This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. We are more obsessed with cleanliness than ever: we use antibacterial cleansers, we keep our children away from dirt, and we give out antibiotics with little regard for longterm effects. But in the process we are altering our microbiota, the microbes that live on and inside us. And it's causing us to be more sick.

Claire M. Fraser, PhD, is a worldrenowned scientist who launched a new field of study – microbial genomics and, through her groundbreaking research and pioneering leadership in this field, has fundamentally changed our understanding of the diversity and evolution of microbial life on Earth. Her collective work over two decades, has made sustained and transformational changes to our understanding of microbial biology.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, selforganized events that bring people together to share a TEDlike experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, selforganized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are selforganized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)