
Dr. Henrik Cornelisson van de Ven
Scientist
TNO
Airborne eDNA – Curiosity, useful tool, or future game changer?
Dr. Kevin Groen
Leiden University | Cml
Feeding Ecology of Wolves in the Netherlands
Mr. Jelger Herder
Ravon (reptile Amphibian Fish Conservation Netherlands)
Exploring the Potential of eDNA-Metabarcoding as an Alternative to Conventional Fish Monitoring under the WFD
Ms. Kaushar Kagzi
Leiden University
Assessing the impact of plastic pollution on marine communities in the eastern North-Pacific subtropical gyre
Dr. Charlotte Van Driessche
Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO)
Molecular monitoring as a catalyst for freshwater conservation: integrating eDNA signals into European ecological assessments
Organiser
Kathryn Stewart
Associate Professor
Institute Of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University
Krijn Trimbos
Cml/leiden University