Edition 6 - May, 1999

BCCMTM/LMG: New Director Appointed

Prof J. Swings

In October 1998, Professor K. Kersters retired both from his position at the Laboratory of Microbiology of the University of Gent and as director of the BCCM^TM/LMG Bacteria Collection. He performed both functions with great dedication for which we would all like to thank him.

Building on the tradition of fostering the link between the BCCM^TM/LMG and the university laboratory, Professor J. Swings from the Laboratory of Microbiology is the new BCCM^TM/LMG director.

Prof. Swings started his career in 1974, as a bacteria taxonomist at the Gent Laboratory, becoming renowned for his contributions to the taxonomy of acetic acid bacteria and plant pathogens.

Jean Swings promotes the introduction of new technologies and appreciates the value of efficient data management and data processing. He is an enthusiastic supporter of the policy of co-operation both on the national and the international scene, not only for purely scientific projects, but also in more specific culture collection issues. Recent initiatives such as CABRI (Common Access to Biotechnological Resources and Information) and MOSAICC (Micro-organisms Sustainable Use and Access Regulation International Code of Conduct) have his full backing.

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