Harnessing microbial systems. Developing science-based solutions. Building healthy ecosystems.
The Center of Excellence in Microbiome Sciences unites researchers studying how microbial communities shape human, animal and environmental health. Through research, education and collaboration, the Center is advancing science-based solutions for a more sustainable world.
Interdisciplinary Research
Researchers across the University of Maryland are working together to better understand complex microbial communities and their interactions with living systems and the environment. This collaborative approach is driving new discoveries with implications for human health, agriculture and ecosystem resilience. Learn more about the Center’s research initiatives and scientific expertise.
Education & Workforce Development
Preparing the next generation of microbiome scientists is central to the Center’s mission. Planned undergraduate and graduate offerings will include new microbiome-focused courses, interdisciplinary training opportunities and expanded educational programs designed to support a growing field. Explore upcoming educational initiatives and opportunities for students.
Partnerships & Collaboration
The Center seeks to build partnerships with organizations, institutions and individuals committed to advancing microbiome science and developing microbiome-based solutions to real-world challenges. These collaborations strengthen research, expand innovation and create new opportunities for impact. Learn more about partnership opportunities and collaborative projects.
Research Infrastructure
The Center supports research and education through access to advanced laboratory equipment, computational tools and shared resources. These capabilities enable cutting-edge investigations across a wide range of microbiome science applications. Discover the facilities and technologies supporting the Center’s work.
Featured News
“Forever Chemicals” Need Not Be Forever
Ph.D. student Yongcheng (Suyue) Cao is finding microbial solutions to break down persistent toxic chemicals.
Putting Biofilms to Work for Cleaner Water and More Efficient Data Centers
Birthe Kjellerup's research is trying to solve problems that bacteria and biofilms cause, while also using these same biofilms to solve problems.
Scientists Discover Migration-Mediated Mechanism Enabling Bacteria-Virus Coexistence
Their study shows how collective movement enables viruses to persist with migrating bacterial colonies while minimizing risk.
Center Events
MicroSocial Seminar Series: Taiwo Bankole & Ujjwol Subedi
Speaker: Taiwo Bankole, Ph.D. student in nutrition and food science, Speaker: Ujjwol Subedi, Ph.D. student in nutrition and food science
Expanding Access to Microbiome Research and Tools to Improve Human and Environmental Health - A Discussion Among Societal Stakeholders
Microbiome research drives modern breakthroughs in human health, agriculture, and environmental restoration.
MicroSocial Seminar Series: Marvin Whiteley
Speaker: Marvin Whiteley, Regents’ Professor of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology