June 1 – 4, 2025

Halifax Convention Centre | Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

The 16th International Symposium on Biological and Environmental Reference Materials will be hosted by the National Research Council of Canada in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Halifax is a renowned university city with active research and technology sectors, but is also historic and walkable with numerous hotels and restaurants in the downtown core.

We are pleased to announce that two related satellite meetings will be held in conjunction with BERM at the end of the week:

qNMR Summit

June 4 – 6

The 9th International Conference on quantitative NMR will be held June 4 – 6, 2025 in Halifax.

LEARN MORE

ISO/ TC 334

June 5 – 6

Members of ISO Technical Committee on Reference Materials will convene June 5 – 6, 2025 in Halifax.

LEARN MORE

SYMPOSIUM VENUE

Halifax Convention Centre

1650 Argyle St, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Located in the heart of Halifax, the Halifax Convention Centre (HCC) is the perfect venue for BERM 16. The HCC is known for attracting and hosting the best events in the region and prides itself in its commitment to event excellence. This facility is completely wheelchair accessible and offers select hearing assist systems, tactile Braille signage, and welcomes all certified guide, service, and companion animals.

This state-of-the-art, modern building opened its doors in December of 2017 and is just steps away from vibrant Halifax life. Located at 1650 Argyle Street, you will find the best local dining, and fantastic arts and culture, all within an easy stroll from the doorstep.

Halifax

Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada is an ideal location for BERM 16. It is a modern port city with a population of approximately 450,000 people that is filled with historic sites, museums and galleries, pubs and fine restaurants, lively night life, shopping, outdoor adventures and summer festivals.

Steeped in history and culture, life in Halifax revolves around the sea. But there’s so much more! From bustling city streets, leisurely strolls through the Public Gardens, sailing tours of Halifax Harbour, exploring the Pier 21 or National Historic Sites – there are many things to do in Halifax.

Not only is Halifax, Nova Scotia the quintessential Maritime destination—where you can tour a natural harbour via a Halifax tall ship or relax on the waterfront, soaking up sea air—it’s also the cultural hub of Atlantic Canada. Come to Halifax for an evening walk along our breathtaking harbourfront; discover shopping, entertainment, and restaurants all within walking distance from the downtown core; and get a dose of Maritime history at attractions like the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel. Real people, rich culture and music, historic architecture, and natural maritime beauty—these things leave visitors to Halifax with a lasting desire to return.

For more information on the city of Halifax please visit: Discover Halifax.

The Greater Halifax Visitor Guide has great ideas for planning your visit to Halifax.

Getting around town: Ferry and Bridge information.

Nova Scotia

The province of Nova Scotia is an internationally recognized tourist destination known for rugged coastlines, national parks, beautiful beaches and historic locations including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Old Town Lunenburg and the Joggins Fossil Cliffs. Delegates are encouraged to experience the natural beauty and thriving culture throughout the province by visiting famous tourism destinations such as the idyllic fishing village of Peggy’s Cove or the beautiful highlands of Cape Breton Island.

Visitors to Nova Scotia enjoy the scenic beauty, rich heritage and vibrant culture. Nova Scotia’s blend of dramatic seas, scenic lands, Celtic music and friendly people shape a maritime culture like no other. Witness the world’s highest tide ebb out of the Minas Basin and beachcomb the ocean floor for treasures. Drive, bike or hike the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Canada’s great ocean highway. Stop by the town of Lunenburg to see the home of the world-famous Bluenose II. From the gracious Victorian architecture, to the excitement and fun found around every corner, our cities and towns are going to surprise and delight you. There is no shortage of ways to discover our natural beauty and enjoy our renowned hospitality and charm.

For more information on Nova Scotia please visit: Nova Scotia Tourism.

OFFICIAL SYMPOSIUM HOTELS

The Sutton Place Hotel Halifax

700 Grafton Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2C4 | 1-902-932-7548 or 1-888-378-8866

We are delighted to have Sutton Place as our official BERM 16 hotel offering quick, covered access to the adjacent Halifax Convention Centre. The rooms feature spa-inspired bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views of downtown, waterfront, harbour, and historic Citadel Hill. State-of-the-art amenities include a modern and upscale fitness centre and open-air patio oasis with a hot tub and cozy fire pits with soft, inviting seating.

Preferred room rate for Symposium delegates starting at:

$299

per night + applicable taxes

BOOK YOUR ROOM NOW

You may also reserve your accommodation now by calling the hotel reservation line: 1-902-932-7548 or 1-888-378-8866 and referencing that you are attending the Symposium and use the code IRCC2025 . Rooms are assigned on a first-come first-served basis—based on availability. Contact the hotel soon to book your room. Rooms are available until Friday, 2 May, 2025 or until rooms in our limited block sell-out.

The Prince George Hotel

1725 Market Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3N9 | 1-902-425-1986 or 1-800-565-1567

The Prince George hotel offers world-class four diamond service in the heart of downtown Halifax. Unparalleled hotel excellence that will please even the most discerning of travellers and located only steps from the Halifax Convention Centre. The hotel features include a fine dining restaurant, fitness facilities, business centre and more.

Preferred room rate for Symposium delegates starting at:

$289

per night + applicable taxes

BOOK YOUR ROOM NOW

You may also reserve your accommodation now by calling the hotel reservation line: 1-902-425-1986 or 1-800-565-1567 and referencing that you are attending the Symposium and use the code BERM16 . Rooms are assigned on a first-come first-served basis—based on availability. Contact the hotel soon to book your room. Rooms are available until Friday, 2 May, 2025 or until rooms in our limited block sell-out.

By Air

If you’re flying into Halifax, you’ll arrive at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport (airport code YHZ), located about 30 minutes from downtown Halifax. The airport is regularly serviced by ten airlines, with additional seasonal offerings, bringing travellers in from a wide array of domestic and international destinations.

There are various car rental options located right at the airport—helping you get on the road to downtown—or airport car services are available curbside in the arrivals area. A one-way trip to Halifax city centre is about $64 by taxi or limousine. Shared ride service (Uber) is also be available.

For more details visit Getting to and from the Halifax Airport.

Sunday | June 1

Evening

BERM 16 Welcome Reception