Thomas Bosch receives Microbiome Medal from Penn State University

Thomas Bosch was awarded the Microbiome Medal by the One Health Microbiome Center (OHMC) at Pennsylvania State University, USA. He is the first recipient of this award and receives it for his pioneering work in host–microbiome biology and his dedication to mentoring and public engagement. The award was presented by Seth Bordenstein, Director of the OHMC.

From the Laudatio:
The Microbiome Medal award established in 2025 by the One Health Microbiome Center honors a singular scholar or group of scholars who nobly extend excellence, acumen, and ingenuity in research, mentorship, and service to the global field of microbiome science. Microbiome Medal scholars do not just advance knowledge and training; they enrich humanity and improve the lives of many people, including those they may never meet. They motivate and accelerate the next generation of microbiome scientists.

It is a distinct privilege that the inaugural 2025 recipient is Dr THOMAS BOSCH, who has played one of the most formative roles as a thought leader and experimental maestro in illuminating how microbes shape development, evolution, neurobiology, immortality, and cancer. The author of over 180 papers and three books, German National Academy of Sciences member, and senior research professor at Kiel University, Bosch has been instrumental in the development of the concept and literature on the metaorganism/holobiont, which views hosts plus their microbiome as structural and functional units in the hierarchy of life’s organization. Bosch’s scholarship decisively revealed an ancient, elemental unity of life between the visible and microbial worlds.

Bosch will be honored with the Microbiome Medallion and two public lectures celebrating his contributions. By placing equal emphasis on research, mentorship, and service in our evaluation, we recognize that true academic leadership involves not only discovery but also the vital work of shaping the future of the scientific community.

More information: https://www.psu.edu/news/huck-institutes-life-sciences/story/host-microbiome-interaction-biologist-receive-inaugural