International Biodeterioration and Biodegradation Symposim 2017

A team of students and postdoctoral scientists from Dr Whitehead’s group were core to the daily running of the conference.

Dr Kathryn Whitehead, Head of Microbiology at Manchester Met, hosted and organised the 17th International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation Symposium which was held at Manchester Met on 6-8 September. A team of students and postdoctoral scientists from Dr Whitehead’s group were core to the daily running of the conference.

The IBBS 17 was held on the theme of “Preservation and Protection of Materials” which included focusing on biodeterioration and biodegradation of cultural materials and the control of biofouling and biofilms. The event was attended by 190 delegates representing 33 countries from all continents (apart from Antarctica!).

The International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation Society was formally established as an international, multidisciplinary organisation concerned with the biodeterioration of commercially important materials. The aim of the IBBS is to promote the science and technology of not only biodeterioration but also biodegradation and bioremediation.

Prize winners included final year PhD student Louise Tetlow (pictured) from the Faculty of Science and Engineering, who won £250 for ‘Best Short Oral Presentation’ for her poster “The effect of plasma proteins on the hygienic status of titanium based metals.”

Dr Kathryn Whitehead said, "It was great to host such an International Conference at MMU and enhance our University, and the Microbiological at Interfaces Group reputation and profile."

Dr Chris Liauw, Senior Lecturer and Researcher Microbiology at Interfaces, was involved in capturing the highlights of the conference as he participated whilst also generating all the photos.