In This Section
Two UCC scientists join prestigious academy of world-leading microbiologists
University College Cork (UCC) researchers, and Principal Investigators at APC Microbiome Ireland, are amongst the newly elected fellows to the prestigious European Academy of Microbiology (EAM).
The selection of John F. Cryan, Professor & Chair at the Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience and Vice-President for Research and Innovation at UCC, and Gerard Clarke, Professor of Neurobehavioral Science in the Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Science, recognises their scientific excellence and long-standing contributions to microbiology.
Following a rigorous nomination and evaluation process by existing members of the Academy, Professor Cryan and Professor Clarke now join a distinguished community of over 200 world-leading microbiologists from across Europe and beyond who are committed to strengthening the visibility, impact, and future of microbial science.
Professor John F. Cryan is selected as an EAM fellow based on his expertise on understanding the interaction between brain, gut and microbiome and how it applies to stress, psychiatric and immune-related disorders at key time-windows across the lifespan. He is a Senior Editor of Neuropharmacology and of Neurobiology of Stress and is on the editorial board of a further 15 journals.
Professor Gerard Clarke is selected as an EAM fellow based on his expertise in advancing our understanding of the mechanisms underpinning microbial regulation of brain function and behaviour. His research interests include the interface between microbial and host metabolism of tryptophan, psychobiotic discovery and translational biomarkers of stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. He was included in Clarivate Analytics Web of Science Group Highly Cited Researchers list for 6 consecutive years from 2019-2024.
The EAM is part of the Federation of European Microbiological Societies (FEMS) network and brings together eminent microbiologists whose work has significantly advanced the field. Through the collective expertise of its Fellows, the Academy contributes to scientific dialogue, supports emerging priorities in microbiology, and helps amplify the impact of microbiological research for society.
The selection of 95 new EAM fellows represent a diverse range of expertise across microbiology and related disciplines, spanning institutions across Europe and beyond. Their work reflects the breadth and dynamism of the field, from fundamental microbial research to applied innovations addressing global challenges in health, environment, and biotechnology.
Commenting on the election, the EAM President Prof. Cecília M. Arraiano said: "We are delighted to welcome this new group of Fellows to the European Academy of Microbiology. Their achievements and expertise reflect the strength and diversity of microbiology. The Academy thrives through the engagement of its Fellows, and we look forward to the perspectives and contributions they will bring to shape the future of microbial science."
Professor Paul Ross, Director of APC Microbiome Ireland, said: "This is another tremendous accolade for our team of world-leading scientists here at APC and a fantastic honour for John and Gerard to be included in a globally recognised academy of researchers at the very pinnacle of innovation and influence in microbial science."