On 11^th May 2017, the Luxembourg Society for Microbiology (LSfM) held its first national conference, the “1st Luxembourg Microbiology Day”, at the “Laboratoire national de santé” in Dudelange. It was an occasion for its members, as well as prospective members, to meet, present and discuss their research and the impacts on science, health and economy, as well as establish new collaborations.

Three talks opened the first part of the scientific programme of the day. The presentation from Prof Paul Wilmes (Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg) focused on the latest results in the field of microbiome research. The second talk by Dr Guy Colling (National Museum of Natural History), tackled the importance of microorganisms in museum collections. The first part of the scientific programme was closed by the presentation of Dr Philippe Delfosse (Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology), who discussed the importance of learning how to work with microorganisms in order to use them for different agricultural activities and ensure a circular economy.

The second part of the scientific programme was dedicated to the LSfM members’ activities. Eight young researchers presented their work during the 5-minute flash presentations. Among these were Dr Maude Pauly and Dr Virginie Fievez from LIH’s Department of Infection and Immunity. The two best speakers were rewarded: Linda Wampach and Dr Anna Heintz-Buschart, both from the Eco-Systems Biology group of the Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, where selected by the audience for the awards for the best oral presentation. The day ended with the general assembly of the LSfM.

This first Luxembourg Microbiology Day was a great success with over 70 participants from the society, which now counts 100 members. 'This is significant for Luxembourg and reflects the critical mass of scientists already performing microbiological research in Luxembourg. Luxembourg is now poised to enhance its international visibility in microbiology even further through the new synergies which will be catalysed by the society', said Prof Paul Wilmes, Vice-President of the LSfM.

The aim of the Luxembourg Microbiology Day was to convey the spirit of the LSfM launched one and a half year ago, that is, the promotion of scientific excellence and continuous exchange between the research sector and the economy in Luxembourg, in an environment favourable for collaborations. LIH is represented in the board of LSfM by Dr Carole Devaux (Department of Infection and Immunity) and Dr Conny Mathay (IBBL - Integrated BioBank of Luxembourg).

LSfM contact:

Dr Christian Penny, Secretary General

Tel: +352 661 332 988

E-mail : secretary@microbiology.lu

More information: http://microbiology.lu/