The Microbiology Society has formed a new Members Panel to promote equality and diversity in the microbiology community.
Pirbright’s Dr Kevin Maringer, group leader of the Flavivirus Transmission and Pathogenesis group, will co-chair the Members Panel which will ensure that equality, diversity, and inclusion matters are considered at the highest level of the Society’s governance.
The panel is made up of members from across the globe, and includes Black, Asian, and other ethnic minorities, members who identify as LGBTQ+, and members who have disabilities or long-term conditions. It also includes members from lower socioeconomic backgrounds or who are the first of their family to attend university, and other underrepresented groups whose personal experiences have impacted their careers in microbiology.
Dr Kevin Maringer said: “I’m excited to work with a diverse and enthusiastic group of people as part of the Members Panel, and hope that during my tenure as inaugural Co-Chair we can make a tangible difference by finding new ways for the Microbiology Society to support and amplify the voices of members from underrepresented groups. The formation of the Members Panel will also ensure that a diverse set of experiences and opinions is captured as the Society continues to develop and expand their diversity and inclusion initiatives.”
Pirbright recognises that creating an inclusive culture is essential for sharing knowledge and ideas that contribute to our scientific excellence. To promote the importance of such diversity, we have several initiatives that take place throughout the year to celebrate equality and inclusivity across the Institute, as well as a ‘Rainbow Network’ LGBTQ+ social group organised and coordinated by our staff.
