Meet our Champions

I am a PhD student researching antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial use in companion animals, particularly dogs. I joined the Champions Scheme to promote responsible antimicrobial stewardship, share microbiology with wider audiences, and connect with others passionate about tackling AMR through research and public engagement.

I obtained a degree in Microbiology, masters in Biotechnology and a PhD in Applied Biological Sciences. My research interest broadly focus on microbiome dynamics, global health and tackling AMR. I also engage in citizen science and science communication in a faith setting. As a Champion, I am keen to support the Society's vision and harness microbiology to tackle global challenges. 

I am a PhD researcher investigating the host adaptability of atypical Salmonella through phenotypic, genomic and infection-based approaches. I am passionate about microbiology’s role in public health, food safety and One Health. I joined the scheme to engage local communities, raise awareness of the Society and make microbiology accessible to everyone.

My research focuses on the development and application of new optical microscopy methods to the field of microbiology. My interest in microbiology and imaging has resulted in a varied research background, ranging from bacterial motility and interactions to biofilm architecture and colonisation behaviours. My interdisciplinary research and involvement with the imaging community provide exciting cross-over opportunities for microbiologists interested in microscopy.

I am a fluent Welsh speaker from North Wales but moved to study at Cardiff University, UK. I have experiences within the School of Biosciences Microbiomes, Microbes, and Informatics group and the Medical Microbiology Laboratory at the University Hospital of Wales too. I am set to follow a career in microbiology and to accomplish new challenges by studying bioinformatics. I became a Society Champion to help raise the awareness of microbiology and the threat of antimicrobial resistance but also to network with other microbiologists globally. 

I am an energetic and passionate microbiology lecturer who delivers microbiology modules across various science, nursing, medical and veterinary programmes. Funding from the Society has enabled me to establish The Germ Lab, which delivers workshops, talks and Science Week events that promote microbiology and STEM to school students in our region. I am delighted to participate in the Champions Scheme, to give back to the Society for their support.

I am a PhD holder in Food Microbiology, Associate Professor and a lecturer and researcher at the University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin. My research focuses on microbial communities in food, in particular in milk and dairy products, as well as on zoonotic diseases such as COVID-19, rabies, tuberculosis and toxoplasmosis. I became a Champion to expand my network, share experiences with his colleagues, advance the microbiological sciences in all their dimensions, train young researchers throughout the world and particularly in Africa.

I work as Senior Lecturer at the University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin. I am involved, through my work, in the fight against AMR in Africa. My interests are linked to molecular microbiology, hygiene and public health. Through a collaboration with The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), I have initiated the establishment of an MSc programme in Molecular and Medical Microbiology. I am a founding member of the Research Unit in Applied Microbiology and Pharmacology of natural substances at the Research Laboratory in Applied Biology, University of Abomey-Calavi. Annually, more than 150 young scholars are impacted by this lab’s activities.

I am a lecturer/researcher, with a focus on microbiome science, including beneficial microbes, host-microbe interactions and microbiota-directed therapeutic strategies. I joined the Champions Scheme to share my passion and expertise in microbiology, raise awareness of its importance, advocate for strengthened microbiome research capacity in Africa, and beyond, and connect with microbiologists worldwide.

I am a Master's student in Microbiology at the University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon, with a strong interest in antimicrobial resistance, probiotics and beneficial microorganisms. Through the Champions Scheme, I aim to share my passion for microbiology, engage with communities, and inspire young people to explore careers in science and research.

I am a graduate of microbiology, with a focus on gut microbiota-targeted therapies and host-microbial interactions. I have experience in phenotypic characterisation of bacteria species and infectious diseases. Proficient in molecular biology (Polymerase Chain Reaction, or PCR, and DNA extraction), in vivo mouse models and computational drug design. Seeking collaborations in biotech and bioengineering opportunities.

I am an early career microbiologist from Comoros with a PhD in Fundamental and Industrial Microbiology. My interests include microbial biodiversity, bioactive compounds, antimicrobial resistance and microbial ecology. I joined the Scheme to expand my professional network, foster collaborations, mentor emerging scientists and promote microbiology education and outreach.

As a Professor of Clinical Microbiology, my research focuses on antimicrobial resistance and molecular diagnostics. I joined the Champions Scheme to raise the Society’s profile, by leveraging my academic leadership to foster local engagement, mentor medical students and promote global scientific collaboration within our community.

I am an Assistant Lecturer of Microbiology and Immunology. My research focuses on multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, from molecular pathogenicity to bacteriophage therapy as a novel treatment strategy. I joined the Champions Scheme to connect with the global microbiology community and promote AMR awareness beyond my local environment.

I am deeply committed to advancing clinical microbiology, particularly in low-resource settings, where accurate diagnostics can significantly impact patient care outcomes. As a Microbiology Society Champion, I am proud to be part of a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to promoting the Society's vital work through advocacy and collaboration. My areas of interest are surveillance, molecular diagnostics and bacterial genetics. 

I am an environmental scientist with a growing interest in the application of microbial biotechnology for environmental remediation. I help young scientists gain practical experience and confidence by training them in essential microbiology and molecular biology laboratory skills through fellowships, workshops and training programmes. As a Society Champion, I hope to connect with more professionals and receive support to impact more young scientists in Ghana.

I am a dedicated science communicator and microbiologist, passionate about enhancing public health through digital and media tools. With expertise in microbial analysis, molecular techniques and health systems optimisation, she leads impactful interventions to improve health outcomes and foster stakeholder collaboration. Through the Champions Scheme, I aim to bridge the gap between science, media and public health advocacy to drive meaningful change.

I have been involved in higher education training since 2013. My research focus is on food safety, microbial diversity of indigenous fermented foods, micronutrient bio enrichment of fermented foods and AMR in food systems. I joined the Champions Scheme to lend my voice in communicating the importance of microbiology to rural dwellers and arouse the interest of pupils both at primary and secondary level of how they can build a career in microbiology.

I am an early career microbiologist building my career in public health consulting and health systems strengthening at the Solina Centre for International Development and Research. I work with a team of consultants on the GAVI Guinea Bissau Expanded Program on Immunisation Project, aiming to improve Routine Immunisation Coverage in regions within the country. Beyond health consulting, I enjoy outreach projects and I am passionate about improving microbial literacy in the general public. I joined the Champions Scheme because it connects me with other microbiologists dedicated to promoting microbiology.

I am a Commonwealth Scholar and a Fellow of the West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists. My research interest lies in infectious disease research, with a bias towards immunology and vaccinology. I have worked on many projects involving vaccine development, immunological assessment profiles and antimicrobial resistance. I am passionate about mentorship, research collaborations in microbiology and translating groundbreaking research findings into clinical medical practices to improve patient healthcare.

I am a Pharmaceutical Microbiologist lecturing at the University of Lagos, Nigeria. My broad research interest involves microbial natural products and medicinal plants appropriate for innovative drug formulation, and the use of nanosized drug particles as an alternative form of chemotherapy, in treatments and prevention of infectious diseases. I am a Fellow of the World Academy of Science and a Research Fellow of INTI University Malaysia. I aim to leverage my passion for advocacy to elevate public understanding of microbiology's role in daily life. 

I am an early career public health microbiologist working to address AMR and zoonosis in communities through One Health strategies. I am also passionate about microbial science advocacy and education, which spurred my interest in becoming one of the Society's Champions, to support and promote microbial sciences in Nigeria.

I am a postgraduate student at the University of Abuja, Nigeria, pursuing an MSc in Industrial Microbiology. I am dedicated to advancing food safety and security through research and collaboration. As a Society Champion, I share my passion for microbiology, exploring innovative solutions to harness the potential of microorganisms, with a focus on food safety and security. I aim to contribute to the improvement of public health and sustainable practices, driving positive impact in my community and beyond.

I am a microbiologist dedicated to combating infectious diseases through a One Health approach and vaccine solutions, integrating human, animal and environmental health. I earned a First Class Honors degree in Microbiology from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, in 2018 and have completed my Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's in Leading International Vaccinology Education. My work focuses on vaccine discovery. In 2023, I received the Princess Diana Award for my research and advocacy in AMR and One Health.

I am a veterinarian and early career researcher who works at the University of Abuja Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. I diagnose and treat pets, improving the wellbeing of pets and their owners. I am particularly interested in One Health and infectious diseases, particularly zoonotic tuberculosis. I am dedicated to promoting the One Health perspective on zoonotic tuberculosis through research, and outreach efforts. I joined the Champions Scheme to connect and network with other Champions and to advocate for One Health from a microbiology lens.

I have a PhD in Food Microbiology and am the former Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology at the The Federal Polytechnic Idah, Nigeria. I am an active member of the Microbiology Society, as a member of the Building Communities Committee. I have a wide international research network and am a mentor to many early career scientists. My research areas are food microbiology, food fermentation technology, food safety and quality management systems and bioprocessing. Passionate about fostering positive change, I became a Society Champion to catalyse innovation and bridge gaps in our rapidly evolving world.

I am a microbiologist and a molecular biologist working as a lecturer and researcher at the Nigerian Defence Academy. My research interest is in AMR and mechanisms of resistance and virulence in bacterial pathogens and pathogenic yeasts. I also study clinical and environmental samples to document AMR as well as research on new antimicrobial compounds. As an educator, I have taught science to primary and secondary schools and I have been involved in careers talks and AMR awareness talks in secondary schools. Being a Society Champion, I will leverage on my skills and experience as an educator to share my passion for microbiology and raise awareness on AMR to the public, particularly to young

I am a graduate of microbiology from University of Abuja, Nigeria. As a Society Champion, with more focus on AMR and public health, I’m sure we can advance our understanding of microbial interactions and evolution and also develop innovative solutions for a better future and society. I’ve longed to be a part of the Microbiology Society where I can learn more and I know this Champions Scheme is the right place for me.

I hold a PhD in Microbiology with research experience in antimicrobial resistance, food safety, and One Health. I am currently a Visiting Senior Lecturer at Ajayi Crowther University, Nigeria. I became a Society Champion to share my excitement for microbiology and have promoted microbiology through school visits, events/demonstrations at science festivals and workshops. I joined the Microbiology Society in 2013 and as co-Chair of the Nigerian Applied Microbiologists Network, I support the career development of early career microbiologists.

I am an emerging professional in microbiology, deeply committed to education and community outreach. I have spearheaded initiatives to enhance microbiological sciences in Sudan, founding the 'Sudanese Community of Microbiologists (MicroGen)' and providing career guidance, educational content and practical training. As a Society Champion, I aim to expand my professional network, mentor emerging scientists in Africa and globally; broaden my outreach efforts and advocate for public health. My primary interests include antimicrobial resistance, microbiota and immunity, bacterial genetics and host-pathogen interactions.

I am a recent graduate of Biotechnology from Khulna University, Bangladesh. My undergraduate thesis focused on how human gut bacteria and their derived metabolites act together to keep us healthy. As an RA my current research involves understanding the host-microbiome interactions. Eager to share my research findings and passion for microbiology, I am committed to promoting the incredible opportunities available within the Microbiology Society.

I am the Founding President of the Hong Kong Student Society of Microbiology. My interests include antimicrobial resistance, central nervous system and bloodstream infections (especially Acinetobacter). I joined the Scheme to promote global literacy in infectious diseases among medical students and the wider community.

As a microbiologist, I champion the Microbiology Society to advance research in astrobiology and astromycology. My work focuses on fungal ecology, biodiversity and development under outer-space conditions, aiming to protect planetary environments and explore fungal applications for human needs in space.

I am the Associate Dean for Learning and Teaching and a Senior Associate Professor in the School of Science at Xián Jiaotong-Liverpool University (a Sino-UK International University). I earned my PhD from the University of Madras, India, and has conducted further research in Germany, USA and the UK, in various environmental microbiology research projects. My current research focuses on microbial source tracking, antimicrobial resistance, waterborne/foodborne pathogens, environmental microbiome, microplastics and microbial biofilms. As a Microbiology Society Champion, I am keen on engaging with young and experienced researchers in microbiology and getting involved in outreach activities.

I am an Assistant Professor of Microbiology at Parul University, India, and am dedicated to advancing research at the forefront of clinical microbiology, epidemiology and disease prevention. My research focuses on microbial community characterisation in infections and sepsis, and developing targeted therapeutic interventions to combat AMR. Driven by a passion to mitigate AMR's global threat, I aim to enhance diagnostic methods and prevention strategies. As a Microbiology Society Champion, I leverage my platform to organise events, foster collaborations, and raise awareness about AMR, contributing to a healthier future through education and advocacy.

I obtained my doctorate from the University of Maryland, USA, and subsequently conducted postdoctoral research at Arizona State University, USA. My research focuses on microbial biofilms, AMR and vaccines. I organise microbiology events, as a Society Champion, to promote microbiology and the Society. 

I have a PhD in microbiology, and am the founder of BioGeneVersity®, an e-learning platform dedicated to biosciences. With a focus on antimicrobial resistance, anti-biofilm activities and plant-microbe interactions; I lead pioneering research to tackle global health threats. My expertise also encompasses anti-salmonella interventions, probiotics and microbial food research, crucial for enhancing food safety and human health. My commitment to innovation and education aims to create a healthier, more sustainable world through cutting-edge research and accessible learning opportunities in the field of microbiology.

My lab is situated in a remote village in India. We work on how microbes control soil temperature. We use various rhizosphere engineering approaches to decipher microbe-mediated thermal buffering of soil. In partnership with the Society, I aim to promote microbes as eco-friendly solutions to the climate crisis.

My laboratory investigates the role of microorganisms in the carbon budget, greenhouse gas emissions, global warming and climate change. I am Chairman of the Methanogenic Archaea Subcommittee at the International Committee on Systematics of Prokaryotes (ICSP) and a member of the Microbiology Society’s Building Communities Committee. My aim is to strengthen professional networks and promote awareness of the vital role of microorganisms.

I am an Assistant Professor with a PhD in Medical Microbiology. My research focuses on gut microbiota, the impact of traditional foods on gut health, and antimicrobial resistance. As a Microbiology Society Champion, I am committed to fostering public engagement and raising awareness of the crucial role microbes play in human health.

I have a PhD in fungal ecology from the Free University Berlin, Germany, and MSc in Microbiology from ETH Zurich, Switzerland, and long experience working with non-profit scholarly societies. I am a science writer and award-winning science communicator who uses various media and approaches. I'm excited to be a Society Champion and to collaborate with Indonesian societies in raising awareness on fungi and microbiology.

I am an Associate Professor in Molecular Microbiology and Bioinformatics. My research interests include microbiome profiling, microbial genomics, environmental microbiology and antimicrobial resistance. I joined the Champions Scheme to promote microbiology awareness, engage with the wider community and inspire future microbiologists through outreach and mentoring activities.

I am a microbiologist working at a research-based public health organisation in Nepal, with interests in antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial stewardship. Through this Scheme, I aim to collaborate with diverse experts, expand my scientific knowledge, and connect with peers dedicated to advancing microbiology and addressing global infectious disease challenges.

Namaste everyone, I am Pankaj Chaudhary, Microbiologist at National Public Health Laboratory, Nepal. I am involved in laboratory based surveillance of measles/rubella, Japanese encephalitis, rota virus, dengue virus, environmental surveillance of polio virus. Besides that, I am a Frontline FETP graduate and have been involved in outbreak investigation of diseases including mentoring FETP cohort fellows. Medical mycology is my area of interest and I would like to contribute to the advocacy of fungal diagnostics and surveillance of fungal diseases in Nepal.

I am a medical doctor, Consultant Clinical Microbiologist and Head of the Pathology Laboratory and Infection Control Department. I sit on the World Health Organization’s Strategic and Technical Advisory Group for Antimicrobial Resistance, Mentored Futures AMR Network and PEOPLE AMR Network, as well as being an editor of the Journal of Medical Microbiology. I want to leverage my platform for global AMR awareness.

I am an avid microbiologist. After I completed my PhD and working in oncology, I continued microbial research as a self-funded, independent researcher. Soon, I found myself mentoring dozens of (potential) researchers keen on following in my footsteps. Eventually, I had my first single-author paper published with the Microbiology Society. Ultimately, this led me to join the Champions Scheme. I hope to leverage the resources available via this Scheme to make microbial omics research more accessible to the masses.

I am an Assistant Lecturer and PhD candidate specialising in genomic surveillance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and wastewater-based epidemiology. I joined the Champions Scheme to connect with global microbiologists, share knowledge, and advocate for One Health genomic surveillance and capacity building in West Africa.

I am an early career microbiologist, passionate about harnessing the potential of microorganisms at the interface of microbiology and polymer science. My research focuses on microbial bioproducts, waste bioconversion and biodegradation of polymers. I became a Society Champion to raise awareness about microbiology by communicating its relevance and helping to dispel common misconceptions about microbes.

I am an Assistant Professor at University of Algarve, Portugal. The role as Society Champion will be important to promote the Society through the development of workshops and scientific events, which will increase the network between several generations of microbiology scientists, connect with other Society Champions, participate in new projects and promote career development. Environmental microbiology is my main research area, focused on the study of the microbiomes from different environments, genomics, taxonomy and biological polymers.

I'm passionate about science communication and want to increase awareness of the importance of microbiology. Environmental microbiology and microbial genomics interest me the most and I believe that communicating about them can highlight the role that microbes play on the environment.

I am a Clinical Microbiology Specialist and MD–PhD Researcher. I hold a Master of Medicine (Infection and Immunity) from the University of Sydney, Australia. My doctoral research focuses on antimicrobial resistance in anaerobic infections following Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. I am passionate about integrating into and raising awareness of antimicrobial resistance among rural dairy-farming communities in Switzerland.

I am a lecturer in microbiology at La Trobe University, Australia. As a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, UK, I am passionate about education and teach across all undergraduate year levels. By joining as a Society Champion, I aim to forge meaningful connections, draw inspiration from fellow members and highlight the importance of microbes in our everyday lives. Through science communication and community outreach activities I strive to ignite curiosity and inspire future generations of microbiologists.

My research interest is in microbial genetics and gene expression in a variety of Gram-negative bacteria. I am a Microbiology Society Champion and look forward to engaging with the community, and sharing my enthusiasm for science.

I am a postdoctoral fellow at The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Australia. I completed my PhD in prophage biology at the University of Adelaide, Australia, focusing on Staphylococcus aureus. My primary research focuses on applying phage-based strategies in the biocontrol of bacterial diseases, including those caused by antimicrobial-resistant strains. I am passionate about promoting science and opportunities to the wider community through public engagement programmes.

I am an Associate Professor in Immunology at Charles Sturt University, Australia. I teach microbiology and immunology at undergraduate and postgraduate levels and am a Course (Program) Director at the School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences. My research interests include veterinary and medical microbiology and vaccine development. I have a keen interest in microbiology education and am a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AdvanceHE), UK. I am involved in outreach and mentoring activities, promoting microbiology in the local community.

I have a PhD in Microbiology-Immunology. My 25-year career was mostly in human therapeutics. I wish to share ideas and tips in academia-industry technology transfer. I am studying archaeology in continuing education at the University of Oxford, UK. I am also interested in the history of microbiology, as well as archaeological microbiology. I want to raise awareness about the Society's activities and publications in Eastern Canada, to students and professionals in the innovation ecosystem.

Working towards a Master’s degree in biochemistry at the University of Northern British Columbia, Canada, I hold an honours bachelor of science in microbiology. My research looks to extract possible bioactive therapeutics from fungi native to British Columbia, by isolating and examining several undescribed Biosynthetic Gene Clusters. I became a Champion to share my passion for fungi and spread awareness of some of their potential and potent medicinal qualities.

I am a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Calgary, Canada, studying how gut microbes influence neurodevelopment. I really enjoy talking to others about how the microbiome plays a role in human health, which has led me to do various outreach activities. I became a Society Champion to continue my public engagement projects, to talk to others about research underpinning our advancing understanding of the gut microbiome.

I am a microbiologist working in Mexico, with interests in antimicrobial resistance, metagenomics and science communication. I joined the Champions Scheme to help strengthen our community, promote microbiology outreach and support early career scientists, especially women, in developing their skills and visibility.

My expertise lies in bacteriology, host-pathogen interactions and immuno-pathology in the field of cystic fibrosis and diabetic foot ulcers, with a keen focus on clinical translation research initiatives. As a Champion, I aim to leverage this platform to foster collaborations between microbiologists across the globe and promote the scientific knowledge of the Society to future microbiologists.

I am a Research Scientist with a focus on bacteriophage research. I have greatly benefited from Microbiology Society membership over the years, including meeting my postdoc advisor at the Annual Conference 2017! I became a Society Champion to promote the Society and enhance its visibility as a professional Society and publisher within the US microbiology community.

I am an Assistant Professor of Bacteriology and Principal Investigator in the Department of Microbiology and Parasitology at the Fluminense Federal University in Niterói, Brazil. Currently, my research group focuses on marine microbiology and bacterial (pan)genomics. I hope to publicise the awesome work of the Microbiology Society in Brazil and abroad. As a Champion, I have been working towards bringing more visibility to the LGBTQ+ microbiologists' community.

I am a biochemist with a PhD in microbiology. I started my research working with Salmonella, then moved to viruses such as rotavirus, and completed my PhD focusing on HIV-1. For my postdoc, I returned to bacteria in an R&D project, specifically working with salmonids, aiming to reduce the use of antibiotics. I am currently developing my career in clinical trials. I have always been passionate about scientific communication and outreach. I chose to become a Champion to share my passion for microbiology with the general public and to learn from other Champions about their interests. I would like to encourage new scientists to understand the relevance of scientific societies and engage in science beyond academia and research.