International Delegates
IMC21 is coming to Liverpool, UK – returning to Europe for the first time in 12 years, and to the UK for the first time since 1954!
Liverpool is an iconic city, rich in culture and history, and a fantastic destination for delegates travelling from overseas. For those outside the continent, this year’s IMC also presents the perfect opportunity to connect with the European research community.
Getting to Liverpool
By Air - Nearest airports
Liverpool John Lennon Airport features low-cost and charter flights to domestic, european and International destinations. Alternatively, Manchester Airport, just 45 minutes away, brings even more domestic and international destinations within reach.
Liverpool John Lennon Airport features flights to approximately 75 destinations in the UK and across Europe.
A taxi from Liverpool John Lennon Airport to Liverpool City Centre will take approximately 20 minutes, or the express bus service, Route 500, will take approximately 25 minutes, and costing £3.00 (approximately €3.50). Other routes are available, further information can be found on the Mersey Travel website.
Manchester Airport, just 45 minutes' away via the motorway network, has an even more extensive network of flights, with long haul destinations including American and the Far East with direct flights.
Trains are available from Manchester airport directly to Liverpool Lime Street station. The average travel time is 1 hour 24 minutes. For more information and to book train tickets please visit the trainline website.
Visa Requirements
You may need a visa to visit the UK, you can check if you need a visa and find out any other entry requirements on the UK Government website.
If you require a visa letter to assist with an application to attend IMC21, please register first and then contact Jessica Cole.
The Venue - ACC Liverpool
IMC21 is being held at ACC Liverpool, a purpose-built arena and convention centre in the heart of Liverpool on the King's Dock.
ACC Liverpool has great transport links as well as being a short distance from a large number of hotels, restaurants, shops and bars. The full address is: King's Dock, Port of Liverpool, Kings Dock St, Liverpool L3 4FP, UK.
Liverpool is an incredibly well-connected city, with excellent public transport networks, road networks, and pedestrian access. For more information and to plan your travel arrangements please visit the ACC Liverpool website.
Present your work on a global stage!
Abstract submission is now open for talk and poster presentations. Take a look at the congress symposia before submitting to find which session your research best fits into. The deadline for submissions is Friday 6 March 2026.
Registration
Registration is now open! Our Early Bird Fees are available until Friday 17 July 2026, and student discounts are also available. You can find a full breakdown of registration fees on our registration webpage.
You can choose to attend the whole congress (full registration ticket) which will give you:
- Access to all scientific symposiums, opening / closing ceremonies, exhibition entry and welcome reception
- Lunch and refreshments. These will be available from the exhibition hall
Or you can select a day registration ticket, which gives you:
- Access to all scientific symposiums for one day and exhibition entry
- Lunch and refreshments on the day attending
Alternatively there is a free 'exhibition only' ticket, which gives you:
- Access to the exhibition
- Refreshments, this ticket DOES NOT include lunch
Additions to your booking
You can also choose to book one of our Pre-Congress Workshops (taking place on Sunday 30 August at the University of Liverpool) and the Gala Dinner during the registration process.
- Pre-Congress workshop tickets include access to your chosen workshop and lunch/refreshments.
- Gala dinner includes a three course meal, drinks and entertainment
Bursaries
There are a number of bursaries available to assist you to attend IMC21, they include:
- Congress Bursaries - The Royal Microscopical Society are able to offer a limited number of travel bursaries to those planning to submit an IMC21 Congress abstract. As a limited bursary fund, awards will be made on a first come first served basis. IMC21 bursaries are open to both RMS members and non-members.
- Care and Support Grants - We are pleased to announce that we are piloting a Care and Support Grant scheme for IMC21. These grants are designed to help with the additional caring or childcare costs that are incurred when trying to attend a conference.
- Exhibition Day Visitor Bursaries - Although it is free to attend the IMC21 exhibition, the Royal Microscopical Society understand that funding your travel to events can be difficult. For this reason, the RMS are offering a number of day visitor travel bursaries of up to £50 to help those planning to attend the IMC21 exhibition.
Find out more on the bursaries webpage.
Things to do in Liverpool
From world-class culture and iconic music heritage to vibrant waterfronts, green spaces and stunning coastline, Liverpool City Region offers unforgettable experiences all year round. The following links may help with finding things to do whilst in Liverpool.
