By Jacob Nelson, Associate Research Scientist
The recent ASM Microbe meeting brought together an impressive cross-section of the infectious disease community, from researchers and public health leaders to technology developers and industry partners. After nearly two decades working in virology and vector-borne diseases, I attended the meeting with an interest in understanding where the science is headed and where Lovelace’s expertise can help support ongoing research efforts.
Throughout the conference, a few themes consistently surfaced in presentations, panel discussions, and conversations across the meeting. Emerging infectious diseases, advances in laboratory automation, and long-term preparedness appear to be major priorities for the field and will continue to shape where research and investment are focused.
Hantavirus and Ebola Are Key Priorities
Two pathogens generated considerable attention throughout ASM Microbe: hantavirus and Ebola virus.
One of the most memorable sessions focused on the current hantavirus outbreak and the broader public health challenges surrounding the disease. The panel brought together experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the University of Nebraska, Emory University, and several other leading institutions, with discussions ranging from diagnostics and patient care to outbreak response and preparedness planning.
I was especially pleased to see the University of New Mexico represented by Dr. Steven B. Bradfute, whose contributions to hantavirus research and diagnostics were highlighted during the session. Dr. Bradfute discussed work conducted at UNM to help establish reliable PCR-based approaches for detecting hantaviruses and distinguishing among viral strains—capabilities that are essential for effective surveillance, diagnosis, and outbreak response.
For those of us in New Mexico, hantavirus carries particular significance. The state has seen cases since the disease was first identified here in 1993, and infections continue to occur each year. Rural communities and the Navajo Nation have experienced a substantial impact from the disease over time.
Given New Mexico’s longstanding connection to hantavirus research and surveillance, it was encouraging to see local expertise playing a prominent role in national conversations about outbreak preparedness and response. Hearing experts from across the country discuss current challenges and research priorities reinforced how important continued surveillance, public awareness, and scientific investigation remain.
What I found especially valuable was hearing how differently each group approached the challenge. Researchers focused on the ecology and transmission dynamics of the virus, while public health professionals discussed diagnostics, patient management, and response strategies. Together, those perspectives provided a more complete picture of the work involved in addressing emerging infectious diseases.
Ebola was another major topic throughout the conference. Presentations covered outbreak response, clinical care, and the healthcare infrastructure required to support future response efforts. Many speakers emphasized the value of maintaining specialized treatment centers and preserving institutional expertise so healthcare systems can respond quickly whenever new cases emerge.
Preparedness Remains a Long-Term Effort
Preparedness surfaced throughout the conference, whether the focus was Ebola, hantavirus, diagnostics, or healthcare infrastructure.
Several presentations explored opportunities to strengthen diagnostic technologies and improve the speed of detection and response. Others focused on maintaining the expertise, facilities, and operational capabilities needed to address future infectious disease threats.
A common thread across these discussions was the understanding that preparedness depends on sustained investment and coordination across the scientific, healthcare, public health, and industry communities. Building and maintaining those capabilities takes time, and many speakers emphasized the importance of continuing that work between outbreaks.
Automation and AI Continue to Transform Laboratory Operations
Walking the exhibition floor made it clear how quickly laboratory technology is advancing.
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and laboratory automation were among the most visible technology trends at the meeting. Companies showcased a wide range of tools designed to improve efficiency, increase throughput, and streamline laboratory workflows.
Several vendors demonstrated highly automated systems capable of culturing organisms, processing samples, monitoring experiments, and analyzing data with limited hands-on involvement. Others highlighted AI-enabled software platforms that support sample tracking, workflow management, and data interpretation within clinical laboratories.
Even familiar laboratory tools are becoming increasingly sophisticated. One technology that caught my attention was a new generation of intelligent pipetting systems capable of storing and executing complex protocols directly from handheld devices. Seeing these capabilities integrated into everyday laboratory equipment demonstrated how automation is becoming part of routine research operations across many types of laboratories.
The strong presence of AI and automation throughout the conference suggested that laboratories across the industry will continue evaluating how these technologies can support scientific discovery, improve efficiency, and help teams make better use of their time and resources.
Building Strategic Connections
Beyond the scientific sessions, ASM Microbe created opportunities to connect with researchers, biotechnology companies, and public health organizations working across a broad range of infectious disease areas.
Many of those conversations focused on organizations developing therapeutics, diagnostics, and research programs that could benefit from specialized biocontainment facilities or advanced animal model capabilities. These discussions highlighted how much progress can be achieved when organizations bring complementary expertise together to tackle complex scientific questions.
The conference also provided valuable insight into emerging research priorities and areas where future collaboration opportunities may develop. Understanding where the field is directing its attention helps identify ways organizations like Lovelace can continue supporting scientific progress and preparedness efforts.
Looking Ahead
I left ASM Microbe with a clearer picture of where infectious disease research is headed and where new opportunities for collaboration may emerge.
Whether the conversation focused on emerging pathogens, diagnostics, laboratory automation, or preparedness, there was a shared commitment to finding practical solutions that strengthen public health and advance scientific discovery.
For organizations like Lovelace, those conversations help shape how we continue supporting researchers, partners, and preparedness efforts in the years ahead. ASM offered an encouraging look at the innovation, expertise, and dedication driving the field forward, and I look forward to seeing how many of these ideas continue to evolve over the coming years.