SGM is a professional body for scientists who work in all areas of microbiology. It has over 5,000 members worldwide who are based in universities, industry, hospitals and research institutes.

The Society aims to encourage a greater public understanding of microbiology and biotechnology and it produces and distributes a wide range of resources to support microbiology teaching in schools and colleges across all Key Stages and post-16. It also runs training courses in practical microbiology for teachers and technicians and occasional workshops. The Society offers an information service to teachers and students and organizes schools competitions and other activities.

SGM is a member of the Association of Science Education and the British Association for the Advancement of Science. It regularly attends their events where it often also runs workshops and talks. SGM is a supporter of the Microbiology in Schools Advisory Committee (MISAC) for whom it acts as the secretariat.

SGM has a team of people dedicated to running the educational activities. When necessary they are able to take expert advice from the professional microbiologists who are Ordinary Members of the Society. This ensures that scientific accuracy is maintained and that projects reflect the current state of microbiological knowledge.

SGM education services include:

• Schools Membership
  
• Resources
  
• Training courses & workshops
  
• Competitions