MSE Speaker Series 2025

Bridging Microbiology and Social Equity

Join us for the 2025 Microbes and Social Equity Speaker Series, where leading voices in microbiology and social equity come together to explore the interconnectedness of microbes, society, and our environment. Hosted virtually every last Friday of the month, from January to December 2025, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM ET. Each session includes a dynamic presentation followed by a lively discussion and social hour.

This MSE Speaker Series is hosted by Sue Ishaq, Associate Professor at the University of Maine, and made possible through the generous financial support of the University of Maine Institute of Medicine and the UMaine Cultural Affairs/Distinguished Lecture Committee, enabling a year-long exploration of the connections between microbiomes and social equity.

January 31, 2025: Microbial Diversity and Climate Resilience

Speaker: TBC

This talk delves into how soil microbiomes respond to global climate change and their role in supporting ecosystem resilience. Explore strategies for managing soil health in the face of climate challenges and the importance of microbial diversity in sustaining life.

January 31, 2025 | 12:00 PM ET

February 28, 2025: Intersectional Approaches to Microbial Health

Speaker: TBC

This talk explores how intersecting social factors like race, socioeconomic status, and access to healthcare shape microbial health outcomes. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader social and environmental contexts that influence microbiome diversity and exposure. By adopting an intersectional lens, the discussion aims to uncover how multiple layers of inequality impact microbial health, leading to more inclusive research and interventions that address disparities.

February 28, 2025  | 12:00 PM ET

March 28, 2025: Navigating the Social Dimensions of Antibiotic Resistance

Speaker: TBC

This session explores the complex social, cultural, and economic factors driving antibiotic resistance. Learn how community engagement and public health initiatives can address this global issue, alongside the role of policy in shaping access to antibiotics.

March 28, 2025 | 12:00 PM ET

Why Attend?

  • Discover the latest findings in microbiome research and their real-world applications.
  • Engage with experts from diverse fields like anthropology, public health, and environmental science.
  • Connect with peers and speakers during our post-talk social hours.

How to Join:

  • Step 1: Click on any of the "Book Now" links to sign up for individual sessions.
  • Step 2: Receive your Zoom link via email.
  • Step 3: Attend the talk and stay for the optional social hour to continue the conversation.

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates about upcoming talks, recordings, and special announcements. Don’t miss out on this chance to deepen your understanding of the intersection between microbes and social equity.

For any questions or assistance with registration, please reach out to [email protected].