Celebrating science and self-expression: our fourth LGBTQ+ Networking Event at the Microbiology Society’s Annual Conference
Posted on June 6, 2025 by Microbiology Society
June is Pride Month; a month that celebrates and honours those within the LGBTQIA+ community and recognises their ongoing fight for equal rights and acceptance. During this year’s Annual Conference, held in Liverpool, UK, the Microbiology Society’s member-led group, Queer in Microbiology, hosted their fourth LGBTQ+ Networking Event, in collaboration with the collective artists group, Flow.Walk.Drag. Champion, Rebee Penrice-Randal, reflects on their experience at the event and the importance of such events in ensuring microbiology is inclusive and accessible to all.
As Pride Month arrives, we reflect on our fourth LGBTQ+ Networking Event at this year’s Annual Conference in Liverpool; a space where identity, inclusion and scientific curiosity intersect. Over the years, this event has grown into a vital part of Conference; providing a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA+ scientists and allies to connect, share experiences, and explore the ways diversity enriches our field. The group have previously published their experiences of running an inclusive event at conferences.
Organisers of the LGBTQ+ Networking Event
This year, we were thrilled to welcome Flow.Walk.Drag, a collective of artists, microbiologists and drag performers who are pioneering a bold new approach to science communication – using drag as a medium for education and engagement. Their performances brought microbial life to the stage in spectacular fashion, with portrayals of Escherichia coli and Vibrio cholerae that were both entertaining and thought-provoking. With some excellent audience participation, we discussed the importance of washing your hands and your salad leaves, as well as the socio-economic connections with infections.
By blending microbiology with drag performance, Flow.Walk.Drag challenges traditional methods of science outreach, proving that knowledge can be shared in unconventional and deeply engaging ways. Their work embodies the spirit of inclusion, creativity, and breaking boundaries – principles at the heart of both scientific discovery and LGBTQIA+ advocacy.
FLOW.WALK.DRAG at the LGBTQ+ Networking Event
Beyond the engaging performances from E. coli and V. cholerae, the event fostered invaluable discussions about representation in STEMM; the importance of safe spaces and the intersection between science and art. The conversations reinforced the need to continue championing diversity, not just in our research, but in the ways we communicate and collaborate.
FLOW.WALK.DRAG performers at the LGBTQ+ Networking Event
As we celebrate Pride Month, we look back with gratitude on an evening that reminded us that science is at its best when it is accessible, inclusive and enriched by diverse perspectives. We invite all members of the microbiology community to join us in continuing this mission – through conversation, collaboration and unapologetic self-expression.
Find out more about the Society’s equality, diversity and inclusion initiatives.