Acoustics 2026 - Why attend?

By Martin Lester, Chair of the Institute of Acoustics’ annual conference

Over the two days of Acoustics 2026, taking place 14-15 September 2026 at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Peterborough, there will be the keynote Rayleigh Medal Lecture by Prof. Stuart Bolton, presentations covering topics that dovetail with the Institute of Acoustics’ Specialist Interest Groups (see the link to the final programme below), exhibition areas, and the conference dinner.

View the latest version of the full programme 

Here are some key benefits if you're considering attending Acoustics 2026

• Stay at the forefront of acoustics — hear current research, practical developments and emerging thinking from specialists working across the profession.
• A genuinely broad acoustics programme — sessions span building acoustics, environmental sound, musical acoustics, underwater acoustics, electroacoustics, measurement and instrumentation, noise and vibration engineering, speech and hearing, policy and health, and regulation and standards. 
• Learn about the issues shaping the profession now — including AI in environmental noise assessment, sustainable building design, noise and health, sound cameras, machine learning, planning policy, measurement techniques and emerging technologies. 
• Hear from leading figures in acoustics — including the 2026 Rayleigh Medal Keynote Lecture from Professor John Stuart Bolton, alongside technical presentations and posters from researchers and practitioners. 
• Network across the acoustics community — the conference brings together consultants, researchers, manufacturers, academics, students, early-career professionals and other specialists, creating opportunities to exchange ideas and make new professional connections.
• Discover new technology and solutions — the exhibition is deliberately integrated into the conference, with refreshment breaks taking place within the exhibition areas, giving delegates direct access to suppliers, equipment, technologies and specialist services. 
• Build relationships beyond the technical sessions — networking continues through the conference dinner, drinks reception and Sunday Early Careers/Eastern Branch social, making the event as much about professional connections as technical knowledge. 
• Particularly valuable for early-career acousticians — dedicated early-career rates and the social programme make the conference an opportunity to meet experienced professionals, potential employers and peers from across the sector.  

To find out more and register, please go to: https://www.ioa.org.uk/events/ioa-acoustics-2026