Session Types
Cross-Track Plenary
This type of session focuses on interdisciplinary topics of broad interest and showcases transcendent science. Cross-Track Plenaries provide an opportunity to expand scientific knowledge and better understand new trends in the field of microbiology. The format is 2-hours in length and features three invited speakers, followed by a panel discussion or Q&A with the audience.
In-Depth Symposium Information
This type of session addresses an important issue and/or research on a particular subject, with diverse knowledge and/or points of view presented by leading experts. The format is 2-hours in length and features 2 invited speakers and 3-4 oral abstracts. Basic Sciences Tracks offer special In-Depth Symposia, featuring 3 invited speakers with panel discussion or “Hot Topics” symposia with all oral abstracts.
Track Hub Session
This type of session features a short, highly interactive presentation on a track-specific topic held in informal, open-space Track Hubs on the Exhibit and Poster Hall floor. The format is 45-minutes in length and features 1 invited speaker. Clinical Tracks offer Track Hub Sessions outside of the Exhibit and Poster Hall in a Lounge and Learn with Continuing Medical Education (CME) credit.Career Talks
This type of session features informal, interactive sessions with microbiologists from a wide variety of careers, sharing information on their position responsibilities and guidance on how to join their field. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions for the presenters to receive career path advice.
Meet the Expert
This session type features an invited speaker from a symposium or an ASM Academy of Microbiology Award recipient who addresses a significant problem and/or gap in knowledge on a particular subject. The format includes audience interaction with the speaker following their presentation.Panel Discussion
This type of session generates spontaneous interaction among panelists, and between panelists and the audience in response to questions posed by the convener who moderates the panel. The format is 1-hour in length and features 3 panelists.
Course/Workshop
Held on Thursday, courses and workshops have a separate registration fee. Courses feature a series of instructors that cover a selection of related subjects typically presented in a lecture format—interactions center on small group discussions and question/answer periods. Workshops are interactive, and the attendees participate in instructional training that takes a deeper dive into a particular subject, software or specialized equipment.
Mini-Conference
This session type is an extended format focusing on a specific topic area in the microbial sciences. Mini-Conferences are held on Thursday and are open to all ASM Microbe participants. There are no additional fees for Mini-Conferences; however, space is limited, and early registration is encouraged to secure a seat.