Research
I am interested in microbial interactions, with a particular focus on inter-species interactions and co-evolution. My research plans focus on developing wet laboratory and computational methods to support co-evolution studies. Ultimately, I aim to use co-evolution to explore new avenues for antibiotic biosynthesis and development antimicrobial resistance.
I am always interested in developing new collaborations and applications for my work, contact me if you would like to discuss potential projects.
SCCmec Diversity in non-aureus staphylococci
Staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec), are mobile genetic elements responsible for conferring methicillin resistance in staphylococci and are highly diverse, with 15 types described. Non-aureus staphylococci can act as a reservoir for SCCmec, and often carry composite SCCmec elements. The exact prevalence, phylogenetic diversity and geographical spread of SCCmec in non-aureus staphylococci is unknown.
Recently the group was awarded a Harry Smith Vacation Studentship from the Microbiology Society. This will support our research analysing the diversity of SCCmec in non-aureus staphylococci.
