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K-State Today

August 13, 2015

Agronomy professor appointed as chair of national committee

Submitted by Steve Watson

Chuck Rice

Chuck Rice, university distinguished professor of agronomy, has been appointed to a three-year term as chair of the national Committee on Environmental Microbiology, a component of the Public and Scientific Affairs Board of the American Society for Microbiology.

The American Society for Microbiology is the largest single life science society with more than 39,000 members representing clinical, food and environmental, and industrial microbiologists around the world. The mission of the board and the society is to advance the microbiological sciences and to promote the application of microbiologically-related information for the improvement of human health, economic well-being, environmental soundness and national security.

The committee's role is to provide a strong and effective voice on behalf of the society's large and diverse membership during public discussions, offering sound advice and rapid and timely recommendations to inform public leaders and key private sector representatives on important policy matters related to microbiology.

Key issues the Public and Scientific Affairs Board is currently addressing include federal appropriations affecting microbiological and related biomedical research, training and public health programs; new and/or re-emerging infectious disease agents, antimicrobial drug resistance and associated public policy; providing oversight and expert advice on biodefense, bioterrorism preparedness, biosafety and biosecurity measures, and associated public policy; science and policy affecting research and training in microbiological sciences, food and drinking water safety, biotechnology and environmental policy, and agriculture; regulations and policy affecting the care and use of animals in research; and encouraging diversity within the field of microbiology.