MIRRI-ERIC AND WDCM SIGNED A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING TO STRENGTHEN GLOBAL MICROBIAL RESOURCES AND DATA

MIRRI-ERIC and the World Data Centre for Microorganisms (WDCM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the WDCM 2026 International Annual Conference, held in Beijing, China, from 21 to 23 September 2026. The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation between the two organisations, with a focus on strengthening global microbial resources and data. 

The MoU foresees the exchange and consolidation of knowledge, information, and practical skills in data management.  

A key objective will be optimising the interoperability between global microbial resource catalogues in line with relevant international FAIR data standards and initiatives. 

MIRRI-ERIC Executive Director Ana Portugal Melo participated in the WDCM conference, where she delivered a presentation entitled "From Collections to Connections: Shaping the Future of Access to Microbial Resources". MIRRI-ERIC projects MALDIBANK and Microbes-4-Climate were particularly highlighted, and the opportunity was used to announce the 3^rd call for TNAs regarding this latter project. Ana also served as Co-Chair, together with Yong Tao, of the session "Global Cooperation and Innovation in Biotechnology & Bioindustry", contributing to discussions on international cooperation and innovation in biotechnology and bioindustry.