The Plant Microbiology Group (MiP) was created within the Spanish Society of Microbiology with the main objective of promoting communication between research groups in the area of interactions between plants and microorganisms.

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In recent years, the extraordinary complexity of the interactions between plants and microorganisms has been revealed, and the similarity between the strategies and mechanisms used to establish these interactions by various phylogenetically distant microorganisms. One of the most notable examples has been the discovery that various epiphytic, symbiotic and pathogenic bacteria possess a sophisticated secretion system that allows them to transfer proteins into plant cells and modify the host's physiology for their own benefit. Understanding the mechanisms that allow this communication and the development of strategies that allow it to be manipulated are scientific challenges that will have a great impact in the near future and that have currently already sparked the interest and dedication of a good number of research groups in the global scope.

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In Spain there are also various research groups dedicated to the study of different aspects of the interactions between plants and microorganisms. The membership of these groups to diverse disciplines, together with the use of different study models, limits communication and scientific exchange. The Plant Microbiology Group was born with the aim of promoting the development of this area in Spain, as well as serving as a forum for the exchange of ideas and scientific collaboration between the various members that constitute it.

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The MiP promotes the holding of a biennial meeting, which is held in odd years, and facilitates contact between its members.