Version 1: Opportunities for Microbiology Citizen Science: Lessons Learnt from Three Pilot Projects

Citizen science is the partnering of professional scientists and members of the public to answer real world scientific questions. There has been huge growth in citizen science over the past two decades but uptake in microbiology research has, thus far, been relatively limited. Here we demonstrate why this is a missed opportunity. Citizen science is well aligned with microbiology research because sample collection methods can be simplified and used in a variety of environments; projects are expected to appeal to participants as topics are likely to be of relevance to people’s lives and interests, including the health of people and the environment; and projects can also lead to real world impact, including the identification of new drugs or biotechnological solutions. In the second part of the paper we present our reflections from three pilot microbiology projects we have recently completed. In order for the field to grow, people need to share both their successes as well as the challenges they have faced, so others wanting to use the method can learn from these experiences. We share simplified sampling methods for yeast strains from home brewing and baking, antimicrobial resistant bacteria on home grown produce and microbes on chopping boards. However, participation in our projects was limited by a range of factors, including time available and resourcing, which impacted on our ability to generate new knowledge and wider impacts. We provide recommendations for others wishing to run microbiology citizen science projects, including ensuring appropriate resourcing and considering ethical implications of projects.