Workshops & Hands-on

At Microbiotec’25, we are pleased to offer 3 workshops to our participants.
All workshops are free of charge for registered congress participants, but places are limited and registration is required.
Don’t miss your chance to take part in these engaging and hands-on experiences!

Workshop: Machine Learning Fundamentals for Computational Biology

Date: December 6, 2025 | Time: 14:30 – 16:00 (parallel session)
Location: Room A015
Speaker: Dr. Wout Bittremieux (Adrem Data Lab at the University of Antwerp/ Belgium)
Capacity: Limited to 30 participants
Registration: Free for Microbiotec’25 attendees
This interactive and accessible session introduces how Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning can be applied to biological data. Designed for early-career researchers with limited programming experience, the workshop will demystify how models “learn” from experimental data and how AI can support biological discovery.
Main topics:
  • Core concepts of machine learning and model training using biological datasets.
  • Practical applications in proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiome analysis.
  • Simple examples and visualizations (Python or online tools).
  • Open discussion on how biologists can start using AI tools, open datasets, and collaborate with computational scientists.

Workshop: Microbial Safari – Exploring the Thermal Ecosystem of Furnas

Date: December 7, 2025 | Time: 14:30 – 16:30
Location: Chã das Caldeiras, Furnas (São Miguel Island)
Organized by: OMIC – Microbial Observatory of the Azores
Capacity: Limited to 30 participants – PLEASE CHECK AVAILABILITY DIRECTLY IN THE  SECRETARIAT ON SITE
Registration: Free for Microbiotec’25 attendees
Transportation: Join us for a guided field activity through the fumarolic field of Furnas, home to unique microbial communities thriving in extreme environments. Participants will observe in situ the colorful microbial biofilms formed by extremophiles and learn about their ecological and biotechnological significance. The activity also includes a visit to the OMIC permanent exhibition, a tasting of local mineral waters, and a “thermal snack,” offering a sensory experience of the Furnas geothermal ecosystem and its traditional uses.
Shuttle bus provided by the organization (Bus departure in front of the Hotel NEAT at 14:00)

Workshop: From Discovery to Product — Translational Pathways in Biotechnology

Date: December 5, 2025 | Time: 14:00 – 15:00 (parallel session)
Location: Room A015
Speakers: Ana Leonardo, Ana Simões, Filomena Silva, Isa Moutinho e Magda Ferreira (Vector B2B)
Capacity: Limited to 30 participants
Language: English
Registration: Free for Microbiotec’25 attendees
This 60-minute workshop explores how biotechnological innovations move from fundamental discovery to real-world products. The session highlights practical translational pathways, challenges in technology maturation, and regulatory compliance.
Main topics:
  • Key steps from Discovery to Clinical Trial Application
  • Regulatory considerations and compliance with international standards
  • Case studies of drug products at different developmental stages