Dear microbiologists, dear participants,

On behalf of the Swiss Society for Microbiology and the scientific committee, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to Interlaken for the annual meeting on August 27th and 28th, 2025. The meeting will take place at the Congress Kursaal, located in the heart of the picturesque small village of Interlaken, home to 6259 residents and more than a million tourists annually.

I am happy to announce an exciting scientific program comprising five keynote lectures delivered by leaders in their fields and a total of 25 parallel sessions covering hot topics from the different sections of the SSM – Clinical Microbiology, Environmental Microbiology, Molecular Microbiology, Mycology and Virology. In addition to the authoritative scientific talks given by invited speakers, short talks will be selected from the submitted abstracts, and ample time will be given for stimulating poster sessions. We will also have inspiring sessions organized by the sections Early Career and Lay Communication (my thesis in 180 seconds).

At the congress, you will not only be exposed to great science but have the opportunity to network with friends and colleagues, socialize, and find your next job. For these activities, the Networking Dinner – taking place at the Congress Kursaal – will provide an ideal setting. Finally, there should even be time to enjoy the spectacular scenery of Interlaken and surroundings or take a swim in one of the two lakes. I am looking forward to an exciting meeting and hope that many of you will join the 2025 congress in Interlaken!