ASM Fellow Professor Chris Greening Honoured with International 2026 WH Pierce Global Impact in Microbiology Prize

The Australian Society for Microbiology (ASM) proudly congratulates long-standing member Professor Chris Greening on winning the prestigious 2026 WH Pierce Global Impact in Microbiology Prize. Presented as part of the Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards, this international honour recognizes individuals and teams whose work addresses critical global issues in microbiology. The WH Pierce Prize commemorates William Henry Pierce, a pioneer in microbiology, particularly in bacterial culture media development.

Professor Greening is a Fellow of the ASM and a previous recipient of the society’s Jim Pittard Award, with several of his mentees making substantial contributions to both the ASM and the field of microbiology. Professor Greening leads a research group at Monash University. Best known for his pioneering research discovering how microorganisms can draw energy directly from trace gases in the atmosphere — literally "living on air", Professor Greening’s work has reshaped our fundamental understanding of life. His research program spans from enzymatic mechanisms driving these processes to investigating dynamic ecosystems, delivering solutions for climate action and One Health initiatives.

"I’m immensely honoured to receive the WH Pierce Global Impact in Microbiology Prize. While I started off as a purely basic scientist, over the years I’ve realised just how many solutions microbes can offer to the world’s biggest challenges. I’m now dedicating my career to understanding, using and communicating the remarkable capabilities of microbes to improve our planet, health and economies. I’ve been deeply inspired by many wonderful trailblazers, mentors and collaborators along the way, and am incredibly grateful to work with such a talented and generous team of people who have driven this work. For me, the award is a wonderful recognition not just of our impact, but of the extraordinary potential of microbiology to make a difference in the world” said Professor Greening on receiving this award.

The ASM extends its warmest congratulations to Professor Greening on this well-deserved global recognition of his contributions as a researcher, mentor, and advocate for microbiology.

For more information:

·       Professor Greening’s research: https://research.monash.edu/en/persons/chris-greening/

·       Applied Microbiology International Horizon Award announcement https://www.the-microbiologist.com/news/horizon-awards-2026-professor-chris-greening-named-as-winner-of-wh-pierce-prize/10312.article