Overview

As part of our commitment to developing, expanding and strengthening the vast networks and opportunities available to our members and local communities, the Microbiology Society is pleased to announce the Biotic Control of Bacteria meeting, to be hosted by Microbial Genomics Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Dr Conor Meehan (Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK).

With the rise of antibiotic resistance worldwide, there is a pressing need for novel ways to manipulate and control the growth and presence of bacteria. This meeting will bring together researchers in this field, including those working on bacteriophages, bacterial antagonism, microbial warfare, predatory microbes, and microbiome manipulation. With a focus on genetic aspects of these works, the workshop aims to be a networking and scientific exploration venue for next-generation control of bacterial pathogens and microbiomes.

In addition to the scientific content itself, the attendees will have the opportunity to join discussions with members of the Microbial Genomics Editorial Board and get further insights into the publishing process, as well as information about opportunities to get involved, like serving as early-career reviewers or on editorial boards. Being situated in Nottingham with multiple large research-intensive universities in close proximity, it will provide great opportunities to discover important research taking place in the local area and network with other local researchers interested in the control of bacterial growth.

This event is led by Microbial Genomics a journal published by the Microbiology Society that pioneers all areas of genome research spanning the breadth of microbial life including viruses, bacteria, archaea and microbial eukaryotes. Content ranges from comparative and functional genomics of model organisms to population-scale evolution, epidemiology and microbiome studies, and real-world genomics applications with clinical, veterinary or environmental relevance.

Organising committee:

Dr Conor Meehan (Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK)
Dr Maria Rosa Domingo-Sananes (Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK)
Dr David Negus (Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK)

Programme

A full programme will be confirmed in due course.

The programme of two invited keynote speakers for the meeting includes:

  1. Professor Martha Clokie (University of Leicester, UK)
  2. Dr Julie McDonald (Imperial College London, UK)
Registration

Registration for the Biotic Control of Bacteria meeting is now open.

Register Now

Registration fees

Tier

Rate

Microbiology Society Member

£99

Non-member

£129

What's included in your registration fee?

  • Scientific talks discussing the latest local research in bacterial microbial genomics.
  • An opportunity to present your work and network with local researchers, the Microbial Genomics Editorial Board and Society staff.
  • An opportunity to find out more about getting involved with the Society and publishing in our journals during networking sessions.
  • Buffet lunch.
  • Tea and coffee breaks.

The registration deadline for the Biotic Control of Bacteria meeting is 8 August 2026. 

Registration confirmation

Upon registration, you should receive an automated confirmation email. Please contact [email protected] if, after 24 hours, this has not been received.

Cancellations

Refunds are not provided, however substitutions of attendees can be made at any time before the event by contacting [email protected].

Abstracts

Abstract submission

We are accepting abstract submissions from members of the bacterial microbial genomics research community for a limited number of offered oral presentations and flash talks at this event. The abstract submission deadline is Wednesday 1 July 2026.

Submit Abstracts

If you have any questions regarding abstract submission, please email [email protected].

Microbial Genomics Best Flash Talk Prize

Microbial Genomics is pleased to provide the Best Talk Prize to a flash talk presenter at the Biotic Control of Bacteria meeting. All flash talk presentations from early-career speakers given at the meeting are automatically entered for the prize.

Venue, Accommodation and Travel

This meeting will take place at:

Dryden Centre
Nottingham Trent University (City Campus)
Dryden Street

Nottingham, NG1 4FZ

Find the venue.

Accessibility and inclusivity 

Accessibility information can be found via this link.

Please ensure you notify us of any dietary or accessibility requirements on your registration form to ensure these are catered for.

Travelling by public transport

The trains come to Nottingham train station and from there the tram or number 11 bus will take you to Dryden centre.