Leadership of the Asian-African Society of Mycobacteriology (AASM)
The Asian-African Society of Mycobacteriology (AASM) is guided by an international group of scientists and experts committed to advancing research, education, laboratory excellence, and international collaboration in mycobacteriology. The leadership brings together scientific expertise and regional perspectives to promote cooperation in tuberculosis (TB), nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) diseases, leprosy, antimicrobial resistance, and other areas of mycobacterial research.
AASM Leading Group
The AASM Leading Group comprises the following members, listed in alphabetical order by surname:
- Prof. Mirdula Bose — India
- Prof. Matthew Bate — United Kingdom
- Prof. Fadila Boulboul — Algeria
- Prof. Parissa Farnia — Iran
- Prof. Jalaledin Ghanavi — Iran
- Prof. Rumina Hasan — Pakistan
- Prof. Sven Hoffner — Sweden
- Prof. Satoshi Mitarai — Japan
- Prof. Ali Akbar Velayati — Iran
Together, the members contribute international scientific perspectives and regional expertise to support the Society’s mission, strategic priorities, and long-term development.
Responsibilities and Strategic Priorities
The AASM Leading Group works collaboratively to:
- Provide strategic and scientific leadership for the Society’s development, activities, and long-term priorities.
- Strengthen international collaboration among researchers, universities, reference laboratories, and public health institutions.
- Promote high-quality research on TB, NTM diseases, leprosy, antimicrobial resistance, and emerging challenges in mycobacteriology.
- Expand regional representation by encouraging the active participation of scientists from Asia, Africa, and other underrepresented regions.
- Support education and capacity building through scientific conferences, training programmes, laboratory quality assurance, and research mentorship.
- Encourage young investigators through opportunities for collaboration, scholarships, research grants, and scientific awards, subject to available resources.
- Develop sustainable partnerships with professional societies, academic institutions, publishers, and international health organizations.
Commitment to Inclusive Global Leadership
AASM recognizes that meaningful international collaboration requires broad geographical representation and active participation from scientists working in diverse scientific and public health settings. The Society is committed to strengthening the involvement of African researchers and expanding collaboration with colleagues in India, China, and other regions.
The Leading Group will encourage the development of a broader network of scientific and management contributors, ensuring that the Society benefits from diverse expertise, regional representation, and shared responsibility.
Through collaborative leadership, scientific integrity, and international partnership, AASM aims to advance mycobacteriology research, strengthen professional networks, and contribute to improved prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mycobacterial diseases worldwide