Over the past few decades, sol-gel science and technology has evolved from its origins within “traditional” materials science to become a remarkably inter- and multi-disciplinary field that seamlessly blends chemistry, physics, biology, materials science and nanotechnology, with applications across a correspondingly broad palette of technological domains. Much of the growth and ongoing success of the sol-gel science and technology community can be attributed to the biennial International Sol-Gel Conferences which, beginning in 1981, have provided a vibrant forum for stimulating technical discussions, mentorship and collaborations. The most recent conference, which was held in Berlin, continued a four-decade tradition of blending a compelling overview of the ongoing evolution of sol-gel science and technology with the rich history and cultural diversity of the host city. We will meet again to communicate, celebrate and collaborate in September 2026 in Lisbon, the 2nd time that our conference will have been hosted in Portugal.
The ISGS is now seeking applications from groups interesting in hosting the 24th International Sol-Gel Conference in 2028. Full details regarding the application process and the criteria against which applications will be assessed will soon be available on the ISGS website. The Selection Criteria will include:
- The content of proposed program and the scientific/technical strengths of the applicants in the field of sol-gel science and technology,
- Opportunities for students and Early-Career Researchers to participate in the conference, including student stipends and sponsorships to offset the registration costs,
- Conference location and facilities (on-site and on-line),
- The proposed venue, accommodation options, and the social and cultural program,
- The proposed registration fees for students, Early-Career Researchers and the wider sol-gel community,
- The extent to which hosting the conference will enhance the growth of sol-gel science and technology within the host country.
Applications will be assessed by a committee including senior sol-gel practitioners from Academia and Industry and members of the ISGS Board. The ISGS will negotiate a contract with the selected host, which will cover all aspects of the organisation and hosting of the Conference. Preference will be given to competitive bids from diverse Local Organising Committees (LOC) in new locations (a geographical spread based on previous locations is desired) and those chaired by women, to further the ISGS’ aspirations of enhancing the participation of women in senior roles in sol-gel science and technology. Local Organising Commit-tees involving members from multiple countries would also be considered favourably. In the event of significant disruptions within the International Community (such as pandemics), the Local Organising Committee and ISGS Board may agree to postpone the event or to organize it in an on-line format (or as a hybrid mixed on-site and on-line event).
The closing date for applications is Friday 6 February 2026, and applicants will be advised of the outcome of the selection process by Friday 1 May 2026. For any additional information, please contact either Professor Beatriz Julián López (ISGS President) or any of the current ISGS Board Members who have previously served as Chairs of the International Sol-Gel Conferences (Professors John Bartlett, Stéphane Parola and Nicola Pinna).
