We have run this course since 2013 and every time it is a lot of fun delving deep into the world of stable isotopes. The presentations on the last day are always very impressive and a testimony of how much can be achieved in a week!
by Claudia Keitel, Organiser
The SIBS workshop is a great setting to learn about isotopes — whether you're a first year PhD candidate or a seasoned post-doc. You learn new methods, the subtlety of this complex and elegant discipline, and you make excellent connections with future colleagues and friends.
by Nathan English, Instructor
The workshop significantly enhanced my understanding of how isotope techniques can address complex scientific questions. It highlighted their versatility across disciplines, from ecosystem processes to biogeochemical cycles. The program was well organized, and the facilitators’ expertise made complex concepts accessible and applicable. This experience broadened my methodological perspective and strengthened my ability to integrate isotopes into research. I highly recommend the SIBS workshop to researchers aiming to advance their scientific approaches.
by Ephrem Ngendahimana, Attendee — SIBS 2026 Camden
Chasing the Storm
During SIBS 2020, a surprise hailstorm hit Canberra with golf ball–sized hail. Instead of running for cover, we grabbed our vials! Soon we were sampling hailstones to analyse how isotope ratios vary from surface to core — pure scientific curiosity in action!
Delta Team
In this photo from the 2020 SIBS workshop in Canberra, students and mentors teamed up to form the iconic delta symbol – the classic mark of isotopic ratios. A perfect snapshot of the creativity and camaraderie that define SIBS!