The European Academy of Microbiology (EAM) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our colleague and friend Ioannis Economidis. Ioannis Economidis, a true scientist and a gentle person, was responsible for biotechnology research funding, management and policy in the European Commission. He was a scientific officer of the highest calibre. At the same time, he was a gifted member of the arts and culture community.

He is considered by all who had the privilege to know him as an exceptionally charismatic colleague characterised by positivity, creativity, warmth and humour, a privilege marked exactly one year ago by an extraordinary tribute event organised by Victor de Lorenzo, EAM Fellow, and others.
He was one of the brightest stars in the funding agency sky, a star extinguished well before its time. His legacy is a benchmark for quality, professionalism, pragmatism and responsiveness in science funding and management. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his family and all those who love him.