At this year’s Microbial Ecology & Water Engineering (MEWE11) conference in Atlanta, researchers from the University of Glasgow showcased innovative approaches to understanding microbial communities in water systems.
Ayo Ogundero delivered an oral presentation on his work with Professor William Sloan on diclofenac biodegradation using droplet microfluidics, where they investigated how different bacterial community compositions and population sizes influence the breakdown of this persistent pharmaceutical pollutant. Ayo also presented a poster on chlorine disinfection, highlighting how slow-growing, chlorine-injured bacteria can experience heightened stress responses and may play an important role in antimicrobial resistance transmission.

Beyond presentations, Ayo took part in a special modelling workshop, where the diclofenac project was used as a case study for exploring new mathematical frameworks to predict microbial pollutant degradation. This interactive session also used research from other participants as case studies to link experimental results with advanced modelling strategies and sparked new collaboration opportunities.
Ayo also had the privilege of moderating Session 9: Biofilms and Biofilters, which brought together researchers Dr Katherine Fish (UK), Dr Sarah Potgieter (USA) and Professor Gang Lui (China) to discuss the impacts of disinfectants such as chlorine, chloramine, and UV on drinking water biofilm ecology.

The conference was also attended by Professor William Sloan who gave an oral presentation on his work with Dr Tania Gomez Borraz and Dr Tymon Herzyk on the harnessing of metabolic heat from microorganisms.

Professor Cindy Smith served as the conference chair for MEWE11 in Atlanta, overseeing the scientific programme, coordinating the organising committee, and delivering the opening address to welcome participants from across the international water microbiology community.