A significant portion of basic and applied life science research requires microorganisms as study specimens. Managing Microorganisms aims to be the standard reference for anyone who works with microorganisms, primarily bacteria and fungi. It is applicable to researchers who maintain their own collections of strains, and those who use one of the many public service culture collections. The book includes coverage of: ? methods of preservation and characterization for different groups of microorganisms; ? best practice guidelines for culture collection management; ? how to protect investment in research with microorganisms; ? where to source authenticated microorganisms; ? how to store, handle and distribute microorganisms effectively and safely; ? the factors to consider in designing a sustainable business plan for a culture collection; ? the consideration of health and safety issues, and the wider regulatory environment. Managing Microorganisms is an essential reference for anyone working with microorganisms and culture collections. In addition, it will be of great use for academic researchers and students in applied life sciences, especially those who are involved in sourcing and maintaining reference strains, whilst it also will provide a useful guide for consultants, biotechnologists and other members of bioindustry.