WVU student selected for American Society of Microbiology student ambassador
Callie Ancosky, a sophomore in the Immunology and Medical Microbiology program at the West Virginia University School of Medicine, was selected to be the West Virginia student ambassador for the American Society for Microbiology (ASM).
The American Society for Microbiology is the world's largest scientific organization for microbiologists, dedicated to advancing microbial sciences through research, education and advocacy. The organization connects over 38,000 scientists worldwide in fields such as infectious diseases, public health and environmental microbiology.
“This opportunity has considerable meaning to me, as it allows me to represent not only West Virginia University but the entire state of West Virginia,” Ancosky said. “This summer, I will be attending the 2026 ASM Microbe Conference in Washington, D.C., where I plan to network and explore new collaborative opportunities for WVU.”
As the student ambassador, Ancosky is responsible for networking and connecting ASM chapters across West Virginia, as well as collaborating with chapters in surrounding states. Her role includes planning, funding and hosting events that promote networking, professional development and scientific collaboration.
“One of my primary goals for the upcoming year is to expand K–12 outreach efforts,” Ancosky said. “I strongly believe that the future of science lies with children and teenagers and inspiring them early to engage with science can have a lasting impact.”
WVU has a student chapter of the American Society for Microbiology that is open to students interested in learning more about microbiology or careers related to the field. Monthly meetings feature a wide range of guest speakers, including medical students, graduate research students, pathologists’ assistants and global health and advocacy researchers.
Learn more about the WVU Immunology and Medical Microbiology program at medicine.wvu.edu/immunology-and-medical-microbiology/ or explore associated career pathways at go.health.wvu.edu/pre-health.