Manchester Scientist wins Communications Award

Professor Joanna Verran has received an influential award in recognition of her vital work conveying the principles of applied microbiology to the general public. A Professor of Medical Microbiology at Manchester Metropolitan University who has spent many years studying the interaction between micro-organisms and surfaces, Professor Verran has now been awarded the Society for Applied Microbiology (SfAM) Communications Award. She has used a range of

different activities, in particular reading and discussing works of popular fiction, to make the subject easily understood by non-scientists. Professor Verran has been innovative in her approach to microbiology education and public engagement and is the founder of the “Bad Bugs Book Club” which met during the recent SfAM Summer Conference in Dublin. An engaging speaker Jo is a regular contributor to TV news and features programs and has worked with SfAM and other organisations on countless public engagement events at science festivals across the UK. According to the Society for Applied Microbiology's Honorary Vice President, Professor Martin Adams: “Jo's wide knowledge and

infectious enthusiasm have made her an outstanding public communicator and ambassador for applied microbiology. This award is well deserved recognition of her innovative work in this area. Long may it continue.