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CORVALLIS, Ore. - The prevalence and importance of different microorganisms in distinct ecological systems is the focus of the 2006 James M. Craig Memorial Lecture at Oregon State University.

Michael Wagner, a professor of microbial ecology from the University of Vienna, will deliver the annual Craig Lecture on Wednesday, Oct. 25, in OSU's LaSells Stewart Center's Construction and Engineering Auditorium beginning at 7 p.m. It is free and open to the public.

The title of his lecture is "Microbes: the Hidden Powers on Planet Earth."

In his most recent research, Wagner has focused his studies on Chlamydiae, well-known human pathogens, which also are widely found in the environment. Wagner heads the Department of Microbial Ecology at the University of Vienna.

This annual lecture honors former microbiologist James M. Craig, who died in 1985 after four decades of research and contributions to the field of applied microbiology. It is sponsored by the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Department of Microbiology.

While at OSU, Wagner also will present a professional seminar for OSU faculty, staff and students on Oct. 26 called "The Evolutionary Links Between Chlamydiae and Anaerobic Ammonium Oxidizers: A Metagenomic Approach." It begins at 11 a.m. in Ag and Life Sciences Building Room 4001.