Could your institution host Microbial Solutions for a Changing World in 2027?
Applied Microbiology International (AMI) is inviting the global applied microbiology community to submit bids to host the Sustainable Microbiology Research Conference (SMRC), Microbial Solutions for a Changing World, in 2027.
We welcome proposals from AMI members, Advisory Group members, Global Ambassadors, Research Networks and the wider AMI community, as well as editors, authors, reviewers and readers of Sustainable Microbiology, and others working across applied microbiology.
Microbial Solutions for a Changing World forms part of a developing series of international research conferences connected to AMI’s journal, Sustainable Microbiology. Each conference focuses on an area of applied microbiology and sustainability aligned with AMI’s strategic goals, bringing together researchers, industry, government and policymakers to explore microbiological solutions to global sustainability challenges.
The inaugural Microbial Solutions for a Changing World conference was held at Monash University, Melbourne, in November 2025, chaired by Professor Chris Greening and bringing together over 150 participants. AMI is now looking for a new institution and programme committee to host the next conference in 2027.
SMRC: Microbial Solutions for a Changing World
Strategic focus: Food Security
The scientific focus for this Microbial Solutions for a Changing World conference will be Food Security, one of AMI's six strategic goals and aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger.
We are looking for proposals for a focused scientific challenge within Food Security around which the conference can be built. The proposed focus should address an important or emerging challenge where applied microbiology can contribute solutions, while being broad enough to support a diverse international scientific programme.
Potential areas might include food safety, new microbial foods, sustainable food production, food loss and spoilage, resilient agriculture, fermentation and food-system microbiomes, but we particularly want to hear from the community about the challenges they believe warrant an international meeting.
As part of your bid, tell us: what Food Security challenge should this conference tackle, and why now?
The successful host and programme committee will then work with AMI to develop the proposed focus into the scientific programme, including its scope, sessions, speakers and opportunities for submitted research.
Why host a Sustainable Microbiology Research Conference?
Hosting an SMRC is an opportunity to bring an international applied microbiology community to your institution and city, showcase research and expertise from your region, and play a leading role in shaping a conference around an important scientific challenge.
The successful host will work in partnership with AMI. The programme committee will help develop the scientific programme, identify speakers, contribute to the abstract process, build connections with academia, industry and other stakeholders, and promote the conference through its networks.
AMI will provide professional conference organisation and lead the overall delivery of the event, including registration and abstract management, delegate communications, speaker management, marketing and branding, sponsorship and exhibition, and onsite event delivery.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for researchers and institutions with relevant scientific expertise, strong local connections and the enthusiasm to bring Microbial Solutions for a Changing World to their region.
Bids should identify a host institution and city, proposed conference venue and programme committee, together with the institutional, sponsorship or external support available to help deliver the meeting.
The host will be expected to secure a suitable, accessible venue for at least 150 delegates and provide logistical support. Proposals should also demonstrate the accessibility of the destination, nearby accommodation options and the strength of the local academic and industry community.
This conference is expected to take place in or around November 2027.
Interested in hosting?
Click to download the full MSCW 2027 Call for Bids document including submission guidelines.
- 30 September 2026 – Register your intention to bid and submit questions (using the 'Intent to Bid' form below)
- 31 October 2026 – Deadline to submit your full bid (using the "Submit your bid" button at the top of the page)
- Week commencing 9 November 2026 – Shortlist interviews
- 16 November 2026 – Successful host notified