Microbiology is critical for safeguarding our future in a rapidly changing world. AMI's Microbial Solutions for a Changing World Conference, scheduled for 25 – 27th November 2025 at Monash University, welcomes pioneers from all career stages to engage under one roof. The conference is organized around three pivotal themes—Greenhouse Gas Cycling & Mitigation, Health Impacts & Pathogen Control, and Environmental Impacts & Ecosystem Restoration. These themes underscore the essential role of microbiology in advancing global environmental sustainability and public health.
This event provides a platform for early career researchers (ECRs) and PhD students from across the Asia-Pacific region to shine, offering the majority of talks and poster presentations specifically for them to showcase their innovative research. It is also an exceptional opportunity for them to gain insights, connect with peers, and contribute significantly to the microbiological community. We also encourage senior and established scientists to participate, sharing their invaluable expertise and engaging directly with the next generation of microbiologists. Their involvement will enhance the conference experience, serving as a bridge between current research frontiers and future scientific breakthroughs.
By bringing together diverse minds, the conference aims to create a dynamic environment where participants can share insights, forge new connections, and help advance the global conversation on microbiology and climate change.
Whether your research focuses on microbial contributions to carbon cycling, the spread of climate-driven diseases, or ecosystem restoration, we encourage you to submit your work and be part of the solution!"
Greenhouse gas cycling and mitigation
This theme delves into the pivotal role of microbiology in the cycling and mitigation of greenhouse gases, crucial elements in our fight against climate change. Microorganisms play a foundational role in the earth’s carbon cycle by consuming and producing key climate-relevant gases such as methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrogen (H2), and carbon monoxide (CO). Understanding these microbial processes is vital for developing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions effectively.
In natural environments, microbes contribute to the carbon cycle in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, influencing carbon sequestration and release. Agricultural settings also see significant contributions from microbial activities, where management of soil microbiomes can lead to enhanced carbon capture and reduced emissions. Furthermore, in industrial applications, leveraging microbial mechanisms can aid in the development of bio-based technologies aimed at capturing and recycling emissions.
This theme not only highlights the current scientific advancements in microbial research related to greenhouse gases but also encourages discussions on innovative methods to harness these biological processes. Participants will explore how microbiology can be integrated into broader strategies for mitigating climate change impacts in various environmental contexts. Through keynote speeches, focused presentations, and interactive sessions, attendees will gain insights into how cutting-edge research is driving forward the possibilities of microbial applications in greenhouse gas mitigation.
Health impacts & pathogen control
This theme addresses the critical ways in which climate-related changes such as warming temperatures, flooding, and other environmental disasters influence the spread of pathogens and the incidence of algal blooms. The urgency to understand these dynamics is heightened as such climate-driven factors can significantly alter the distribution and severity of infectious diseases and other health-related issues globally.
Participants will examine the interconnectedness of climate change and health through discussions on how extreme weather events and shifting climatic patterns facilitate the growth of pathogens in new regions and environments. The theme will also cover strategies for mitigating health risks associated with waterborne and vector-borne diseases, which are likely to increase due to warmer climates and more frequent extreme weather events.
A key component of this theme is the focus on innovative interventions aimed at controlling and reducing pathogen transmission. Experts will share insights into the latest research and technologies in disease surveillance, predictive modeling, and development of new preventive measures and treatments. The sessions are designed to not only present current findings but also to encourage dialogue on improving health outcomes through effective public health strategies and policies.
Through a mix of keynote presentations, panel discussions, and workshops, attendees will be equipped with knowledge and tools to tackle the challenges at the nexus of climate change and public health. This theme aims to galvanize action and collaboration among microbiologists, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to enhance global health resilience.
Environmental impacts & ecosystem restoration
This theme explores the profound effects of climate change on ecosystems and the critical role of microbes in ecosystem processes and restoration efforts. As climate change alters habitats and disrupts established ecological balances, understanding and harnessing the power of microbial communities becomes essential for effective ecosystem management and restoration.
The discussions within this theme will focus on how microbial functions are integral to ecosystem resilience, from promoting nutrient cycling and pollutant degradation to enhancing plant growth and maintaining soil and water quality. Special attention will be given to the ways microbes contribute to restoring degraded landscapes, such as wetlands, forests, and coastal systems, which are vital for biodiversity and human well-being.
Participants will engage with cutting-edge research that showcases microbial applications in bioengineering and bioremediation projects aimed at reversing environmental degradation. This includes exploring symbiotic relationships between plants and microbes that can be leveraged to rehabilitate lands affected by industrial activities, agriculture, or natural disasters.
Keynote speeches, detailed case studies, and interactive workshops will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the tools and techniques used in modern restoration ecology. This theme aims to empower attendees to initiate and support restoration projects that use microbial innovations to tackle ecological challenges, ensuring the sustainability and health of global ecosystems for future generations.
We understand that early career researchers often face financial challenges, and that many universities and research institutions are also under financial pressure. To help alleviate these concerns, we offer several opportunities to obtain a registration waiver, including, but not limited to, options for those submitting abstracts, speakers, poster presenters, talk presenters, and on-the-day volunteers.