Sparking Global Collaboration and Innovation: Highlights from Biofilms 11
The Biofilms 11 conference, held from 13–15 May 2025 at the Holland House Hotel Cardiff by Sunday, marked a significant milestone in advancing the understanding and innovation surrounding microbial biofilms. Hosted by the National Biofilms Innovation Centre (NBIC) and the Microbiology Society, the event brought together over 250 researchers and industry professionals from across the globe. This article covers the highlights from Biofilms 11.
Under the theme “Interdisciplinary Momentum: Accelerating Biofilm Research and Innovation Across Boundaries,” Biofilms 11 emphasised the importance of cross-disciplinary dialogue. The conference featured a diverse line up of speakers, including early-career scientists, established researchers, and industry experts, all sharing insights into the latest developments in biofilm science. Topics spanned a wide spectrum – from infections, antimicrobial resistance, and food safety to water security, marine biofouling, and corrosion, reflecting the multifaceted nature of biofilm research.
A notable highlight was the BBSRC-sponsored NBIC ‘Celebrating Diversity’ session, which provided a dedicated platform to reflect on equality, diversity, and inclusion in the field and to champion initiatives fostering a more inclusive research environment.
Organisers were honoured to welcome Professor Jas Pal Badyal FRS, Chief Scientific Advisor to the Welsh Government, who formally opened the conference and shared highlights from his research, as well as discussing the impact of biofilm research in Wales and beyond.
Professor Jas Pal Badyal FRS said,
“Biofilms are a gateway to innovation across sectors, from healthcare to environmental sustainability. Events like Biofilms 11 highlight the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, and I’m proud to see Wales playing a pivotal role in shaping the global biofilm research agenda”.
Innovative Technologies and Applications
Attendees were introduced to cutting-edge technologies in imaging, data analytics, and modeling, showcasing how advancements in both life and physical sciences are being integrated to tackle biofilm-related challenges. These technological innovations are paving the way for new approaches in environmental management, industrial processes, and healthcare settings. These innovations are driving the development of new strategies across a range of industrial applications.
Celebrating EDI Within the Biofilm Community
The ‘Celebrating Diversity’ session was dedicated to the late Professor Paul Stoodley, who was a hugely influential figure in the international biofilm community. This BBSRC sponsored NBIC EDI session was Chaired by Professor Hilary Lappin-Scott OBE. Panel members Sashikumar Ramamirtham, Hansani Wahalathanthrige, Freya Harrison and Matthew Ryan discussed the importance of recognising the systemic physical and social barriers related to EDI within the scientific community and what actions could be taken to create more inclusive and equitable environments for all researchers. Sincere thanks were extended to the Chair and panel for their honest and impactful discussions. Their insights and openness sparked essential conversations that will inspire to motivate change in the community.
Networking and Career Development
Biofilms 11 provided ample opportunities for networking, with dedicated sessions for poster presentations and discussions. The conference also highlighted the importance of mentorship and career development, offering guidance to attendees at all stages of their professional journeys.
Richard Rowlands, Technician Demonstrator at Cardiff Metropolitan University, who was awarded an NBIC event bursary said,
“To be surrounded by and able to converse with the best people, all with the same passionate mindset as me about microbial biofilms was monumental. I gained so much insight into current research trends and it affirmed that the path I was following was correct. I made great contacts and some good friends along the way both from NBIC and the wider microbiology community”.
Looking Ahead
The success of Biofilms 11 underscores the growing significance of biofilm research and the need for continued collaboration across disciplines.The insights and connections forged during the conference are expected to drive future innovations and solutions in the field. The next conference, Biofilms 12, will take place in Hamburg, Germany, in September 2027 – stay tuned!
Hear more about the conference from those who attended by exploring the Biofilms 11 hashtag on LinkedIn: #Biofilms11.