The Czech-BioImaging community was strongly represented at the 26th European Light Microscopy Initiative (ELMI) Meeting, held from 16–19 June 2026 in Coimbra, Portugal. Hosted by the Portuguese Platform of BioImaging (PPBI) and the University of Coimbra, ELMI 2026 brought together researchers, imaging facility experts, technology developers, and industry partners from across Europe and beyond to discuss the latest advances in light microscopy and bioimaging.
ELMI: A Key Event for the European Imaging Community
Recognized as one of the leading annual meetings of the European microscopy community, ELMI provides a unique platform for scientific exchange, technology showcases, facility networking, and community building. This year’s programme featured developments in advanced microscopy technologies, image analysis, artificial intelligence, spatial biology, and emerging imaging approaches, attracting participants from imaging facilities and research infrastructures across Europe.
Strengthening Connections Across the Imaging Community
Representatives from several Czech-BioImaging Facilities attended ELMI 2026, including MUNI CELLIM CEITEC, IMG LM, CUNI IMCF BIOCEV, CUNI VMCF, IEB IF, and IEM MSC, using the opportunity to strengthen connections within the European bioimaging community and engage with colleagues from imaging facilities, research infrastructures, and industry. ELMI continues to be an important venue for exchanging experiences and discussing common challenges in facility operation, user support, training, and the implementation of new technologies.
Engaging with Euro-BioImaging ERIC Colleagues
A valuable aspect of the meeting was the interaction with colleagues from Euro-BioImaging ERIC and its Nodes across Europe. These discussions provided opportunities to share experiences, explore future collaborations, and strengthen Czech-BioImaging’s involvement within the broader Euro-BioImaging community. Such exchanges play an important role in ensuring that Czech-BioImaging remains closely connected to European developments in imaging technologies, facility services, and research infrastructure activities.
Exploring New Technologies with Industry Partners
The Czech-BioImaging delegation also met with microscopy manufacturers and technology providers participating in the extensive industrial exhibition. These interactions offered insights into the latest instrumentation, imaging solutions, and technological trends, helping Czech-BioImaging Facilities stay informed about innovations that may benefit the Czech research community in the future.
Building a Stronger European Bioimaging Network
Beyond the scientific programme, ELMI 2026 once again demonstrated the importance of community building within the European imaging ecosystem. The meeting provided an excellent environment for networking, exchanging ideas, and strengthening professional relationships that support future collaborations across facilities, institutions, and countries.
We thank the ELMI 2026 organizers and our colleagues from the Portuguese Platform of BioImaging for hosting an inspiring and welcoming meeting in the historic city of Coimbra. We return with new contacts, valuable insights, and renewed motivation to continue supporting excellence in bioimaging and microscopy services within Czech-BioImaging and the wider European imaging community.
Photos are courtesy of Jiří Černý and Ivan Novotný, IMG LM CF
