Speakers
Research Presentations
In this session, Dr. Kieran O’Doherty will present the foundational concept of microbiome stewardship, focusing specifically on host-associated microbiomes. He will explore how stewardship principles can guide the ethical management and protection of microbial communities within human and animal hosts. Drawing from his extensive research in public deliberation and governance, Dr. O’Doherty will examine the intersections of microbiome science, social values, and policy-making. Attendees will gain insights into the critical role of host microbiomes in health and well-being, as well as how ethical frameworks can ensure responsible practices in research, healthcare, and public policy.
Dr. Kieran C. O’Doherty is professor in the department of psychology at the University of Guelph, where he directs the Discourse, Science, Publics research Group. His research focuses on the social and ethical implications of science and technology and public engagement on science and technology. He has published on such topics as data governance, vaccines, human tissue biobanks, the human microbiome, salmon genomics, and genetic testing. A particular emphasis of his research is on theory and methods of public deliberation, in which members of the public are involved in collectively developing recommendations for the governance of science & technology. Recent edited volumes include Psychological Studies of Science and Technology(2019) and The Sage Handbook of Applied Social Psychology (2019). He is editor of Theory & Psychology.
He is a founding member of the Microbes and Social Equity (MSE) working group, contributing to the interdisciplinary dialogue at the intersection of microbiology, public health, and social justice.