Dr. Bay is an environmental microbiologist, lecturer and ARC DECRA fellow. He heads The Bay Group at La Trobe University, Melbourne. Dr. Bay's pioneering research focuses on how soil bacteria utilize atmospheric trace gases such as hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and methane to survive in energy-limited ecosystems, including deserts, glaciers, and caves. He earned his PhD from Monash University in 2020, investigating soil microbial diversity under the mentorship of Professor Chris Greening. Dr. Bay gained post-doctoral experience with a position at Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future (SAEF). Since early 2023, Dr. Bay has taken a position as lecturer and independent research fellow, established his research group. His research is widely published in leading journals and backed by competitive grants.