About

The Microbes and Social Equity (MSE) Working Group is more than just a collective of researchers; it is a movement that brings together science, society, and equity to create lasting impact. What started as a simple question in 2019 has evolved into a global effort to understand how microbiomes—the microscopic ecosystems that surround and live within us—intersect with societal inequities and shape the world we live in.

At MSE, we explore the dynamic interplay between microbiomes, human health, environmental sustainability, and social equity. Through groundbreaking research, collaborative projects, and thought-provoking dialogues, we aim to bring the unseen to light: how invisible communities of microbes are inextricably linked to human lives and broader societal structures.

Our Journey

In 2019, Professor Sue Ishaq’s curiosity sparked a conversation that would soon grow into a dynamic international research community. Since then, the MSE Working Group has evolved into an interdisciplinary platform where ideas flow freely across fields from microbiology and anthropology to environmental science and policy. Together, we’ve co-created knowledge and tools to explore some of the most pressing questions of our time, including how microbes affect health outcomes across different populations and how environmental stressors influence microbial ecosystems.

Read more about the origins of MSE on our Who We Are page.

Connecting Science and Society

Our work thrives at the intersection of science and society. We don’t just study microbiomes in isolation, we investigate how social, economic, and environmental disparities affect microbial exposures and health outcomes. By addressing these issues, we can develop science-based solutions that benefit all communities, especially those historically marginalized.

MSE’s approach is to connect researchers, policymakers, and the public in conversations that lead to actionable insights. Whether it's through our speaker series, symposia, or published research, we bring together diverse perspectives to shape the future of microbiome science and social equity.

Explore our latest studies and initiatives in the Research section.

Looking Forward: Our Vision for the Future

The future of the MSE Working Group is grounded in collaboration, inclusion, and global reach. We envision a world where scientific research is used to reduce disparities in health, education, and access to resources, where communities are empowered to shape the policies that affect their lives.

Our mission continues to grow, and so does our community. Whether you're a researcher, a community leader, or simply someone passionate about equity, we invite you to join us in this important work. Together, we can create a future where microbiomes and social equity are fully understood and respected.

Learn more about how we’re creating impact through collaboration on our Partners page.