Aline Potiron

I’m Alien 👽, coming from the microbiology planet to visit the philosophy of science universe.

My research focuses on the conceptual foundations and societal implications of microbiology, bridging microbiology, philosophy, and history to address overlooked issues in human and planetary 🌍 health. I use a practice-oriented, interdisciplinary approach where scientific practice informs philosophical inquiry and vice versa.

Through microbial ecology and microbiome research case studies 🦠, I address philosophical issues while critically analysing microbiology to improve its practice. I investigate biological sample definition, microbial biodiversity measurement practices, causality and challenges to scientific integration.

I also examine how scientific categories—including race and ethno-racial descriptors—shape microbiome research and its societal impact. As part of the Microbiome research and race in the ‘Local South’ project, I use innovative conceptual mapping methods to decipher the field’s ethical and epistemic assumptions in the Latin American context. My aim is to propose conceptual solutions to help scientists avoid racism.