For three impactful days, 22–24 September 2025, the Thessaloniki Concert Hall became a vibrant hub of scientific exchange as the Joint International Conference of MikroBioKosmos and CEESME 2025 (MBKCEESME 2025) welcomed a thriving international community of researchers, early-career scientists, institutions and organisations from twenty-eight countries. United by a shared passion to understand, protect and harness the microbial world, participants came together to celebrate science, innovation and collaboration.
This year’s conference offered a rich and thought-provoking programme, touching on a wide range of topics that reflect the depth and breadth of the field. From Agriculture and Environment to Biotechnology, Food and Nutrition, One Health, Climate Change, Symbiosis, Conservation and Antimicrobial Resistance, the sessions showcased the impact of microbial sciences on today’s most urgent global challenges. Plenary lectures, round tables and lively poster sessions created space for knowledge sharing and meaningful exchange, while the presence of young researchers brought fresh energy and vision to every corner of the event.
MikroBioKosmos, the Hellenic Scientific Society behind the initiative, once again demonstrated its key role as a vital scientific hub – not only in Greece, but across the Mediterranean and southeast Europe. Since its founding in 2007, the society has worked to build bridges across disciplines and borders, and this conference made it clear: Greece continues to rise as a key player in the microbial sciences. The international scope of the event was further strengthened by the support and presence of the International Society for Microbial Ecology (ISME), whose commitment to global collaboration and scientific excellence was evident throughout.
As the PCO, AFEA Congress was honoured to bring this ambitious event to life. Supporting this conference was not only a professional achievement but a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the scientific community and reinforce Greece’s role as a host of high-impact academic events. This wouldn’t have been possible without the leadership and collaboration of many dedicated individuals.
We extend our warmest thanks to Professor Evangelos Topakas, President of the MikroBioKosmos Society and President of the Conference, whose vision and guidance shaped every stage of this journey. We also sincerely thank Dr Chrysoula Tassou, Secretary of MikroBioKosmos and member of the Organising Committee, for her constant presence, dedication and trust in our collaboration. Finally, we are grateful to the entire network of speakers, researchers, partners and supporters who helped make MBKCEESME 2025 such a resounding success.
This conference leaves behind a legacy of new ideas, strengthened collaborations and a shared momentum toward advancing microbial science for the benefit of society. As we look ahead, we do so with renewed purpose and excitement for what comes next.
