In September 2026, Dr. Vanessa Varaljay, IDI Chief Research Officer and Co-Director of the IDI Genomics and Microbiology Solutions (IDI-GEMS) Laboratory, participated in American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Hill Day in Washington, D.C.
The annual event brings microbiologists from across the country together to engage with congressional offices on issues related to infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, scientific research, workforce development, and public health. During Hill Day, Varaljay joined fellow scientists in discussions with congressional staff from Ohio and other states about the importance of microbiology research and its role in addressing emerging health challenges.
Conversations focused on topics including infectious disease preparedness, antimicrobial resistance, vector-borne diseases, public health surveillance, and the critical need for sustained investment in scientific research. The experience provided an opportunity to connect science and policy while helping ensure that the perspectives of researchers and public health professionals are represented in discussions that shape future research priorities and health policy.
