Microbes, Mentorship, and ISME: Dr. Akbar Adjie Pratama on Building Inclusive Scientific Communities
Viruses are often seen as agents of disease, but for Dr. Akbar Adjie Pratama, they are also key players in shaping ecosystems and even the planet’s evolution. As a joint-postdoctoral researcher in the Küsel Lab at the University of Jena, Sullivan Lab at the Ohio State University and member of the ISME Early Career Scientist Committee (ECSC), Adjie explores how viruses influence microbial life in groundwater systems and champions diversity and visibility within the global microbial ecology community.
“I’ve always been fascinated by how something as tiny as a virus may help shape entire ecosystems, and possibly the evolution of the Earth.”
In our conversation, Adjie shares how his scientific curiosity led him from studying permafrost viruses to joining the interdisciplinary research environment of the Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse”, and why he believes diversity and mentorship are essential for the future of microbial ecology.
On finding purpose in microbial ecology
After several years investigating viruses in thawing permafrost at The Ohio State University, Adjie joined the Microverse Cluster to broaden his research perspective and explore the largely uncharted groundwater virome.
“The Cluster provided the ideal environment: an interdisciplinary setting that connects molecular, ecological, and environmental research.”
Here, he continues to examine how viruses interact with microbial communities and contribute to ecosystem resilience. He particularly values the cluster’s seminar series and mentoring initiatives, which he describes as “spaces for real scientific exchange” and “incredible opportunities for professional growth.”
On representation and diversity in science
As a member of the ISME Early Career Scientist Committee (ECSC), Adjie supports and connects early-career researchers worldwide. As the first Indonesian and first Southeast Asian scientist on the committee, representation and visibility within the global microbial ecology community are central to his engagement.
“This is not just a personal milestone, but an opportunity to help pave the way for visibility within the global microbial ecology community.”
Through the ECSC, Adjie contributes to initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), from mentorship programs to highlighting early-career scientists through ISME’s communication channels. His approach to networking emphasizes collaboration and community-building rather than self-promotion.
“The goal isn’t just to be visible, but to contribute, to share ideas, support peers, and strengthen our global microbial ecology community.”
Looking ahead: #UnityinDiversity
In this spirit of inclusion, the ISME Early Career Scientist Committee invites researchers to join the upcoming #UnityinDiversity Virtual Meeting on 21 October 2025. The event will feature six invited speakers from across the globe, sharing perspectives on microbial ecology and engaging in a panel discussion on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the microbial sciences.
- Date: 21 October 2025
- Time: 8:00 AM PST / 5:00 PM CET / 11:00 PM Beijing Time
- Location: Online
- Learn more and register here
Closing thoughts
Through his work in both research and scientific community-building, Akbar Adjie Pratama exemplifies how collaboration, diversity, and curiosity can drive progress in microbiome science.
“Being part of the ECSC is about giving back, helping create a supportive and visible network where early-career microbial ecologists can grow, connect, and feel represented in shaping the future of our discipline.”