About Microbira

Microbira Ltd was founded in 2019 and is based in the UK. We use artificial intelligence (AI) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to make healthcare more efficient. We create rapid, low-cost, reagent-free in vitro diagnostic (IVD) tools for clinical and research use.

We combine infrared technology and advanced software to change how microorganisms are identified. Using FTIR spectroscopy and machine learning, we make affordable, accessible tools for healthcare providers, researchers and communities. Our goal is to fill gaps in the market, enable rapid antimicrobial resistance detection and improve strain typing. We also want to reduce healthcare inequalities and improve health outcomes worldwide.

Company history

Microbira Ltd was founded in 2019 and is based in the UK. We use AI and FTIR spectroscopy to develop rapid, low-cost, reagent-free IVD tools for healthcare and research.

In 2020, we started building the MAAP-IR web application. It achieved UKCA Class 1 certification in late 2021. After successful clinical validation with the NHS and international partners, we updated MAAP-IR and made it commercially available in the UK by the end of 2024.

We are working towards more regulatory clearances. We are also expanding into India to support its growing healthcare and research sectors. In 2025, we registered our business in India as Microbira India Pvt Ltd.

Our journey

2019

Microbira founded

2021

MAAP-IR UKCA marked

2022

International clinical validation begins

2024

Performance upgrade; commercially available

2025

ISO 13485 certified; Microbira India launched

Microbira India

In 2025, we launched Microbira India Pvt Ltd. We are currently present in three major cities and growing.

Our mission

Our mission is to change how microorganisms are identified, using infrared technology and innovative software. We want to provide accurate, easy-to-use and accessible identification tools. These help healthcare providers, researchers and industry make informed decisions for better health and scientific progress.

Our vision is to give healthcare providers, researchers and communities affordable and accessible tools to identify microorganisms. Using FTIR spectroscopy and machine learning, we aim to fill critical gaps in the market. This means rapid detection of antimicrobial resistance and accurate strain typing. We are committed to reducing healthcare inequalities and making advanced diagnostics available to all.

Our vision

Our team

Marianne Ismail

CEO

Marianne leads strategy, finance and business development. She holds a master’s in Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases from the University of Edinburgh.

Lisa Lam, PhD

Director of Science and Technology

Lisa leads research and development. She has a background in food science, clinical microbiology and data science, and a PhD in Clinical Microbiology from McGill University.

Jamie Yellen, PhD

Applied Data Scientist & Solutions Specialist

Jamie supports product development and deployment. He applies machine learning and computational techniques to complex scientific problems. Awarded PhD from the University of Glasgow.

Chris Cook, PhD

Head of Operations

Chris manages internal operations and acts as Quality Officer. He has a background in drug discovery and holds a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Manchester.

Beverley Scott

Regulatory Affairs

Beverley is a regulatory expert in software as a medical device and digital health.

Irill Ishak, PhD

Lead Scientist

Irill leads Microbira’s scientific work, bridging microbiology and machine learning to develop and refine the models. Awarded PhD in Bionanomaterials from the University of Bristol.