Microbiome-Net

Microbiome‑Net is a UK‑led Microbiome One Health Innovation Network bringing together researchers, industry, regulators, policymakers and investors to unlock the full potential of microbiome science. By connecting expertise across human, animal, plant and environmental health, the network aims to accelerate innovation, translation and real‑world impact.

Microbiomes are the communities of microorganisms that live in and around us. They play a critical role in health, food systems and the environment. Advances in microbiome science offer powerful opportunities to address major global challenges, including chronic and infectious disease, antimicrobial resistance, food security, agricultural sustainability and climate change. However, progress has often been slowed by fragmented research, siloed sectors and gaps between academia and industry. Microbiome‑Net is designed to change that.

Funded by a BBSRC Network Grant, Microbiome-Net brings together teams from the University of Liverpool, the National Biofilms Innovation Centre, the Quadram Institute, Nottingham Trent University, and the University of Oxford. 

Our Vision

Our vision is to create a sustainable 'network of networks' that connects microbiome research and innovation across disciplines, sectors and borders. Building on the UK’s strong academic and commercial base, Microbiome-Net will position the UK at the forefront of microbiome innovation while supporting the One Health agenda - recognising the deep interconnections between human, animal, plant and environmental health.

The network builds on the legacy of the UKRI-funded KTN Microbiome Innovation Network and its 2021 Microbiome Strategic Roadmap, acting as a custodian of its recommendations and taking them forward at scale.

What we will do

Microbiome-Net will act as a convenor and catalyst across the microbiome ecosystem by:

• Connecting communities: Bringing together academia, industry, regulators, funders, investors and policymakers across the microbiome landscape, nationally and internationally
• Increasing visibility and access: Developing a central online platform to showcase UK microbiome expertise, facilities and opportunities, making it easier to find collaborators and partners
• Supporting translation and innovation: Helping microbiome research move from discovery to application by strengthening links between research, regulation, manufacturing and investment
• Building skills and capacity: Supporting cross-disciplinary training in microbiome science, data science, AI, engineering biology, regulation and entrepreneurship
• Encouraging entrepreneurship: Supporting innovators with guidance on IP, regulation, funding and commercial pathways through engagement with experienced entrepreneurs, venture capital and innovation bodies
• Engaging widely: Delivering publications, webinars, training workshops and an annual Microbiome One Health Conference, alongside public and policy engagement activities.

A Network of Networks

Within Microbiome-Net, interconnected innovation networks will focus on key One Health domains:

• Human Microbiome Innovation Network – advancing microbiome-based diagnostics, therapeutics, personalised health and nutrition
• Animal Microbiome Innovation Network – improving animal health, welfare and productivity, with links to zoonotic disease and antimicrobial resistance
• Plant Microbiome Innovation Network – supporting sustainable agriculture, food security and environmental resilience
• Environmental Microbiome Innovation Network – exploring microbiomes in ecosystems and the built environment, including environmental reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance
• Microbiome Standards and Biobanking Network – supporting data quality, reproducibility, standards development and access to high-quality biobanks across sectors.

These networks remain closely connected, enabling collaboration across traditional boundaries and ensuring microbiome research delivers meaningful One Health impact.