Early Career

The Early Career section of the Swiss Society for Microbiology (SSM) represents and connects young microbiologists across Switzerland, with a dedicated representative within the SSM committee. Created in 2019, the section has significantly expanded its activities and visibility in recent years.

We actively contribute to the SSM annual meeting by organizing dedicated Early Career sessions, designed to be interactive, relevant, and aligned with current challenges faced by young scientists. For example, during the 2025 SSM congress, we organized sessions focusing on the use of artificial intelligence in microbiology and on impostor syndrome and well-being in scientific careers, creating open discussions around both technological innovation and personal development.

Beyond the congress, we are strengthening our communication and outreach through multiple channels:

• Our Instagram account (@ssm_earlycareer) and LinkedIn page (SSM Early Career)
• A growing newsletter, shared across Swiss universities and institutions
• The development of a national network through the MoTCH project (Microbiologists of Tomorrow in Switzerland), aiming to connect students, PhD candidates, and early-career professionals across the country

A key objective of our section is to foster networking and community building, by collaborating with other associations, promoting events, and creating opportunities for exchange between different fields of microbiology.

We also aim to increase awareness and accessibility of international opportunities, particularly through European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) and its trainee network.

The Early Career section is open to new ideas and initiatives, if you would like to get involved or contribute, we would be happy to hear from you !

Who is considered Early Career?

• Under 35 years old
• and/or student (any track), PhD candidate, FAMH trainee or postdoctoral researcher

Why join the SSM as an Early Career member?

• Eligibility to Travel grants to support participation in international meetings and strengthen your CV
  → https://www.swissmicrobiology.ch/en/society/grants
• Access to opportunities through FEMS (Federation of European Microbiological Societies), including training, congress participation and funding schemes
  → https://fems-microbiology.org/about_fems/network-and-activities/congress/
  → https://fems-microbiology.org/about_fems/network-and-activities/grants/
• Integration into the ESCMID Early Career / Trainee network, with access to dedicated activities, news, and training opportunities
• Eligibility for SSM awards, including the PhD Award and the Encouragement Award
  → https://www.swissmicrobiology.ch/en/society/awards
• Participation in competitions during the annual meeting (best oral presentation, poster award, lay communication contest)
• Access to dedicated Early Career sessions during the SSM annual congress
• Reduced membership fee (CHF 35/year) and discounted congress registration
• Full member rights, including voting at the General Assembly and opportunities to engage within the SSM committee

By joining the SSM Early Career community, you become part of a dynamic, supportive, and growing network of microbiologists shaping the future of the field in Switzerland.