What makes YAS different?
The Young Algaeneers Symposium is made by and for young scientists and entrepreneurs working in both microalgae and seaweed sectors. Driven by an innovative spirit, YAS provides unique approaches to the conference format, offering opportunities to kick-start your career or collaborate with your peers in new and creative ways, while also giving you the chance to interact with key players in the algae industry and academia.
Is YAS for you?
If you're a Master's student, PhD candidate, Post-Doc, or a young professional/entrepreneur within your first 5 years in the algae world, join us to share and shape the future of the growing algae network!
Considering attending YAS?
- Network and discuss your research with fellow researchers and key players in both academia and the algae industry
- Listen to expert talks and roundtable discussions
- Share your own research during a presentation in our Young Algaeneer Talks sessions
- Have a business idea? Pitch it during our Innovation competition and get expert-feedback and win prices!
- Get an inside look at local algae companies with an exclusive tour
- Get your creative juices flowing during our workshop and working group sessions
- Make those long-lasting connections during our YAS-dinner and touristic visit
- YAS is participant-driven: Have your say in shaping the programme and the next YAS location
- Coming from outside Europe? Win an Oversea-Scholarship!
- Be inspired by algae-artwork
- Stay informed on current trends and future challenges in algal research.
YAS in Wageningen, Netherlands
For its 10th anniversary, YAS goes back to its roots!
From May 26 to 29 2026, immerse yourself in Wageningen (Netherlands), where the first edition of YAS was held back in 2012. Here, Algaeneers from across Europe and beyond will gather to exchange knowledge and explore new frontiers in Algae research. Wageningen is widely recognized as one of the leading centers for Algae science, with Wageningen University & Research (WUR) offering excellent research facilities and a vibrant community dedicated to algal innovation. Surrounded by major laboratories, research institutes, and organizations active in the field, Wageningen provides an ideal setting to learn, connect, and grow. The city’s strong culture of collaboration, where academia, industry, and research networks naturally intersect, creates valuable opportunities for young researchers seeking meaningful interactions and new professional experiences.
Our Team
Elisa Werner
YAS Chair
Sheyma Khemiri
YAS Vice Chair
Oscar Elizondo Sada
YAS Sponsors and Local Team Lead
Anna Luque
YAS Program
Ben Schwedhelm
YAS Social Media and Innovation Competition
Gloria Sciuto
YAS Communication and Registrations
Testimonials
I attended YAS 2024, and the only question I was left with is: 'Why... read more...
I attended YAS 2024, and the only question I was left with is: 'Why hadn’t I done this before?!' It was truly inspiring to connect with fellow young researchers from across Europe and beyond, all passionate about the algae sector. The organisation struck a perfect balance between professionalism and informality, making it an excellent symposium for networking and building friendships.
Félix Cicéron, PhD, University of Exeter
At Yas we have the opportunity to do a mix between academia and business - getting to know new products and services... read more...
At Yas we have the opportunity to do a mix between academia and business - getting to know new products and services with algae - a unique networking experience! Boost your career and relationships on YAS.
Isabel Portugal, PhD, Devolverde
Attending the Young Algaeneers Symposium in Vannes 2024 was a transformative experience. I was fascinated to be with... read more...
Attending the Young Algaeneers Symposium in Vannes 2024 was a transformative experience. I was fascinated to be with passionate young scientists and students from different algae sectors and interests, providing a great medium to network and collaborate with future leaders and academic perspectives. I believe YAS truly empowers the next generation of Algaeneers, fostering innovation and strengthening in our relatively small community. I highly recommend YAS to any young professional looking to advance their career in the algae industry in academia or private sector.
Berat Haznedaroğlu, Professor, Boğaziçi University
I have already participated in YAS as a speaker and mentor. It was a great pleasure to share the experience of our... read more...
I have already participated in YAS as a speaker and mentor. It was a great pleasure to share the experience of our research group in using microalgae as a food ingredient with such enthusiastic young people from different parts of the world. Through this experience, I am confident that the future of the microalgae value chain is in good hands with the Young Algaeneers. YAS is an inspiring event!
