LABI Meeting 2025 gathered researchers, institutions, and partners from across Latin America for three days of exchange, collaboration, and shared purpose in Buenos Aires. This year’s meeting showcased how connecting technology, people, and ideas can accelerate scientific progress across the region.

Day 1: Technology in Action
The meeting opened under the theme Technology in Action: Driving Scientific and Biomedical Breakthroughs. Fernando Stefani (CIBION-CONICET, Argentina) set the stage with a keynote on how imaging technologies are reshaping discovery. Claire Brown (ABIF, McGill University, Canada) emphasized the importance of global bioimaging networks, followed by a round table on democratizing access to advanced technologies in Latin America.

The technical session In-vivo Imaging: From Cell to Human, moderated by Nicole Salgado (Universidad de Chile), highlighted real-world examples of regional innovation, featuring contributions from Leonel Malacrida, Rupert Ecker, Emiliano Medei, and Fernanda Tovar-Moll. Lightning Talks brought creative perspectives from emerging researchers, and LABI’s Working Groups presented advances in Data Science, Outreach, and Training.

The day concluded with a special Honoris Causa ceremony recognizing Carlos Bustamante (UC Berkeley) for his groundbreaking contributions to single-molecule force spectroscopy. LABI Network Manager Andrés Olivera closed the day by emphasizing how LABI Fellowships help accelerate technology adoption across the region.

Day 2: Data Science & Infrastructure
The second day focused on building stronger foundations for open, FAIR, and AI-ready data in Latin America. Stephan Preibisch delivered an inspiring keynote that led into a round table on sustainable and collaborative regional data infrastructure.

Sessions throughout the day showcased practical applications of data science — from AI-driven analysis to open-access tools developed within Latin America. Lightning Talks once again highlighted the creativity and depth of the community.

Workshops and networking activities filled the afternoon, with participants engaging in topics such as FAIR data management, grant writing, and South–South partnerships. As LABI’s Network Manager reminded us:

“When you connect people strategically, individual transformation scales into systemic change.”

This idea captured the spirit of the day and reaffirmed LABI’s mission to empower regional leadership in science.

Day 3: Connecting Institutions and Communities
The final day focused on bridging research, education, and public engagement. In the morning, participants visited imaging facilities at the Universidad de Buenos Aires, exploring advanced technologies, collaborative spaces, and ongoing research across UBA centers.

In the afternoon, two outreach activities demonstrated LABI’s commitment to open and accessible science. Microscopists from across Latin America collaborated with local school teachers on cellphone microscopy demonstrations as part of UBA’s Science Week and the LABI Outreach and Integration Working Group. In parallel, interactions with students and researchers highlighted how bioimaging connects to public health, education, and environmental challenges.

LABI Meeting 2025 closed with renewed energy and a strengthened regional network committed to driving scientific innovation in Latin America. And this journey continues — we’ll meet again next year in Panama!