The individuals involved in FEMS and the FEMS MICRO Ljubljana 2027: Congress & Exhibition share a deep commitment to the transformative power of microbiology in addressing global challenges. Central to this effort is the Programme Committee, a diverse group of experts representing 13 countries, whose dedication helps shape a forward-looking and impactful congress. We are incredibly fortunate to have such devoted volunteers contributing to our cause.

Guided by the theme Growing Microbial Futures, the Programme Committee plays a pivotal role in designing the scientific programme. They define the topic tracks, identify and invite leading keynote speakers, and contribute their expertise to the review of abstract submissions. Together, they ensure that FEMS MICRO 2027 reflects the latest advances in microbiology while fostering innovation, collaboration, and inspiration for the future of the field.

• Antonio Ventosa, FEMS President, University of Seville, Spain (Chair, Programme Committee)

• Hilary Lappin-Scott, Cardiff University, United Kingdom (Chair, Steering Group)

• Urška Jamnikar Ciglenečki, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia

• Paul Cos, Antwerp University, Belgium (Health Horizons lead)

• Anna Detman-Ignatowska, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics PAN, Poland

• Ivica Dimkic, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Biology, Serbia

• Evelyn Doyle, University College Dublin, Ireland

• Cecilia Flocco, DSMZ, Germany (Vice-Chair, Steering Group)

• Rafael Giraldo, National Centre for Biotechnology (CNB-CSIC), Spain

• Max Häggblom, Rutgers University, USA (Eco Innovations lead)

• Marina Šantić, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Croatia

• Michael Sauer, OMV AG, Austria (Biotechnology lead)

• Clare Taylor, Edinburgh Napier University, United Kingdom (Engagement & Growth lead)

• Karen Trchounian, Yerevan State University, Armenia

• Christiaan van Ooij, Keele University, United Kingdom

• Cynthia Whitchurch, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore