TARGetAMR is proud to highlight a recent The Lancet Microbe podcast episode featuring our Co-Director Professor Kate Baker and Associate Director Dr Tess Johnson. In the episode, they share expert insights on the critical intersection of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) policy and microbial genomics.
The episode, titled “Antimicrobial resistance National Action Plans and the role of microbial genomics with Kate Baker and Tess Johnson,” is now available to listen to via The Lancet Microbe website. It can also be accessed through major platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.
Advancing Global and UK AMR Priorities
The episode explores key antimicrobial resistance (AMR) priorities in the UK National Action Plan (NAP) for AMR. It also examines how microbial genomics can help achieve these priorities, both in the UK and internationally.
Professor Kate Baker, Professor of Genomic Epidemiology at the University of Cambridge and Dr Tess Johnson, a bioethicist at the Ethox Centre, University of Oxford, describe the context in which AMR NAPs are developed in individual countries, with a particular focus on the UK.
They situate this within the global policy framework established by the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan (GAP) on AMR, first released in 2015, and its subsequent update adopted at the 79th World Health Assembly in 2026.
Insights from TARGetAMR’s Stakeholder workshop
A central feature of the episode is discussion of findings from a TARGetAMR stakeholder workshop. The workshop brought together interdisciplinary experts to examine how genomic technologies can contribute to achieving the UK AMR NAP’s priorities.
During the conversation, Professor Kate Baker and Dr Tess Johnson outline how microbial genomics can be mapped across all key pillars of the UK’s AMR strategy, including:
- Surveillance and monitoring
- Infection prevention and control
- Optimisation of antimicrobial use
- Research and innovation
Furthermore, they highlight the transformative potential of genomics to enhance our understanding of pathogen transmission, inform targeted interventions, and support more effective public health responses.
Beyond the UK: Global Relevance
The conversation also extends beyond the UK context, considering how these insights may translate to other national settings. In particular, Professor Kate Baker and Dr Tess Johnson reflect on the opportunities and limitations of applying UK-based findings globally. This is especially relevant for low- and middle-income countries, where resources, infrastructure, and health system capacities may differ.
As a result, the conversation highlights the importance of context-sensitive approaches to AMR policymaking. Ultimately, this global perspective reinforces TARGetAMR’s commitment to transdisciplinary and internationally relevant research, ensuring that advances in genomics can contribute to equitable and effective AMR strategies worldwide.
Listen Now
This podcast offers a valuable and accessible overview of how cutting-edge genomic science can inform real-world AMR policy. Therefore, making it essential listening for researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in tackling antimicrobial resistance.
Listen to the episode:
A full transcript is also available via The Lancet Microbe.
