The International Union of Microbiological Societies (IUMS) Congress 2024 concluded last month in the beautiful city of Florence, Italy, leaving a lasting impression on the global microbiology community. This year’s event not only set the stage for groundbreaking discussions and collaborations but also surpassed expectations in every key metric, making it one of the most successful editions to date.
Thanks to an impactful marketing campaign, IUMS 2024 achieved top-record abstract submissions, receiving an impressive 1,596 abstracts from researchers around the world. The response from the scientific community was overwhelming, demonstrating the congress's reputation as a premier platform for microbiological innovation and knowledge exchange.
The registration numbers also exceeded all targets. From an initial goal of 900 participants, the congress welcomed nearly 1,500 attendees, a testament to the compelling program and the dedication of the organizing team.
What made this achievement even more remarkable was the steady increase in expectations. As interest in the congress grew, so did the goals. Meeting and surpassing these benchmarks reflects not only the success of the marketing strategy but also the relevance of IUMS 2024's themes and sessions to the needs of microbiologists worldwide.
The meeting in Florence marked a historic milestone in microbiology. We learned about the significance of microbes in various aspects of life, including health, climate change, and the economy.
Traditionally held as a triennial event, IUMS adapted its format in 2020 due to the global pandemic. Originally planned to take place in the Republic of Korea, the 2020 congress shifted to an online format, setting the stage for a significant change: moving to a biennial congress model.
The 2022 Congress faced similar challenges. Initially planned for Amsterdam and later Rotterdam, it ultimately transitioned online due to travel restrictions. However, 2024 marked a return to in-person congresses with the vibrant city of Florence hosting the first fully face-to-face IUMS event in years.
What sets IUMS apart is its innovative program structure, which integrates three distinct divisions: Bacteriology and Applied Microbiology (BAM), Virology (VIR) and Mycology and Eukaryotic Microbiology (MEM).
Each division hosted its own specialized sessions, while multidisciplinary sessions brought these fields together to encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing. This format offered attendees a comprehensive and dynamic experience, catering to a diverse array of interests and expertise.
The success of IUMS 2024 has set a high standard for future editions. Florence proved to be the perfect backdrop, combining rich cultural heritage with state-of-the-art facilities to create an unforgettable experience for participants.
To all who joined us in Florence, thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Whether you contributed as a speaker, submitted an abstract, or attended the sessions, your engagement has solidified IUMS as a cornerstone of the microbiological sciences.
We look forward to welcoming you again for the 2026 edition (visit: https://iums2026.com/) to continue building a thriving global microbiology community, this time in the charming city of Lisbon, Portugal.
Stay connected and inspired!
You can view the IUMS 2024 photo gallery on this year's website: https://iums2024.com/
Dan’s quote
I vividly recall the meeting where you decided to entrust us and we partnered together.
We will continue to strive and work together to additional successful IUMS events.
Eliora Z. Ron quote
Dear Dan
The IUMS congress is over and I want to let you know that it was a tremendous success. The Kenes team, led by Yariv Gal Yam, was excellent – cooperative and efficient. It was a very good experience and I am looking forward to the next congress in 2026!
Warm regards
Eliora
Eliora Z. Ron, PhD the IUMS Past President and Rino, who is the President agreed with her.
Professor of Microbiology
The Shmunis School of Biomedicine and Cancer Research
Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
