Speakers
Dr Paul Sainsbury
Event Essentials
Dr Paul Sainsbury earned his PhD in Chemistry from the University of Warwick, focusing on the synthesis of chemical compounds through organic chemistry and gene editing in bacteria, bridging the disciplines of chemistry and microbiology. With over two decades of experience in public relations, journalism, and marketing, he has significantly contributed to the communication and promotion of microbiology and scientific innovations.
As the Chief Operating Officer at AMI, Paul is instrumental in advancing the organisation's vision that applied microbiology can solve the world's greatest challenges. He plays a pivotal role in driving initiatives that strengthen diversity and inclusion within the scientific community. His expertise in public relations has enabled him to work with several non-profit clients, devoted to improving access to communication and skills in remote and underserved areas.
Dr Michael Doane is a microbial ecologist at Flinders University, Australia, specialising in metagenomics, microbial community dynamics, and the ecology of marine and terrestrial systems. His research examines the role of microbial communities in ecosystem health, resilience, and nutrient cycling, with a focus on extreme and unique environments. Through his work, Dr Doane investigates how microbial diversity and metabolic functions contribute to biogeochemical processes, particularly in ecosystems impacted by human activities.
Dr Doane’s recent projects include studies on microbial community assembly in marine bacterioplankton, metagenomic profiling of gut and soil microbiomes, and microbiome interactions with marine species such as leopard and whale sharks. His work utilises advanced genomic and bioinformatics techniques to reveal the functional potential of microbiomes in shaping ecological processes and influencing host health.