ESCMID Global 2026: 5 must-watch video interviews on the future of microbiology diagnostics
Top video insights on AMR, AST, and infectious disease diagnostics
10 Jun 2026
Editorial article
At ESCMID Global 2026, leading experts and industry innovators gathered to address some of the most pressing challenges in clinical microbiology, infectious disease diagnostics, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
From rapid genomic sequencing to advanced antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) and host-response diagnostics, these exclusive video interviews captured key insights shaping the future of laboratory medicine.
If you are a clinical microbiologist, laboratory manager, or infectious disease specialist, these five expert conversations provide valuable perspectives on how diagnostics are evolving to support faster, more accurate, and clinically actionable decision-making.
1. Danaher’s vision for diagnostic excellence in infectious disease
In this interview, Danaher outlines its strategic vision for advancing infectious disease diagnostics through integrated technologies and a focus on improving clinical workflows.
Key themes include:
- The role of connected diagnostics ecosystems
- Enhancing laboratory efficiency and scalability
- Aligning innovation with unmet clinical needs in microbiology
2. Thermo Fisher Scientific tackles AMR with advanced AST solutions
As antimicrobial resistance (AMR) continues to threaten global health, Thermo Fisher Scientific highlights innovations in antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) designed to support faster, more informed treatment decisions.
Key topics covered:
- Advances in phenotypic AST technologies
- The importance of rapid turnaround times
- Supporting antimicrobial stewardship programmes
3. MeMed BV: Rapid host-response testing for bacterial vs viral infections
Distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections remains a critical challenge in clinical care. This interview explores MeMed’s CE-marked BV test, designed to provide rapid, actionable insights directly within the core laboratory environment.
Key discussion points:
- The role of host-response biomarkers in diagnostics
- Improving diagnostic accuracy at the point of care
- Reducing unnecessary antibiotic prescribing
4. Bringing rapid genomic sequencing into routine infection management
This expert discussion focuses on the integration of rapid genomic sequencing into routine clinical workflows for infectious disease management.
Core insights include:
- Translating NGS (next-generation sequencing) into real-world clinical settings
- Overcoming barriers to implementation
- Supporting outbreak tracking and precision treatment
5. Diagnostic and infection control strategies to contain Candida auris
The global emergence of Candida auris, a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen, presents a significant challenge for clinical microbiology laboratories and infection prevention teams.
In this interview, experts discuss the latest approaches to identifying and controlling C. auris across healthcare settings.
Key discussion points include:
- Advances in rapid and accurate identification techniques
- The importance of laboratory surveillance and screening protocols
- Strategies for infection control and outbreak containment
- Addressing the rise of antifungal resistance
Why these conversations matter for clinical laboratories
Across all five interviews, several key trends emerged from ESCMID Global 2026:
- Speed to result is critical: Rapid diagnostics are transforming clinical decision-making
- Integration is key: Platforms must align with existing laboratory workflows
- AMR remains a top priority: Diagnostic innovation is central to global stewardship efforts
- Data-driven diagnostics: Genomics and host-response testing are reshaping how infections are identified and managed
For laboratory leaders and clinicians, staying informed about these developments is essential to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care.
Watch, learn, and stay ahead
These interviews offer practical insights from experts at the forefront of clinical microbiology and infectious disease diagnostics.
Frequently asked questions
What were the key microbiology trends highlighted at ESCMID Global 2026?
At ESCMID Global 2026, major trends included the growing importance of rapid diagnostic testing, advances in antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), and the integration of genomic sequencing into routine clinical workflows. There was also strong emphasis on addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and emerging threats such as Candida auris through improved diagnostics and infection control strategies.
Why are rapid diagnostics important in clinical microbiology?
Rapid diagnostics enable faster identification of infectious agents, allowing clinicians to make timely and targeted treatment decisions. This reduces unnecessary antibiotic use, supports antimicrobial stewardship programs, and improves patient outcomes, particularly in critical care and sepsis management.
What is antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), and why is it evolving?
Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) determines how effective specific antibiotics are against pathogens. New AST technologies are evolving to deliver faster results, improve accuracy, and support better clinical decision-making in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
How is genomic sequencing being used in infectious disease diagnostics?
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is increasingly being adopted in clinical microbiology to identify pathogens, detect resistance genes, and support outbreak investigations. Rapid genomic sequencing is helping laboratories move toward precision diagnostics and more personalized infection management.
What is host-response testing, and how does it help distinguish infections?
Host-response testing measures the patient’s immune response to infection rather than detecting the pathogen directly. Solutions such as MeMed BV® help differentiate between bacterial and viral infections, improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing unnecessary antibiotic prescribing.
Why is Candida auris a major concern for healthcare systems?
Candida auris is a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen associated with hospital outbreaks and high mortality rates. It is difficult to identify using traditional methods and can spread rapidly in healthcare settings, making rapid detection, surveillance, and infection control critical.
How can laboratories improve detection of Candida auris?
Clinical laboratories can improve detection by adopting advanced identification methods, such as MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry or molecular diagnostics, and implementing screening protocols for high-risk patients. Early identification is essential for effective infection control and outbreak containment.
How do these ESCMID Global 2026 interviews benefit laboratory professionals?
These expert interviews provide practical insights into real-world diagnostic challenges, emerging technologies, and strategies for improving laboratory workflows. They help laboratory professionals stay informed about innovations that can enhance efficiency, accuracy, and patient care.
What role do diagnostics play in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR)?
Diagnostics are central to combating AMR by enabling early and accurate pathogen identification, guiding appropriate antibiotic use, and supporting surveillance efforts. Advanced diagnostics help clinicians avoid unnecessary treatments and slow the spread of resistant organisms.
Where can I watch expert interviews on the latest microbiology innovations?
You can explore all featured video interviews from ESCMID Global 2026 on SelectScience, covering topics such as AMR, AST, host-response diagnostics, genomic sequencing, and emerging pathogens like Candida auris. These interviews provide valuable insights for laboratory professionals and clinicians looking to stay ahead in infectious disease diagnostics.