American Academy of Microbiology Fellow

A Cardiff academic has been recognised for advancing the field of microbiology through scientific achievement and original contributions. Professor John Parkes, Head of the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences has been elected Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology.

Professor Parkes joins a distinguished list of scientists who have been elected to the Academy over the last 50 years; recognising excellence, originality, and creativity in the microbiological sciences. Fellows are elected through a highly selective, annual, peer review process which indicates recognition of distinction.

Professor Parkes is a microbial ecologist who has an international research record in geomicrobiology and biogeochemistry of sediments, including deep sediments, and other environments, such as glaciers, subsurface methane hydrates and lignite deposits. He was the first scientist to comprehensively investigate the microbiology of deep marine sediments and demonstrated, contrary to previously held views, that they contained large numbers of active microbes.

His research has great significance for our understanding of processes such as secondary gas formation, deep disposal (e.g. C0₂, nuclear waste), souring of oil reservoirs and for the origin of life and astrobiology. He has authored or co-authored over 120 international journal publications

Professor Parkes said: "I am delighted and honoured to be elected to the American Academy of Microbiology. To be elected by my peers is a true honour and I look forward to participating in the activities of the Academy."

Professor Parkes will be formally admitted to the Academy at a ceremony on 21 May in Denver, USA.