THE University of the West Indies’ (The UWI) Professor of Molecular Biology Paul Brown was recently elected to the Council on Microbial Sciences (COMS).

His term in office commenced on July 1, 2022, and will run until June 30, 2025. Prof Brown’s successful candidacy represents an opportunity for him to serve the breadth of the society of over 30,000 members across the globe, and to be a representative for diverse microbial scientists across the world. This post is one of 10 elected positions on COMS which has a composition of close to 95 members.

The council is the strategy arm within the governance framework of the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) and is the key connection between ASM members and leaders. It is also the arm through which members can get involved with their society. Working in partnership with the board of directors, the CEO and staff, COMS monitors new developments in microbial sciences and assists with the development of innovative ways to move the field and ASM forward. The council supports ASM through setting priorities for society; identifying upcoming opportunities in the microbial sciences, and identifying scientific trends to ensure effective programmes and activities.

Acknowledging the importance of his new position, Prof Brown said it is a great achievement that recognises the work that has been done, and the potential for even greater service. This appointment, he said, represents the leadership role that Jamaica and the Caribbean can play in the affairs of the international community and is an encouragement for all to do their best and strive to achieve their goals.

Prof Brown explained that in terms of time commitment, members of COMS form working groups and task forces, which meet virtually throughout the year. Full participation, he continued, requires reading background material in advance and collegial discussions, and active work. This job, he noted, requires a level of awareness of the ASM strategic plan, Society activities, and responsiveness to developing trends across the spectrum of the microbial sciences.

“Involvement with COMS allows for councillors to work with diverse groups of people and to recognise the immense value that the different perspectives and cultures bring to bear within an organisation. COMS also supports diversity, equity, and inclusion. It recognises that individuals interested in the microbial sciences will have similar and diverse needs and that all require both a voice and access to resources to further their goals and dreams in the microbial sciences,” Prof Brown said.

Prof Brown shared some of the benefits to UWI Mona students and the wider group of Caribbean microbial scientists, one of which is support for senior undergraduate and postgraduate students who demonstrate an interest in the microbial sciences and seek mentorship in navigating their career trajectory (via ASM Future Leaders Mentoring Fellowships). Microbiology at The UWI, he said, has benefited through the ASM-derived undergraduate curriculum and teaching/research in the microbial sciences.

Prof Brown further explained that “students will also benefit from support via the Science Festival Grants programme which offers up to US$500 to be used towards an activity at a local science festival or conference. This is facilitated through the senior or Young ASM Ambassador to Jamaica. Additionally, there is support for Student Chapter Funding Proposals. The UWI Mona Campus has an active student chapter, operated through the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, and led by a senior undergraduate student in microbiology.” Because of his previous role in the establishment of this society, he acts as the staff advisor.

“There is also support for undergraduate microbiology lecturers via the ASM Conference for Undergraduate Educators. This annual conference brings together undergraduate microbiology lecturers to share pedagogy skills and gain insight into student-based research activities that can buttress learning in the discipline,” Prof Brown said.