Heribert Insam

Heribert Insam, Prof. em., microbiologist and science communicator whose work spans soil carbon, climate change, anaerobic digestion, waste and wastewater treatment. He founded the Microbial Resource Management group, co-founded two companies, and established Austria's SARS-CoV-2 wastewater surveillance.  He directed the development of the science center mikroVERSUM and is now club chairman of the association MikroMondo, advancing microbial literacy through innovative public science engagement.

Breaking the Wall of Microbial Invisibility:
Heribert Insam | Project: MikroMondo | Falling Walls Engage Finalist 2026

MikroMondo is a hands-on science center that makes the invisible world of microbes tangible through interactive exhibits, experiments, and sensory experiences. Visitors explore how microbes shape climate, soil health, and carbon cycles as both greenhouse gas producers and climate allies. Developed with 100+ researchers and students, the project promotes microbial literacy, inspires STEM learning, and empowers people to protect climate and biodiversity. By incorporating the arts, MikroMondo aims to increase the reach beyond science.