ESCMID workshop: Artificial intelligence and machine learning in medical microbiology diagnostics

Abstract

Rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) offer significant potential to transform medical microbiology diagnostics, improving pathogen identification, antimicrobial susceptibility prediction and outbreak detection. To address these opportunities and challenges, the ESCMID workshop, "Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Medical Microbiology Diagnostics", was held in Zurich, Switzerland, from June 2-5, 2025. The course featured expert lectures, practical sessions and panel discussions covering foundational ML concepts and deep learning architectures, data interoperability, quality control processes, model development and validation strategies. Key applications discussed included whole-genome sequencing for antimicrobial resistance detection, AI-enhanced digital microscopy automation and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry-based diagnostics. Participants gained hands-on experience with essential AI tools and platforms. Special emphasis was placed on standardised laboratory protocols, regulatory compliance and ethical considerations, including data governance and patient privacy. Panel sessions further highlighted critical issues of equity, global disparities in AI access, sustainability and environmental impacts related to AI infrastructure. The workshop concluded by underscoring a necessity for ongoing interdisciplinary collaboration, continued education, and substantial investment in equitable AI infrastructure to realise the full potential of AI in clinical diagnostics.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence; Conference report; Diagnostics; Machine learning; Medical microbiology; Meeting report.