Population Genomics Directed Dissection of Bacterial Pathogens

Our research strategy involves utilizing bacterial genomes from real-world (clinical) isolates to identify mutations underlying evolving traits, such as antibiotic resistance, transmission, and virulence. We then employ cutting-edge experimental microbiology methods to dissect the altered bacterial functions responsible for these evolved traits. Through these endeavors, we aim to uncover bacterial processes that can be targeted for the development of new vaccines, therapeutics, and public health intervention strategies.


Evolution of transmissibility 

Why is Mtb outstandingly successful in airborne transmission compared to its 'cousin' NTM species? How does a highly transmissible strain evolve?

a scanning image of a human cell

Canonical and non-canonical antibiotic resistance 

Drug-resistance evolution of Mtb in the clinical settings: what we don't know is hurting us.

a scanning image of a human cell

The Rising Cousins: Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) 

What are the ecological and evolutionary driving factors underlying the recent expansion of NTMs?

a scanning image of a human cell