Research

A majority of bacteria in the environment reside in complex communities called biofilms. Biofilms, in addition to being an important part of the ecosystem, impact humans in industry, agriculture, and medicine. Biofilms in these settings are problematic because they are extremely difficult to eradicate. Among the protective mechanisms of biofilm bacteria is their self-produced extracellular matrix, which encases the cells. My lab focuses on the protein component of this matrix, using the pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a model organism. Having identified candidate proteins, we aim to characterize the roles of these matrix proteins in biofilm formation and antimicrobial tolerance, using techniques in proteomics, genetics, molecular biology, and microscopy.

Expertise

Microbiology, Bacterial Physiology, Bacterial Communities

Degrees

Ph.D. Rockefeller University, New York, NY

Additional Information

WHI Lab Location: 232
WHI Lab Phone Number: 702-895-5782