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About

Balbina Nogales is a leading voice in microbiology whose work bridges the gap between scientific discovery and public understanding. Her research centers on microbial ecology, environmental microbiology, and the critical role of microorganisms in sustaining planetary and human health. Nogales is best known for her landmark paper, "The urgent need for microbiology literacy in society" (2019, 184 citations), which compellingly argues that microbes are not merely pathogens but essential drivers of ecosystem function, climate regulation, and human well-being. This work has become a foundational call to action for educators, policymakers, and scientists alike, highlighting the pervasive and generally positive effects of microbial activity. Beyond this, Nogales has made significant contributions to understanding microbial communities in diverse environments, from soil to marine systems. Her research has been instrumental in demonstrating how microbial networks underpin the health of the entire biosphere, including the atmosphere. With a career dedicated to both rigorous science and public engagement, Nogales has earned recognition as a champion of microbiology literacy, inspiring a new generation of researchers to appreciate the invisible world that sustains life on Earth.