Editorial - the gem genomics epidemics microbes April 2025

By Tulio de Oliveira

What an intense and rewarding month it has been.

In April 2025, we dedicated significant effort to pushing forward the frontiers of data science and artificial intelligence (AI) research. Building on the momentum of our recent publication in Nature on AI advancements in tackling infectious diseases, we collaborated closely with teams from Oxford and Copenhagen to launch an ambitious program. Altogether, nearly 50 AI researchers convened in Denmark, working under major global health grants supported by the Wellcome Trust and the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

At the same time, we expanded our training initiatives across Africa. In partnership with the World Bank, we hosted hundreds of fellows for advanced training in genomics surveillance and bioinformatics. In April, we also welcomed delegations from Togo and Côte d’Ivoire, working together to sequence hundreds of genomes during one of the largest dengue outbreaks ever recorded in West Africa.

In response to an increasingly polarized global landscape, I traveled to Switzerland and the United States to collaborate with leading scientists on emerging viral threats. In Geneva, we convened to identify critical gaps and chart a path forward for strengthening genomic surveillance and developing medical countermeasures for some of the world’s most dangerous pathogens. I also spent valuable time in Seattle with one of my longtime mentors and role models, Professor Alan Aderem—co-founder of the world’s first Institute for Systems Biology alongside the legendary Leroy Hood.

Back home in South Africa, we continued progressing toward ISO accreditation for KRISP labs at UKZN and made strides in establishing our new Data Science Headquarters in Stellenbosch. To cap off the month, we were thrilled to welcome another visionary leader, Professor Wim de Villiers, who joined us as Chief Strategic Officer of CERI. Together, we aim to further elevate our impactful work in medical research and capacity development.

All in all, April was filled with important milestones and energy—a month we’re excited to share with you in this latest edition of the gem...