SUMA series - Microbial and Fungal Pigments

Speakers:  Mia Urem and Kabir Bhalla

Sign up: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIqd-2rrDIsG9TeHEas_GhOzt8F1Guw181q

• Microbes To Dye For – Alchemy in the Microscopic World (Mia Urem)

As nature’s invisible chemical factories, the creativity and diversity of microorganisms is endless. Their inherent adaptability, both in nature and the laboratory, make them efficient manufacturers as well as exceptional recyclers. Though a few are disease-causing, most are the creators of the
majority of antibiotics and other so-called ‘natural products’, a treasure trove of diverse compounds that include pigments and dyes. Bacteria, fungi, micro-algae and other microscopic organisms are all essential to life on Earth, but also an important component in biogeochemical processes that lead to
the creation of minerals and healthy soil. Bacteria have even been discovered that can convert toxic metal compounds into gold.
This talk will address how and why microbial dyes and pigments, including biogenic ochre, are produced as well as the potential for bio-based pigment production. Examples of pigment microbiology will be presented, including microbes associated with earth pigments and ancient fermentation techniques for the production of indigo. From natural pigments to natural products, you will be introduced to the mesmerizingly and colourful world of microorganisms.

• Bio

Mia is a microbiologist and biochemist with a passion for pigments; foraging and working with as well as studying the history, science and cultural context of colour and colourants. She is a member of the PRI board and is currently working in medical microbiology on novel antibiotics. Previously, Mia worked on varied projects, such as the biological recycling of synthetic polymers and plastics with fungi, and the isolation of ancient microbes from a 40,000-year-old mammoth. For her PhD in Molecular Biotechnology at the University of Leiden (The Netherlands), she worked on the intricate biochemical processes involved in the production of pigmented compounds by soil bacteria. In addition to natural and microbial pigments, she is also interested in the microorganisms that are associated with pigment sources and objects, such as paintings.

• Contact Info

Instagram: @mia_culpa
Twitter/X: @ATGATCGCG
Email: [email protected] 

• Beyond Melanin: The World of Fungal Pigments (Kabir Bhalla)

A journey into the world of fungal pigments, exploring their real-world applications and the techniques used for isolation!

• Bio

I'm a PhD Candidate at the University of British Columbia, specializing in medical mycology and fungal immunology. My research centers on understanding how human pathogenic fungi, like Cryptococcus neoformans, cause disease and interact with the host innate and adaptive
immune systems. I have a strong interest in scientific imaging and microscopy. Currently, I'm working on building a community of microscopy enthusiasts and researchers to facilitate knowledge-sharing. Beyond the lab, I'm dedicated to teaching and mentoring. I find great fulfillment in facilitating workshops and mentoring students.

• Contact Info

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KabirBhalla4 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kabirb16/ 
Contact Information: [email protected]