The Survivor's Guide to Stable Isotope Ecology
22nd – 29th March 2026
Stable isotopes are a powerful and ubiquitous tool in modern ecology. When used correctly, they can unlock the mysteries of food-webs, species interactions, ecophysiology, and migration patterns across the globe. However, incorrect use can result in expensively compiled, useless datasets. This course will give you the skills to maximise the benefit of the use of stable isotopes in your current or future research, and our great team of lecturers from all over the world will come together to unlock the secrets of stable isotopes for you.
Course Description
The course will be held on the scenic island of Ortigia, the historic centre of Siracusa in Sicily, Italy. Course instructors include leading experts in the application of stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, oxygen and sulphur to marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecology, in addition to expertise in the growing field of compound specific stable isotope analysis and the analysis of stable isotope data.
Mornings will be dedicated to field-activities, practical experience and data analysis, with lectures and seminars in the afternoons, combining to provide the students with a thorough understanding of the use of stable isotopes in ecology through hands-on experience.
Participants will have time to consult with the course tutors on their own data-sets and projects – and a little time to explore the beautiful island of Ortigia, the historic center of Siracusa, and savour the Mediterranean setting and the local specialties.
APPLICATION AND DEADLINES 2026
- Complete the on-line application form
- Send a letter of support from your academic supervisor
- Send a short letter of intention detailing your research interests and experience and how you intend to apply stable isotopes to your current or future project to info@exedramc.com.
- Early Bird registration before 15th December 2025 discounted fee –€1575
- Regular registration before 15th February 2026 – €1700
- Late registration after 15th February 2026 – €1850
- All fees must be paid by March 5th 2026
What is the target audience?
The course is tailored to postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers with some or no previous experience.
Course Instructors
To be confirmed
Prof. Brian Hayden, Atomic Ecology, University of New Brunswick
Prof. Chris Harrod, University of Glasgow, UK http://harrodlab.net/
Dr. Tamsin O’Connell, University of Cambridge, UK https://www.arch.cam.ac.uk/directory/tco21
Dr Clive Trueman, Associate Professor in Marine Ecology, University of Southampton, UK
Dr. Sarah Magozzi, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn – Fano Marine Centre, Italy
Dr. Jose Canseco, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, Spain
What is included in the course fee
- tuition fees
- accommodation in shared rooms 22nd – 29th March 2026
- welcome dinner
- farewell dinner
- coffee breaks and light refreshments
- course materials
- certificate of attendance
- Exedra 24 hour assistance
For more information contact info@exedramc.com