Strategy Document 2020 - 2024 - Page 8

Grants & Awards Researchers able to travel and work without hindrance, encouraging and enabling collaborations to produce global responses to global issues. 1. We will ensure that our grants offer significant benefits to our Member Societies members and beyond and remain relevant to the changing needs of those they support. 2. We will work to create a network of grantees to ensure microbiologists can continue to be supported by FEMS grants and their peers throughout their professional career. OUR Priorities MICROBIOLOGY IN THE WORLD Education and Development Support for microbiologists to develop the skills and knowledge to keep up to date with recent developments, a changing world and changing research priorities. Industry and Business Support for microbiologists to develop the skills and knowledge to keep up to date with recent developments, a changing world and changing research priorities. Engaged and educated professionals, and public awareness of the role of microorganisms in daily life and their benefi ts, beauty, and risks. 1. We will create increased connections between research and industry, acting as a bridge to facilitate increased communication and collaboration. 2. We will expand our definition of research and training to include industrial placements, re-defining our grants to reflect this. 3. We will help graduates be equipped for employment and assist with finding jobs within industry and business. 4. We will assist industry to find the best employees for the roles they are seeking. 5. Our events will increasingly provide a forum for conversations between researchers, students, industry and business. 1. We will use our publications and events as tools to offer microbiologists opportunities for continued professional development and offer workshops that offer parallel personal development in the additional skills required to become an effective researcher. 2. We will aim to improve bachelor’s level teaching of microbiology by offering resources and training to educators. 3. We will use International Microorganism Day, (17 September), as an opportunity to promote the diversity of microorganisms and the varied roles they play in everyday life, to the wider public. Infl uencing Policy Meaningful dialogue between scientists and policy makers at national and European level. 1. We will begin to deliver evidence-based science into the political and policy-making process. 2. We will begin to advocate for the importance of microbiology to be considered when formulating policy, in conjunction with the European Academy of Microbiology. 7