Top Microbiology Experts to Convene at GIMM Fest in Lisbon
Taking place in Lisbon from September 17-19, the GIMM Fest will gather leading microbiologists to discuss the role of microbes in human health and adaptation, addressing emerging threats like antimicrobial resistance and viruses.
Lisbon will host the GIMM Fest from September 17-19, 2026, bringing together global leaders in microbiology to discuss the role of microorganisms in human health, biological evolution, and ecosystem sustainability. Central themes will include the growing resistance of bacteria to medicines, the threat of emerging viruses, and understanding biological adaptation.
The event aims to foster dialogue between science and society, as well as advance biomedical innovation amidst global challenges like pandemics and environmental changes that demand urgent scientific responses. The program will feature discussions on host-microbe interactions and strategies for addressing biological threats.
Key speakers include Nobel laureate in Medicine Charles M. Rice, pivotal in identifying the hepatitis C virus, and Princeton University's Bonnie Bassler, an expert in bacterial communication. Yasmine Belkaid from the Pasteur Institute and Isabel Gordo, focusing on microbiome-immune system interactions and bacterial evolution, will also participate.
Over three days, the festival will provide public engagement on the 21st century's significant scientific challenges, including host-microbe dynamics, antimicrobial resistance, emerging viruses, and the engineering of biological processes. The World Health Organization has designated antimicrobial resistance as a major global health threat.
GIMM Fest reinforces Lisbon's role as an international hub for cutting-edge research and innovation in microbiology and global health. The event is organized by the Gulbenkian Institute for Molecular Medicine (GIMM).