We have commenced the creation of a network of honorary FEMS Ambassadors in selected non-European countries. These Ambassadors will help to promote our mission, vision, and activities of spreading microbiology knowledge, and connecting microbiologists and microbiological societies for benefit of humankind.

Vaso Taleski, FEMS Director of Events & Internationalization, invited the first three new FEMS Ambassadors on behalf of the FEMS Board of Directors and we are delighted that all three accepted, and have been appointed. All are experienced microbiologists, of recognized standing in their microbiology community, who can act as advocates for FEMS beyond the existing European network. All are invited to attend the FEMS2019 Congress in Glasgow (7-11 July).

The three new ambassadors represent the nation states of China, Japan, and South Korea for a period of 3 years:

Prof. Lixin Zhang (China) – Director of State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Biotechnology, East China University of Science and Technology. He is also Part-time Professor of Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IMCAS).

Prof. Ken-ichi Yoshida (Japan) –  Professor of Applied Microbiology, Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, Japan.

Prof. Sang-Ki Rhee (South Korea) – Chair Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Soon Chun Hyang University, Korea; Chairman, National Organizing Committee IUMS, 2020 Daejeon, Korea; Vice President, International Union of Microbiological Societies (IUMS).

FEMS Ambassadors share our work and vision with microbiologists in their countries. Ambassadors use their contacts, communication skills and enthusiasm, supported by us to highlight the activities of FEMS and encourage collaboration and participation in these activities. Ambassadors represent FEMS at scientific meetings and among microbiologists, encouraging connections and collaborations.