First-Ever eLTER Science Conference to Bring the Community Together in Tampere, Finland
22 June 2025
For the first time in eLTER’s history, our growing European community will gather in one place—Tampere, Finland, from June 23–27, 2025—for the inaugural eLTER Science Conference. This long-awaited moment will bring together nearly 350 researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders for an interdisciplinary exchange at Tampere Talo, the largest congress venue in the Nordic countries.
The conference motto, “Towards a Whole-System Approach for Ecosystem Science” is a reflection of what unites us: the recognition that environmental challenges must be tackled across disciplines, across spheres, and in close dialogue with society. This gathering marks a significant milestone in the evolution of eLTER as a European Research Infrastructure and a vibrant scientific community.
A Unique eLTER Community Experience
This first conference offers far more than just lectures. It’s a space designed to strengthen connections, support new voices, and celebrate our collective progress.
- 25 prominent keynote speakers—each a leader in systems-based environmental research—will present their latest findings and approaches.
- A variety of participatory workshops will run throughout the week, inviting attendees to engage in hands-on learning and dialogue. Workshop registration is required and takes place through the eLTERConference App (see below for instructions).
- A special "Early Career and Friends" workshop will provide an open, informal space for early-career researchers to build connections and explore cross-disciplinary opportunities.
- Field excursions to nearby long-term research sites will offer participants a chance to see eLTER’s whole-system approach in action—across spheres—demonstrating how integrated measurements and observations inform our science.
- A rich social programme will accompany the academic content, making room for spontaneous conversation, networking, and relaxation. Throughout the whole conference, in the winter garden of the venue Tampere Talo, the photo exhibition ‘eLTER InSites’ will showcase the research conducted at eLTER Sites and eLTSER Platforms.
The conference is also designed as a safe and inclusive space, where scientists from all disciplines, along with policymakers, business representatives, and stakeholders, can come together to reflect on their roles and responsibilities in addressing today’s environmental crises.
Meet the eLTER Science Conference 2025 Scientific Committee and Organisers!
Tampere Talo (Tampere Hall), Photo by Laura Vanzo
During the eLTER Science Conference, you can also enjoy one of the world's most popular immersive art experiences - The Van Gogh Alive summer exhibition - to be seen at Tampere Hall.
View the Full Programme
Overall, the scientific programme includes 22 sessions, 14 workshops, 140+ oral presentations, 120+ posters.
Explore the full conference agenda, keynote abstracts, and session details here:
👉 https://www.elter-ri.eu/science-conference/programme
The eLTER Science Conference Proceedings with all abstracts is available here.
Explore Tampere and Get Practical Tips
Tampere, known for its lakeside setting and lively cultural life, offers much to explore. We encourage participants to check the “Info” section in the eLTERConference App for practical tips.
To access the app:
📲 Download the eLTERConference App
📧 Check your inbox for a personal invitation email from
Follow the instructions to log in and access the program, workshop registration, maps, and local recommendations.
Make sure to reserve your spot for the workshops via the app!
Tampere is Finland's most popular lakeside-city
Follow eLTER on Bluesky for live updates during the conference!
Read the interview with eLTER Science Conference organising committee co-chair Prof. Jaana Bäck: The eLTER community is a Key Actor in Environmental Science
