Marine Meiofauna Diversity – field course
Exploring microscopic animals that shape marine ecosystems, June 8-18, 2026 at Tjärnö Marine Laboratory on the Swedish west coast.
This course aims to give students a solid background in the systematics, taxonomy, diversity and ecology of marine meiofauna. The course will be given in conjunction with a workshop gathering an international group of 12 meiofauna researchers. The course will provide an excellent learning environment and discussion forum for advanced students of marine invertebrate taxonomy and systematics.
The Meio2 course will introduce students to the study of marine meiofauna. Fieldwork includes ship-based collection using a variety of equipment as well as littoral sampling. Laboratory exercises include extraction, isolation and identification of various meiofauna groups. Specialists will give lectures on meiofauna diversity and systematics, metabarcoding of meiofauna and other topics. Students will complete a small project during the course that will serve as the basis for the examination.
Priority target group: PhD students, master students, postdocs, researchers. Relevant background in biology is requested. Priority will be given to students working with or intending to work with aspects of meiofauna biology.
Working language: English
Course credits: content corresponds to 4 ECTS
Fee: Admission to the course includes accommodation (food and lodging) at Tjärnö from 8-18 June. These costs are covered by SLU Artdatabanken. Travel costs are not covered. There is no course fee.
Application: Open until Feb 1 2026
Questions? Contact ansokan.artprojekt@slu.se
Organizing bodies: SLU Swedish Species Information Centre and The Swedish Museum of Natural History.