FEMS is a pan-European scientific body campaigning to get science - and microbiology in particular - on the European agenda. It was set up in 1974 to promote microbiology across Europe, and today we are a growing coalition of 57 member societies from 41 countries. We bring together around 30,000 professional microbiologists who are exploring microbiology and its impact on the world, and we are working with similar organizations elsewhere to make our network global. Members can apply for grants and/or support when organizing a meeting. FEMS facilitates exchange of scientific knowledge to all microbiologists in Europe and worldwide by publishing seven microbiology journals and organizing a biennial congress for microbiologists around the world.