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About us

A society rooted in the region

MEsME brings together scientists who study microbial life across the Middle East and North Africa, and puts the region’s unique ecosystems at the centre of global research.

Our vision

The vision of MEsME is to position the MENA region as a leading hub of microbial ecology and biotechnology, leveraging its unique ecosystems and resources. The society aims to propel research & development to address global challenges such as water, food, energy, and health to promote conservation and sustainability.

Our mission

The mission of MEsME is to promote microbial ecology and biotechnology research across the MENA region by fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among scientists and stakeholders. The society seeks to connect researchers with common interests, promote the exploration of the region’s unique ecosystems, and support the education and training of next-generation microbiologists.

Pink and orange soft corals with shoals of small reef fish

What we do

Our activities

As set out in our bylaws, MEsME is a non-profit organization. Its activities include, but are not limited to:

Two researchers in waders taking a sediment core among mangrove roots at dawn, a small boat behind them
  • Organizing scientific conferences, workshops, and symposia
  • Publishing newsletters and other educational material
  • Facilitating grants or fellowships to support microbial ecology and biotechnology research
  • Promoting public awareness of the importance of microbial ecology and biotechnology
  • Fostering collaboration among microbial ecologists and biotechnologists in the region

Our story

From Abu Dhabi to Muscat

  1. 01 · 17 May 2024

    Founded at NYU Abu Dhabi

    The Founding Committee meets in Abu Dhabi to establish the society. The bylaws are drafted on the day and approved unanimously by the Founding Committee.

  2. 02 · First two years

    Inaugural Executive Board

    The Founding Committee appoints the first Executive Board: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Communication Officer.

  3. 03 · 11–15 October 2026

    Official launch in Muscat

    MEsME is formally launched at the 4th International Conference of Microbial Ecology and Biotechnology, Muscat, Oman.

Leadership

The Executive Board

Appointed by the Founding Committee for the society’s first two years. Thereafter the Board is elected by the members.

Founding Committee

Our founding members

The foundation of MEsME was laid on 17 May 2024 at NYU Abu Dhabi. We are honoured to be guided by our distinguished founding members, listed here in alphabetical order.

Be part of what comes next

Apply for membership