Monthly Archives: September 2026

A Computational Approach to Species Complexes

A Computational Approach to Species Complexes

Speakers: Dr. Jim Nastos and Clara Elliott
Computer Science Department
Okanagan College, Kelowna, BC

Time & Date: 06:30 pm – 7:30 pm, Thursday, October 8th, 2026
Location: Room E309, Computer Science Department, Okanagan College
Registration is open now:

Abstract:

Data clustering and classification are fundamental problems in data science, with applications in almost every field of study. In this talk, we present prototype software that applies a data science approach to identifying groups of closely related species and possible species complexes.

We will present our prototype software, which implements a pipeline that queries the GenBank and BOLD databases for genetic data, uses sequence alignment to generate measures of genetic similarity, and augments these measures with morphological data. Similarity relationships are visualized as network graphs, allowing users to identify and propose potential species groupings for further investigation.

This ongoing project has been jointly funded by Okanagan College’s Grants-in-Aid Fund and the College’s Department of Applied Science.

Speakers’ Bios:

Jim Nastos is a College Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Okanagan College in Kelowna, Canada. He earned degrees from the University of Waterloo, the University of Alberta, and the University of British Columbia, and he has co-authored ten papers in refereed journals. His research interests include algorithmic graph theory, complex networks, complexity theory, social network analysis and their applications. His favourite biological taxon is Agelenopsis.

Clara Elliott is a fourth-year BCIS student with two years of experience as a research assistant on graph algorithms research projects at Okanagan College. Her favourite biological taxon is Felidae.

 

Join us for an exciting COSC student and professor research presentation!
Support and learn from students as they share their work.
Snacks and lunch will be provided, so bring your curiosity (and your appetite)!
We’d love to see you there!

For further information, please contact Youry Khmelevsky (email: Youry at IEEE.org)
Refreshments will be provided

The IEEE Thompson Okanagan Computer Science Education Symposium (IEEE TOK-CSES 2026)

Full Paper Submission Deadline Extended to 16 September 2026.

The IEEE Thompson Okanagan Computer Science Education Symposium (IEEE TOK-CSES 2026) is a regional symposium dedicated to advancing innovation in computer science and technology education (https://conferences.ieee.org/conferences_events/conferences/conferencedetails/72112).

Hosted by the IEEE Thompson Okanagan Section, the symposium brings together educators, researchers, and industry practitioners to exchange ideas on teaching methodologies, educational tools, and emerging trends in computing education. It provides a platform to share research-driven insights and practical experiences from classrooms, labs, and industry training environments.

IEEE TOK CSES bridges the gap between theory and practice by encouraging contributions that explore new pedagogical approaches, evaluate instructional technologies, and report real-world teaching experiences. The symposium fosters a collaborative environment where participants can learn from both successful innovations and instructive challenges.

Through peer-reviewed presentations, interactive sessions, and community engagement, IEEE TOK CSES 2026 aims to strengthen the computing education ecosystem in the Thompson Okanagan region and beyond, supporting continuous improvement in the teaching and learning of computer science and related disciplines.

Venue

Event Dates: October 22 & 23, 2026 (8:45 am – 6:15 pm, for both days)
Location: CFL Atrium (E100), Okanagan College, 1000 KLO Rd., Kelowna, BC V1Y 4X8

Located in Kelowna, British Columbia, Okanagan College offers a modern, accessible setting for technical exchange and collaboration. The venue offers an engaging in-person experience with research presentations, exhibits, and networking opportunities.

Important Dates

  • Full Paper Submission Deadline: September 7, 2026 (Extended: 14 16 September 2026 — Final Submission Deadline)
  • Notification of Acceptance: September 28, 2026
  • Final (Camera-Ready) Submission: October 12, 2026
  • Registration Deadline: October 12, 2026
  • Symposium Date: October 23, 2026

All submissions will undergo a double-blind peer review process, with multiple experts reviewing each paper to ensure quality and rigour.

Symposium Committees: http://www.okanagan.ieee.ca/tok-workshops/tok-cses-2026/tok-cses-2026-committees/ 

TOK-CSES2026 Call for Contribution and Participation: http://www.okanagan.ieee.ca/tok-workshops/tok-cses-2026/tok-cses2026-call-for-contribution-and-participation/

Register

Early Bird Registration (ending on September 28th, 2026 )

  • Admission, including Tax & Fees: $300
  • Conference Admission, without the Thursday banquet, including Tax & Fees: $250
  • Conference Admission for the Student/Retiree, including Tax & Fees: $100
  • Additional paper submission: $50

Registration Site

Please visit the (TBA) site to complete your registration. You must create an account (if you don’t already have one) on the TBA site.

Travel Information

Air Travel

Kelowna is easily reached by air. Its international airport (YLW) serves numerous Canadian cities and major hubs in the United States.

Airport Connections

A taxi or public transit is the most convenient way to travel from the airport to Okanagan College or a nearby hotel. Kelowna International Airport’s website can help you figure out a route on public transit.

Accommodations

We understand that finding the right accommodation is essential for a comfortable and convenient conference experience. We have partnered with two excellent hotels to provide you with options that suit your preferences.

The Shore – Exclusive Discount Promo:

Enjoy a special discount when booking your stay at The Shore. Simply use the code (TBA) when making your reservation online to take advantage of this limited-time offer. This code is valid for bookings between June 1st and July 31st.

Siesta Suites – Reservation by Phone:

Siesta Suites is just a phone call away if you prefer a more personalized approach to booking your accommodation. Contact (250) 763-5013 to their dedicated reservation team at the provided phone number. Mention that you are attending the conference to secure a room at the best available rate.

You can also explore the BC Government Employees Business Travel Accommodation Listing, which is available only to BC government employees, MLAs, members of the Judiciary system, contractors, Alberta, Saskatchewan, or State of Washington government employees, and BC public sector entities that are on the CSA User’s List.

Things to Do In Kelowna

Looking for more ideas? You can start out by checking out what Okanagan College has to offer by visiting the Okanagan College site. For some ideas on what to do in the Kelowna area, be sure to check out the Tourism Kelowna and City of Kelowna websites.

Food and Drink on Okanagan College Campus

Okanagan College offers two cafeteria options: Marmalade Cat Café and Keluli Café. In addition, there is The Market, where you can find grab-and-go meal options and locally sourced products.

There are many places on campus. Search for anything in particular!