It’s time to have your say! Applied Microbiology International (AMI) is calling on all members to vote in the Trustee election.

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Voting opens for the AMI Trustee election on May 14. Two candidates will be elected to join our team as Trustees on the AMI Executive Committeeto join AMI’s Trustees from July 2025 for a three year term of office.  Every vote counts in shaping the future of AMI. Members are encouraged to use their votes to select the two people they think should become trustees of AMI.

On 14 May all AMI members will receive an email from Civica (the company we have partnered with to conduct our elections for 2025), which explains how to vote.

The poll will close on Wednesday 4 June 2025 at 5pm and the results will be announced at our Annual General Meeting 4pm on 17 July 2025. 

Our Trustees

Our Trustees play a vital role and are responsible for governing AMI; directing how it is managed and run.

Our elected Trustees are integral to AMI’s role in bringing together the microbiology community. AMI believes that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and personal experiences reflect the diversity of our membership base.   

Voting in the election is a crucial opportunity for members to have their say on how the organisation is run. By voting for individuals to become a trustee, members are selecting people who will collaborate with other trustees on strategic decision-making, ensuring the successful management of AMI.  

The candidates

Shymaa Enany, Egypt

“As a professor of microbiology and immunology with extensive experience in global scientific leadership, I bring a unique perspective to AMI’s Executive Committee. I worked across continents from USA to Japan to Africa engaging in high impact research, publishing in top journals like Nature, Lancet, and Scientific Reports, and leading projects on antimicrobial resistance, proteomics, and diagnostics. I was honored with awards including the ISC Early Career Scientist Award (Africa), TWAS Young Arab Scientist Prize, and Egypt’s State Prize for Women in Health Sciences. Beyond research, I actively serve in international scientific bodies such as the Global Young Academy, OWSD, and INGSA, advocating for science-informed policy, inclusion, and capacity building. As a Global Burden of Disease collaborator and NEF ambassador, I led outreach in science education, especially for women and youth. AMI’s commitment to global collaboration mirrors my values. I aim to strengthen AMI’s visibility in underrepresented regions, support early career scientists, and foster cross border research initiatives. If elected, I will work to ensure microbiology drives meaningful global impact, particularly in low and middle income countries, through inclusive leadership and inspired strategy.”

Afolake Olanbiwoninu, Nigeria

“It is a great privilege for me to nominate myself for the position of trustee of Applied Microbiology International. My passion for applied microbiology, with adequate experiences as a food microbiologist who has been using microbes to solve SDG 2 and 3 for over 11 years, drives my passion to contribute to the success and growth of AMI. AMI’s mission resonates with my commitment to translating research outcomes into tangible solutions that will benefit the global world. If allowed to serve this organization, I promise to promote actively AMI’s mission and values by leveraging my skills as a member of other related organizations to foster more collaboration, inclusivity, and diversity in the Sub-Saharan African community. I will also contribute to sound governance, ethical conduct, and ways to improve the financial stability of the organization. My experience as a member of the Sustainability Committee of the Microbiology Society and the acting director of research, innovation, and linkages of my place of work (Ajayi Crowther University) has equipped me with the skills necessary to effectively serve as a trustee. I pledged my commitment to work in collaboration with the board and members to ensure AMI remains a vibrant and impactful organization.”

Marciane Magnani, Brazil

“As a microbiologist dedicated to applied microbiology, I bring extensive experience in food safety, probiotics, and microbial biotechnology. My research integrates microbiology, biotechnology, and sustainability, aiming to enhance food systems, promote health, and advance microbial applications for real-world impact. With international collaborations spanning Europe, North and South America, I actively engage in interdisciplinary research and innovation. I have served as an editor and reviewer for leading microbiology journals, contributing to the dissemination of high-quality research. My leadership in research projects and collaborations with industry and regulatory agencies underscores my commitment to bridging science and practice. Applied Microbiology International’s mission aligns with my passion for translating microbiological advancements into global solutions. I am committed to fostering knowledge exchange, supporting early-career researchers, and promoting microbiology’s role in sustainability and public health. As a trustee, I will advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, and global engagement to ensure AMI continues to be a leading voice in applied microbiology. My experience, leadership, and dedication position me to contribute effectively to AMI’s vision, strengthening its impact on science, industry, and society. I would be honored to serve and help shape the future of applied microbiology.”

Catherine Rees, UK

“My research originally focused on food borne pathogens, leading to extensive interactions with food producers and an understanding of the importance of fundamental science to improve food safety and food production.  My work developing rapid methods of detection for mycobacterial pathogens has provided an understanding of the challenges facing the agricultural and diary sectors and how applied research can help address their problems.  This has also introduced me to the requirements of the pharmaceutical industry and so I have a wide appreciation of the importance of AMIs mission. Outside the University I have gained experience that can help support AMI.  As a founder of a University spin-out company, I have experience of being a company director and the importance of having an oversight of the overall direction of travel of an organisation.  Working on a UK Government advisory committee (ACMSF) has provided experience of policy development and an insight into emerging issues relating to food safety, relevant to many of the UN SDGs which underpin AMIs mission.  Overall, I feel my knowledge has allowed me to contribute positively to AMI’s executive committee over the last 3 years and I would like to continue to offer this support.”

Walid Omara, UK

“I am standing for election as an AMI Trustee to contribute my experience in microbiology, academic leadership, outreach, and equity in education. As a Senior Lecturer and Course Leader at Sheffield Hallam University, I lead bioscience and pharmacology programmes and supervise PhD and MSc students in microbiology and biotechnology. My research has been published and presented internationally, with a focus on environmental microbiology and microbial applications. I am passionate about public engagement and have led numerous science outreach activities, including STEM workshops, school events, and public science weeks. I actively mentor postgraduate researchers through the YCEDE (Yorkshire Consortium for Equity in Doctoral Education) and ASPIRE mentorship schemes, supporting underrepresented groups in higher education and promoting inclusive research cultures. I hold governance roles in UK schools and colleges, including as Parent Governor and Safeguarding Lead, where I support strategic decision-making and educational standards. My leadership is further demonstrated through fellowships with the Royal Society of Biology, Higher Education Academy, and Institute of Biomedical Science. I am committed to AMI’s mission and values and would be honoured to contribute to its future by promoting excellence, inclusion, and impactful microbiological research and education.”

Nkechi Egbe, Nigeria

“I am a microbiologist with over 20 years of experience lecturing undergraduate and postgraduate students in microbiology and related courses as well as carrying out research in microbiology. I have been a mentor to students and early career researchers, helping them to navigate theirs careers and achieve their goals. With a BSc and MSc in Applied Microbiology and a PhD in Biomolecular Sciences, I have leveraged my technical skills and experiences in multidisciplinary research aimed at using microbiology to proffer solutions to the most challenging problems of Health and environmental sustainability.  During my time as the pioneer Head of the Department of Biotechnology in my institution, I successfully led a diverse team of the departmental staff to achieve significant milestones, driving the department’s growth and success.  I am eager to leverage this experience and leadership skills to contribute to the Society if I am elected to AMI’s trustee thereby, driving progress, inclusivity and excellence in the field and contribute to shaping AMI’s vision and activities. I have also contributed to the promotion of AMI’s objectives in my institution and in my community in Nigeria.”

Om Prakash, India

“I earned my MS, PhD and postdoctoral training in Microbiology from the University of Delhi, Florida State University and Georgia Institute of Technology, USA. Over the past 25 years, I have been doing cutting-edge interdisciplinary research in anaerobic microbiology, climate change, pollutants remediation and public and environmental health. He has served as Curator of the anaerobic facility of the National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS) Pune for 11 years.  Dr. Prakash is working as elected Chairman of the Subcommittee on Methanogenic Archaea of the International Committee on Systematics of Prokaryotes (ICSP) U.K. and elected member of the Community Building Committee of Microbiology Society, London, UK . Received two international Fellowships and worked with Israel in collaboration with the Translational Science Laboratory, College of Medicine, Florida State University, USA. Dr Prakash received the Best Mentor award from Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University (FAMU) and the “Young Achiever Award” from the Institute of Agricultural Science (IAS) BHU. He has contributed >110 articles in high-impact microbiological journals of national and international repute with >4700 citations.  I have been working in the area of applied microbiology for 25 years. These experiences and achievements make me an ideal candidate for this position.”

Bamidele Odumosu, Nigeria

“I am honored to present my candidacy for the position of Executive Trustee. As an Associate Professor of Pharmaceutical Microbiology of the University of Lagos, Nigeria, with years of dedicated research, I have been committed to advancing the field of applied microbiology. My roles as Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Science and a Senate Member of my institution have given me valuable administrative and leadership experience within a large academic institution. My active engagement within the microbiological community includes serving as the  National Publicity Secretary for the Nigerian Society of Microbiology and staff advisor for the Nigerian Association of Microbiology Students. I am currently a Microbiology Society Champion and a pioneer convener of Stakeholders’ meetings on Antimicrobial Resistance in Aquaculture, Nigeria. I have demonstrated my proactive approach to addressing critical global challenges within our field. My research interests in AMR and One Health align directly with the core objectives of AMI and the SDG goals. If elected, my priorities will be to bring innovative perspectives and creative strategies to the society’s governance and sustainable membership growth and diversification, leading to active participation in AMI’s diverse activities and increasing global visibility and impact. ”

Aditya Upadrasta, India/Ireland

“With a background spanning probiotics, bacteriophages, plasma decontamination, and sustainable agriculture, I’ve applied microbiology across academic and industrial settings to address real-world challenges. My work includes developing bacteriophage-insensitive Bacillus strains, detecting airborne pathogens using LAMP-PCR, and advancing sustainable mushroom crop production as a Principal Scientist. Applied Microbiology International’s mission to advance microbiology for global benefit strongly resonates with my values and career path. I bring a cross-disciplinary perspective that connects health, food systems, environmental sustainability, and biotechnology. I am committed to fostering innovation, supporting early-career scientists, and promoting inclusive, collaborative scientific communities. As a trustee, I will advocate for applied research that bridges science, policy, and public impact. I believe in amplifying underrepresented voices in microbiology and ensuring equitable access to microbiological knowledge and opportunities worldwide. AMI plays a vital role in shaping the future of microbiology, and I would be honored to contribute my experience, insight, and passion to its strategic direction and community.”

Fabio Fiorino, Italy

“I am a microbiologist committed to leveraging research for global health impact, particularly in the context of vaccine immune responses to vaccination and infection. I’m currently working on murine models of infection with non-typhoidal Salmonella strains, in order to study vaccine immune protection. My current work explores how coinfections shape immune responses to non-typhoidal Salmonella, with a focus on neglected and vulnerable populations. I believe in the power of applied microbiology to tackle real-world challenges and am driven by a desire to foster international collaboration and knowledge exchange. As a trustee, I would bring not only scientific expertise but also a strong commitment to inclusivity, early-career support, and science communication. I have experience engaging with interdisciplinary teams and advocating for equitable access to scientific resources. I would work to enhance AMI’s role as a global platform for microbiologists, ensuring its values of integrity, innovation, and collaboration are upheld. I am excited by AMI’s mission and ready to contribute to its strategic vision, helping bridge the gap between research and societal benefit. I would be honoured to serve and help shape the future of applied microbiology together with a dynamic and diverse community.”

Joana Falcao Salles, Brazil/Netherlands

“I strongly support using microbial solutions to address environmental and biotechnological problems. However, to effectively apply these solutions, we need to examine them from several microbial perspectives. Among the numerous potential microbial viewpoints, my contribution will be from an ecological perspective, where I address the possible solutions through the lens of ecological theories. I am particularly interested in microbial solutions that can help mitigate climate change, as well as various microbiome-based strategies that can be used to improve the sustainability of agricultural production. Besides my scientific contribution, as a female professor with dual nationality (Brazilian and Dutch), I represent several minorities, thus aiding AMI in ensuring inclusivity across the globe through my contacts. Finally, as a member of the executive board of the International Society for Microbial Ecology (ISME), with a mandate that ends in August 2026, I can act as a bridge between AMI and ISME. ”

Marianne Haines, Australia/Canada

“I feel a personal responsibility to lift others into this incredible field, to foster understanding of our world, and to question and reconceive the way we live in it. I believe applied microbiology holds immense, largely untapped potential to improve the planet for all.My enthusiasm is supported by a solid education in microbiology and broad experience in academia, startups, nonprofits, societies, conference organising, and science communication. I hold a BSc (microbiology and biochemistry), and a PhD in applied microbiology with a sprinkle of geoscience (supported by a General Sir John Monash Foundation scholarship for emerging Australian leaders). My research has spanned microbial fuel cells, photobioreactors, and alkaline soda lakes. Currently, I’m Senior Scientist at Brokkr Mineral Resources, using microbes to improve the sustainability of nickel and cobalt  (battery metals) extraction. I’ve published five first-author papers, reviewed journal articles, and presented science through podcasts, radio, TV, public talks, and more. I remain committed to outreach at all levels—from playdough with grade 2s to leading careers in science seminars for 100+ high schoolers.With logic, patience, and a collaborative spirit, I would be honoured to help lead AMI forward on its board of trustees while learning from those serving alongside me.”

Guerrino Macori, Italy/Ireland

“With extensive experience in academia, industry, and regulatory environments across Europe, notably Ireland and Italy, I bring comprehensive microbiological expertise and strategic insight to AMI’s trustee role. My research on pathogenic bacteria genomics, microbial ecology, and advanced bioinformatics integration uniquely positions me to support AMI’s vision of impactful applied microbiology.I have actively promoted equality, diversity, and inclusion through governance contributions at the Microbiology Society, specifically addressing the needs of historically marginalised communities. My leadership roles in organising inclusive events and initiatives, such as LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent socials, reflect my commitment to fostering welcoming professional communities.Additionally, I have robust experience in education, mentoring, international collaboration, and public health partnerships, essential for AMI’s global outreach and community-building initiatives. My goal as a trustee is to enhance AMI’s strategic direction, emphasising inclusive governance, scientific excellence, and practical microbiological applications beneficial for society.I will bring dedication, creativity, and collaborative spirit to this trustee position, proactively supporting AMI’s mission, expanding its global influence, and ensuring diverse representation within microbiology. I am looking forward to apply my diverse experiences and  commitment to AMI’s continued growth and success.”

Helen Onyeaka, UK

“I am applying for the role of Trustee of Applied Microbiology International because I believe in the transformative power of microbiology to address the world’s most urgent challenges. As an academic and industry-focused microbiologist, my work centres on sustainable food systems, biotechnology, and real-world microbial innovations. I was honoured to receive the Basil Jarvis Food Security and Innovation Award, recognising my contribution to advancing food security and safety through innovative microbiological solutions. I am passionate about AMI’s mission to foster global, interdisciplinary collaboration, and I share its commitment to inclusivity, education, and impactful science. I bring a strong international perspective, having led cross-border research collaborations, mentored emerging scientists, and actively promoted science for societal benefit. If elected, I will bring energy, strategic insight, and a collaborative spirit to the Executive Committee. I am particularly committed to amplifying diverse voices in microbiology, supporting early-career researchers, and advancing science-informed policy that aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. AMI’s role in shaping the future of applied microbiology is vital, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to its continued success and global influence. ”

Ifeoma Elizabeth Dan-Ogosi, UK

”I am standing for election as a trustee of Applied Microbiology International because I am committed to harnessing the transformative potential of microbiology for public health and societal advancement. My public health background provides unique insight into how microbiology and health disciplines can synergistically address global challenges, such as disease prevention and environmental sustainability. My recent engagement with the Minoritised Life Scientist Forum rekindled my profound passion for microbiology and its far-reaching impact. As someone who experienced challenges as a microbiology student, I am deeply motivated to transform learning and professional development pathways, particularly for underrepresented and early-career scientists. I wholeheartedly embrace AMI’s core values of inclusivity, collaboration, and global impact. If elected trustee, I will champion equitable access to knowledge, amplify diverse perspectives, and create opportunities for microbiologists to excel in interdisciplinary environments. I am fully prepared to fulfil all trustee responsibilities, including attendance at both online and in-person meetings. I would be honoured to help shape the future of applied microbiology, ensuring the field remains relevant, inclusive, and responsive to the world’s most pressing challenges.”

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