WELCOME MESSAGE

Dear Colleague,
Molecular approaches continue to shape the future of biological sciences, offering transformative solutions across all disciplines of plant protection. Over the past two decades, the integration of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, functional analyses, gene editing, and RNAi technologies has revolutionized research in entomology, plant pathology, and weed science. These tools have paved the way for innovative diagnostics, targeted pest control, and sustainable crop protection strategies.

The 1st International Molecular Plant Protection Congress (IMPPC2019), held in Adana, brought together 42 world-renowned keynote speakers and 14 agricultural and biotechnology companies, making a lasting impression on the global community. This was followed by IMPPC2023 in Bursa, which hosted 87 keynote speakers and over 40 companies, and featured a historic opening lecture by Prof. Craig C. Mello, awarded the 2006 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discovery of RNA interference (RNAi)—a breakthrough that has transformed modern molecular biology and pest control technologies.

Now, building on this growing legacy, the 3rd International Molecular Plant Protection Congress (IMPPC2026) will be held on May 17–21, 2026, at the Kremlin Palace in Antalya, Türkiye—an iconic Mediterranean venue celebrated for its stunning coastline, cultural vibrancy, and exceptional hospitality. The congress is co-organized by Ankara University and three distinguished institutions under the Republic of Türkiye, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry: the General Directorate of Agricultural Research and Policies, the General Directorate of Food and Control, and the Department of Training and Publication.

This year’s program will gather over 90 keynote speakers from across the globe, including three distinguished Nobel Laureates. The Opening Lecture will be delivered by Prof. Brian Kobilka (2012 Nobel Prize in Chemistry) for his groundbreaking research on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), while Prof. Martin Chalfie Chalfie (2008 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, for GFP) and Prof. Craig C. Mello Mello (2006 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, for RNAi) will each contribute unique perspectives on discoveries that shaped modern biology.

The scientific program will feature cutting-edge symposia and invited talks spanning topics such as dsRNA- and peptide-based biopesticides, microbial and symbiont-based technologies, enzyme platforms, and precision diagnostics. A returning highlight of the congress is Innovation Street, which this year will not only showcase start-ups and spin-offs but also feature a globally recognized entrepreneurial success story—an inspiring journey that has reshaped the biocontrol industry worldwide.

In light of recent milestones, including the approval of the first sprayable dsRNA insecticide in the United States, IMPPC2026 will also host a high-level Regulatory Roundtable. This session will bring together international regulators, industry leaders, and academic experts to discuss evolving frameworks, risk assessment, and global perspectives on RNAi- and peptide-based biopesticides.

Guided by our motto “One Wor(l)d: Sustainability” IMPPC2026 will continue to serve as a strategic platform for advancing dialogue, fostering innovation, and shaping policy.

We would be delighted to welcome you to Antalya and share with you an inspiring, forward-looking congress experience!

Warm regards,