John Peters named an American Academy of Microbiology Fellow

PULLMAN, Wash. – John Peters, director of Washington State University’s Institute of Biological Chemistry, has been named a Fellow in the American Academy of Microbiology.

This is John Peters’ second such honor in the last three months — late last fall he was named a Fellow in the American Association for the Advancement of Science for his contributions in chemistry.

John Peters, WSU Institute of Biological Chemistry, earns dual fellowships with AAM and AAAS.
John Peters, WSU Institute of Biological Chemistry, earns dual fellowships with AAM and AAAS.

The American Academy of Microbiology represents the American Society for Microbiology, the world’s oldest and largest life science organization. The mission of the Academy is to recognize scientists for outstanding contributions to microbiology and provide microbiological expertise in the service of science and the public. Peters’ work involves understanding energy use in living creatures at the microbial level.

“I hope the work I’ve done with my colleagues brings a better understanding of how living organisms use energy, leading to reduced fertilizer use or increased efficiency in our use of energy,” Peters said. “This research we’ve done lays the groundwork to help grow crops or make energy production and utilization more efficient.”

Peters said he also is proud of the recognition in two completely different fields: chemistry and microbiology.

“It says a lot about the scope of our program and what we do to advance science,” he said.

Contact:

  • John Peters, WSU Institute of Biological Chemistry, 509‑335‑3412, peters@wsu.edu

Next Story

Extreme microbe may change how apples are protected

A compound derived from an extreme microbe is being tested by WSU researchers as a potential new way to protect apples from fire blight and Listeria, offering a more durable alternative to current treatments.

Recent News

Selling the city: students elevate Vancouver’s tourism strategy

WSU students partnered with Visit Vancouver to develop real-world tourism strategies, identifying new event opportunities and marketing ideas that highlight the city’s growing potential as a regional destination.

WSU names Sandra Haynes EVP for statewide campuses 

The new role aligns leadership and operations at Everett, Tri‑Cities, and Vancouver campuses to better serve students, communities, and workforce needs across Washington.

Jon Haarlow to lead Washington State Athletics

Haarlow, who has served as interim athletic director since Nov. 12, 2025, will be introduced at a press conference in the Alger Family Club Room at Gesa Field Monday, April 20, at 11 a.m.