New England Biolabs and the Microbiology Society Partner to Support Underrepresented Scientists
Partnership aims to help broaden access to opportunities in microbiology and support the next generation of researchers.
London, UK — (2 Oct 2026)
New England Biolabs (NEB) UK and the Microbiology Society today announced a new partnership to widen access to microbiology for underrepresented and historically marginalised communities. NEB has committed additional funding to the Microbiology Society’s grants programme, sponsoring two Vacation Studentship Grants and one Outreach and Engagement Grant.
NEB’s Commitment to Expanding Opportunity in Science
The commitment reflects NEB’s belief that meaningful progress on equity in science requires sustained investment. NEB is committed to its role in advancing equity within our company, the life sciences industry and the broader community. This commitment is delivered through initiatives that support STEM education, scientific mentorship and outreach, helping to create more pathways into science for those who may not otherwise have access to them.
The funding provided through this partnership will support underrepresented undergraduate researchers undertaking microbiology projects and enable outreach activities designed to engage and inspire new audiences. By investing in both emerging scientists and community engagement, NEB hopes to contribute to a more inclusive scientific community where talented individuals from all backgrounds have the opportunity to participate in and contribute to scientific discovery.
This partnership builds on NEB’s wider commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, including the Passion in Science Awards, STEM outreach programmes and local initiatives led by NEB UK that support students and young people considering careers in science.
“Talent in science is everywhere, but opportunity is not — and we are committed to changing that, starting in the classroom and continuing throughout a scientific career. We’re proud to support the Microbiology Society in the development of young people who may not otherwise see themselves represented in science.”
— Davin Miller, General Manager, New England Biolabs UK
“NEB’s commitment to its role in advancing equity within the life sciences industry and the broader community mirrors the Society’s work to ensure that equality, diversity and inclusion is considered as part of everything we do. Our vision is a world in which microbiology provides maximum benefit to society and this will only be achieved by bringing the perspectives of underrepresented communities to our activities across the microbiology community. Our Vacation Studentships and Outreach and Engagement Grants offer invaluable opportunities to microbiologists and we are delighted to partner with NEB as part of our mutual drive to expand access to science. Their funding for two Vacation Studentship Grants and one Outreach and Engagement Grant will grow opportunities for Black students and Society members, and we look forward to awarding the first round of grants under this partnership.”
— Dr Peter Cotgreave, Chief Executive, Microbiology Society
About NEB
For over 50 years, New England Biolabs (NEB) has pioneered the discovery and production of innovative products tailored for molecular biology research. Our commitment to scientific discovery is evident in all that we do, including our ever-expanding product portfolio, investment in our basic and applied research program, and support of customers’ research in academia and industry, including cutting-edge technologies for use in molecular diagnostics and nucleic-acid vaccines development. Guided by our founding principles, NEB proactively invests in efforts to improve the well-being of our employees, surrounding communities, as well as the future of our planet. NEB remains a privately held company with global reach, supported by our headquarters in Ipswich, MA, USA, subsidiary offices in 10 countries, and over 60 distribution partners around the world. For more information about New England Biolabs, visit www.neb.com.
About the Microbiology Society
The Microbiology Society is a membership charity and a not-for-profit publisher for scientists interested in microbes, their effects and their practical uses. It has a worldwide membership based in universities, industry, hospitals, research institutes, schools, and other organisations. We support and invest in the microbiology community for the benefit of everyone. Our principal goal is to amplify our members’ voices, wherever they are in the world.
