Our research group is focused on elucidating bacterial adaptations for commensalism and immune evasion. Her work delves into the intricate interactions between bacteria and hosts, aiming to understand the evolution of virulence and commensal traits. With a particular interest in immune evasion strategies employed by bacteria, our research spans across diverse model systems, including Gram-negative gut and Gram-positive respiratory infection models. By studying pathogens like Salmonella enterica serovar Uganda and Streptococcus species, we investigate how these bacteria modulate the immune system and establish symbiotic relationships with hosts. This research not only sheds light on fundamental biological mechanisms but also holds promise for informing strategies to combat infections, especially in the context of global challenges such as antimicrobial resistance and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Current University of Strathclyde collaborators:

• Professor Paul Hoskisson
• Dr Ralf Bauer
• Dr Melanie Jimenez

External collaborators include:

• Professor Séamus Fanning (University College Dublin)
• Professor Mogens Kilian (Aarhus University)
• Professor Jeremy Brown (University College London)
• Professor Laurent Bozec (University of Toronto)
• Professor Ian Henderson (University of Queensland, Australia)
• Dr CJ Anderson (University of Edinburgh)
• Professor Hervé Tettelin (University of Maryland)
• Dr Jason Rosch (St Jude's Children's Hospital, Memphis)
• Centers for Disease Control, USA
• Health Protection Agency, UK
• Professor Jay Hinton (University of Liverpool)