Tue Dec 03 14:38:24 UTC 2024: ## Black Microbiologists Association Wins Prestigious EDI Prize

**Liverpool, UK** – The Black Microbiologists Association (BMA) has been awarded the inaugural Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Prize at the 2025 Microbiology Society Conference. The award recognizes the BMA’s outstanding contribution to promoting diversity and inclusion within the microbiological community.

The prize was presented to two groups, the BMA and the University of Glasgow Life Sciences “Decolonising the Curriculum” team. The BMA was specifically recognized for its highly successful “Black in Microbiology Week,” a virtual conference series designed to showcase Black microbiologists globally and address issues of racism and health disparities within the field.

I’ah Donovan-Banfield, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Liverpool and Director of Communications for the BMA, accepted the award on behalf of the organization. Donovan-Banfield, a key figure in the BMA’s success, highlighted the significant effort invested in making “Black in Microbiology Week” a sustainable initiative. She encouraged Black microbiologists, mentors, and allies to get involved with the BMA’s ongoing efforts.

Donovan-Banfield’s own background includes significant contributions to microbiology research, focusing on virus evolution and the development of novel sequencing methods. Her dedication extends beyond research, encompassing volunteer work with the Microbiology Society and other initiatives aimed at increasing representation for underrepresented groups in microbiology. The BMA’s EDI Prize win underscores the organization’s vital role in fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for microbiology.

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