Abstract
On February 16–20, 2025, the international conference "CRISPR2025" took place in Christchurch, New Zealand, connecting 242 participants from 26 countries to discuss the latest advances in CRISPR-Cas research. Here, we present highlights from 42 talks and 126 posters, spanning fundamental CRISPR-Cas biology, applied biotechnology, new discoveries on non-CRISPR phage defense systems, and questions around ecology and nuclease evolution. Overall, CRISPR2025 provided scientists with insights into cutting-edge research in this expansive field while also fostering networking, establishing partnerships, and nurturing collaborative relationships.