Applied Microbiology International has welcomed Professor Les Baillie as the latest member of its Board of Trustees. Professor Baillie was elected following an online ballot of AMI’s members which was held between 27 May 2026 and 17 June 2026. 

tRUSTEES

As Professor of Microbiology at Cardiff University, he brings more than 40 years of experience across healthcare, defence science, and academia. 

His career began with a microbiology degree from the University of Plymouth, followed by a decade in the NHS as a clinical microbiology laboratory officer. During this time, he also served in the Territorial Army—an experience that sparked a lifelong interest in biodefence—and completed an MPhil in Pseudomonas genetics. 

Career highlights

He went on to join the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) at Porton Down, where he led the Anthrax Research Group. His work contributed to the development of a second-generation vaccine and the sequencing of the B. anthracis genome, forming the basis of his PhD from the University of Sheffield. He later worked in the United States with the University of Maryland and the US Navy, leading programmes in biodefence medical countermeasures. 

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Today, Professor Baillie continues to lead innovative research at Cardiff, exploring spore-forming bacteria, bacteriophages, and natural antimicrobial compounds, particularly from honey. Alongside his research, he serves as the UK Government’s anthrax subject matter expert and a CBRN advisor to DEFRA. 

Passionate about inspiring the next generation, he founded the award winning Pharmabees project—bringing science to life for young people through bees, sustainability, and discovery. 

Farewell and thank you

Meanwhile, AMI has bid a fond farewell and thank you to Professor Diane Purchase who is leaving the Board of Trustees.  Diane is a Professor of Environmental Biotechnology at Middlesex University and has a keen interest in safeguarding and improving the environment.  

As an Executive Member of the Committee of the Heads of Environmental Sciences (CHES) in the UK, a Fellow of the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA), Diane engages in the advancement of environmental microbiology through teaching, knowledge exchange, research and scholarship in the UK and international higher education sectors. 

Diane’s research interest focuses on the role of biotechnology in pollution control and bioremediation.

Diane is a strong supporter of AMI, having served in the Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and is currently the Co-Chair of the Healthy Land Advisory Group.

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