In this photo from the 2020 SIBS workshop in Canberra, students and mentors teamed up to form the iconic delta symbol – the classic mark of isotopic ratios. A perfect snapshot of the creativity and camaraderie that define SIBS!
This workshop significantly enhanced my understanding of stable isotopes and provided valuable opportunities to engage with experts and peers working across diverse research areas. I was grateful to meet knowledgeable and supportive presenters. The program also deepened my understanding of how my samples were analysed and how to interpret the results. The notes and insights I gained will be useful for my future research, wherever it may lead. I highly recommend this workshop to anyone interested in SIs.
by Melanesia Boseren, Attendee — SIBS 2026 Camden
I had an excellent time at SIBS 2026. I entered the workshop as an absolute beginner, and came out with a comprehensive overview of stable isotope concepts and their diverse applications (and a slighly sore brain). The opportunity to learn amongst such a passionate group of people was invaluable. I would absolutely recommend this workshop to anyone wanting to learn more about stable isotopes!
by Laura Bailey, Attendee — SIBS 2026 Camden
Chasing the Storm
During SIBS 2020, a surprise hailstorm hit Canberra with golf ball–sized hail. Instead of running for cover, we grabbed our vials! Soon we were sampling hailstones to analyse how isotope ratios vary from surface to core — pure scientific curiosity in action!
I was new stable isotope research before attending SIBS. Despite being new to this field, I found myself leaving the workshop with both direction and understanding that I didn't think possible in just a week. The presenters were all incredibly knowledgable and from a broad range of disciplines. I talked with plant and soil researchers about how their work might be applicable to my research in entomology, which was a unique opportunity for cross discipline discussion. It was the perfect atmosphere to learn, chat and make friends. I would reccomend it to any researcher interested in isotopes!