Explore the fascinating world of the skin microbiome in this 34-minute conference talk from the American Society for Microbiology. Delve into the complex relationship between our skin and its microbial inhabitants, examining how harsh environmental conditions affect bacterial survival and activity. Learn about the concept of bacterial dormancy and its implications for our body's first line of defense against pathogens. Join experts Sarah Cummins and Dr. Jay Lennon from Indiana University as they discuss their research findings, methodologies, and the percentage of dormant microbes on the skin. Gain insights into the metabolic activity of skin microbiota and explore ethical considerations in microbiome research. Discover how microbiome expertise is developed and how these concepts apply to various environments. Engage with audience questions covering topics such as microbiome dispersal, strain diversity, UV exposure effects, and the impact on bacterial dormancy.