The 2026 Interdepartmental Microbiology Spring Retreat brought the IM community together on March 27 in Kildee Hall for an afternoon of scientific discussion, student research, and interdisciplinary connection!
Organized by the Microbiology Graduate Student Organization, the retreat featured a poster session, keynote address, faculty talks, and student presentations that highlighted the breadth of microbiology research at Iowa State. From plant and animal pathogens to microbial ecology, host-pathogen interactions, and new tools for studying viruses and immunity, the retreat reflected both the diversity of work across the program and the strong sense of community behind it.
We also extend a special thank you to keynote speaker Dr. Alexander Meeske of the University of Washington, who shared his work on Anti-CRISPRs in his presentation, “Phage-encoded transcription factors that silence the CRISPR-Cas immune response.” We’re grateful for everyone who helped make the retreat a success, and we’re already looking forward to next year!