21st International Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ICSMGE 2026)

21st International Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ICSMGE 2026)

Mark your calendars: from 14 – 19 June 2026, Vienna will host the 21st edition of the ICSMGE under the theme “Geotechnical Challenges in a Changing Environment.”

This premier global gathering brings together leaders in geotechnical engineering, academia, industry, and research to explore how our discipline adapts and responds to evolving environmental, societal and technical demands.

Why Vienna: Where It All Began

The host city is more than just a convenient location. In 1925, Karl Terzaghi published “Erdbaumechanik auf bodenphysikalischer Grundlage” in Vienna—widely regarded as the birth of modern soil mechanics.

the Austria Center Vienna

That legacy shapes the ICSMGE 2026 narrative: returning to the roots of our field, yet looking ahead with cutting-edge innovation.’

Highlights & What You Can Expect

  • Venue: Austria Center Vienna, located just 7 minutes by subway from Vienna’s core, beside the Danube and Donaupark.
  • Programme: A rich schedule of plenaries, technical sessions, workshops, poster presentations and industry workshops. Notably, for the first time in the ICSMGE series a plenary session will be organised by the European Federation of Foundation Contractors (EFFC) focusing on climate change and CO₂-footprint reduction.
  • Participation: More than 1 400 full‐paper submissions have already been received.
  • Green Meeting: ICSMGE 2026 is certified according to Austrian ecolabel guidelines. Measures include minimal printed material, no disposable tableware, water refill stations, public transport access and much more.

Important Dates & Registration

Early bird registration opens from 15 October 2025.

Early bird registration ends on 15 March 2026.

Suggested fees for early bird: Members € 895, Non‐members € 995, Students € 475.

Why Attend?

  • Global networking: Engage with leaders from every corner of geotechnical engineering, industry partners and fellow academics.
  • Cutting‐edge insights: Discover how geotechnical practice is evolving in the face of climate risks, sustainability requirements and digital transformation.
  • Cultural and professional value: Attend in one of Europe’s most liveable cities, enjoy strong transport links, and immerse yourself in a vibrant academic and social programme.
  • Commitment to sustainability: Participate in a conference that doesn’t just talk about the changing environment but actively models responsible practices.

Whether you’re a seasoned geotechnical engineer, researcher, young professional or industry partner, ICSMGE 2026 is shaping up to be a must-attend event. The blend of historical relevance, world-class venue, forward‐looking theme and sustainability focus makes this conference both timely and impactful.

Register here: https://www.icsmge2026.org/en/#top

SAIGE Geotechnical Division presents:

Call for Abstracts: 11th South African Young Geotechnical Engineers Conference (SAYGEC) 2026

Date: September 2026
Venue: To be announced

Young geotechnical professionals under 35 working in geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, mining, or civil construction will have the opportunity to showcase their work at the 11th South African Young Geotechnical Engineers Conference (SAYGEC), taking place in September 2026 in the Central Drakensberg.

Find out more