Hall 1

Individuals most likely to pursue microbiology research careers are predominantly familiar with scientific networks.  The length of time and magnitude of personal investment required to qualify for advanced research training in microbiology, pathogen genomics, or indeed any biological or molecular science, is a disincentive to exploration by the less well connected, who may therefore never know if microbiology is right for them.  Promoting access to microbiology and genomics for the curious and motivated, irrespective of background, is typically viewed as a broader impact service to scientists from under-represented groups, and the future of our field.  It is indeed both of these things; but I argue that the very body of knowledge that underpins our science is just as much a roadblock to new advances as it is a hurdle for entry into the field.  Thus, researchers unencumbered by what we know can bring extraordinary creativity that we ourselves might otherwise not access.  Individuals with little or no traditional microbiology expertise can work collaboratively with us on citizen science projects; in discovery-based courses; or as collaborators within or with our research groups to shape and shift our field.  Those that do not remain in microbiology can use the experience to communicate the nature and methods of our science to a broader audience than we can reach.  Inviting so-called ‘underprepared’, or differently-prepared, scientists into our scientific spaces overcomes both entry and knowledge barriers to discovery, something that lies behind some of our own group’s boldest and best bacteriology.