phd medical microbiology research topics

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Six Key Topics in Microbiology: 2024

This collection from the FEMS journals presents the latest high-quality research in six key topic areas of microbiology that have an impact across the world. All of the FEMS journals aim to serve the microbiology community with timely and authoritative research and reviews, and by investing back into the science community .

Interested in publishing your research relevant to the six key microbiology topics?

Learn more about why the FEMS journals are the perfect home for your microbiology research.

Browse the collection categories:

Antimicrobial resistance, environmental microbiology, pathogenicity and virulence, biotechnology and synthetic biology, microbiomes, food microbiology.

phd medical microbiology research topics

FEMS and Open Access: Embracing an Open Future

As of January 2024, FEMS has flipped four of its journals to fully open access (OA), making six out of its seven journals OA. FEMS Microbiology Letters remains a subscription journal and free to publish in.

We are excited to be making high quality science freely available to anyone to read anywhere in the world and further supporting the advancement of our discipline.

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About the PhD in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Program

Through a departmental core curriculum as well as research area-specific courses, laboratory rotations, qualifying examinations, mentored research, and professional development, all MMI PhD students are prepared to engage in cutting edge research and scholarship that advances knowledge. MMI PhD students hone their scholarship, research and professional skills. Course and laboratory work can address problems in microbial pathogenesis, immunology, disease transmission, and diseases related to malaria, mosquito and arboviral biology.

Students can choose to complete the traditional MMI PhD program or the MMI PhD program concentration in Rigorous, Reproducible, and Responsible Research Investigation in Immunology & Microbiology (R 3 IM). The concentration in Rigorous, Reproducible, and Responsible Research Investigation in Immunology & Microbiology (R 3 IM) conveys a broad background in immunology and infectious diseases research, with a special emphasis on critical thinking, logic, ethics, and written and oral skills to help graduates become communicators of complex scientific concepts and agents of change in their workplaces and communities.

What Can You Do With a Graduate Degree In Molecular Microbiology And Immunology?

Visit the Graduate Employment Outcomes Dashboard to learn about Bloomberg School graduates' employment status, sector, and salaries.

Sample Careers

Postdoctoral Fellow, Research Associate
Science Communicator or Writer
Scientist (academia, industry)
Specialist in Science Regulatory Affairs
Faculty, Professor
Science Advocate (nonprofit agencies)
Public Health Service (NIH, CDC, FDA)
Science Policy Fellow

Curriculum for the PhD in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology

Browse an overview of the requirements for this PhD program in the JHU Academic Catalogue and explore all course offerings in the Bloomberg School Course Directory .

Current students can view the MMI student handbook on the MMI portal site.

Topic Areas

MMI faculty are recognized experts in a wide variety of infectious diseases research areas, allowing our PhD students to study the biology of disease based on their research interests and career goals. Our PhD students gain a comprehensive understanding of infectious diseases that provides a foundation to launch careers that directly tackle critical public health challenges.

Topic Areas include:

Bacterial pathogenesis
Cell biology
Fungal pathogenesis
Medical entomology/Disease ecology
Parasite pathogenesis
Rigor, Reproducibility, and Responsibility in Scientific Practice
Tick-borne diseases
Vaccine development
Vector biology
Viral pathogenesis

Admissions Requirements

For general admissions requirements, please visit the How to Apply page.

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized test scores (GRE) are optional for this program. The admissions committee will make no assumptions if a standardized test score is omitted from an application, but will require evidence of quantitative/analytical ability through other application components such as academic transcripts and/or supplemental questions. Applications will be reviewed holistically based on all application components.

Vivien Thomas PhD Scholars

The Vivien Thomas Scholars Initiative (VTSI) is an endowed fellowship program at Johns Hopkins for PhD students in STEM fields. It provides full tuition, stipend, and benefits while also providing targeted mentoring, networking, community, and professional development opportunities. Students who have attended a historically Black college and university (HBCU) or other minority serving institution (MSI) for undergraduate study are eligible to apply. To be considered for the VTSI, you will need to submit a SOPHAS application, VTSI supplementary materials, and all supporting documents (letters, transcripts, and test scores) by December 1, 2023. VTSI applicants are eligible for an application fee waiver , but the fee waiver must be requested by November 15, 2023 and prior to submission of the SOPHAS application.

All full-time PhD students will receive the following support for all years of the program: stipend, full tuition, individual health insurance, University Health Services clinic fee, vision insurance, and dental insurance.

Need-Based Relocation Grants Students who are admitted to PhD programs at JHU starting in Fall 2023 or beyond can apply to receive a $1500 need-based grant to offset the costs of relocating to be able to attend JHU. These grants provide funding to a portion of incoming students who, without this money, may otherwise not be able to afford to relocate to JHU for their PhD program. This is not a merit-based grant. Applications will be evaluated solely based on financial need. View more information about the need-based relocation grants for PhD students .

Questions about the program? We're happy to help.

Ashley Choi , Senior Academic Coordinator

Alex Kim , Senior Academic Program Coordinator Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 615 North Wolfe Street, Room E5014 Baltimore, Maryland 21205 Fax: (410) 955-0105

Georgetown University Medical Center

PhD in Microbiology & Immunology

Through the PhD in Microbiology and Immunology, students will learn the dynamics of the host/parasite relationship, including the host defense systems, and the relationship of microorganisms to diseases. Upon graduation, students will have a firm foundation in methods, tools, and techniques for a career in research as well as mentorship from Georgetown University faculty who are leading experts in the field.

Our PhD program is customized to the student’s interests. Upon entering the program, students will meet with their advisors to plan their coursework and select laboratories for research rotations.

PhD students can receive merit-based aid through fellowship and assistantship awards. The awards cover tuition, stipend, student health insurance, and mandatory fees. An average of 2 students are awarded each year. Visit the Biomedical Graduate Education website for more information on PhD Funding.

Learn about the application process and requirements.

Learn about the required exams, research rotations, courses, and PhD Dissertation here.

Check the list of required and elective courses.

Course Schedule

Find an example course schedule.

Student Resources

Browse resources and opportunities for our students.

Get more information about the program and department.

Career Advancement

Our students benefit from the services of the Biomedical Graduate Education career office, including one-on-one advising, skills workshops, leadership programs and more to help them take the next step in their professions.

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Graduate Research Topics

Discovery, biosynthesis, and chemical ecology of microbial natural products; bioactivity and mode of action of antibiotics; biocatalyst development

Joseph A. Krzycki Biochemistry and molecular biology of methanogenic Archaea emphasizing methane formation and their genetic encoding of the novel amino acid pyrrolysine.

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Medical Microbiology and Immunology (Doctorate)

Doctorate, dual degree.

A scientist in a lab holding a filled syringe

Advance your understanding of the smallest physiological systems, their defenses and mechanisms, and the scientific method through Creighton University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology and Immunology program. Through extensive research, this PhD program prepares students to be highly qualified experts in medical microbiology and immunology.

Creighton provides the specialized equipment, resources and broad expertise of a large university, but with smaller class sizes. This advantage allows you to have regular interaction with faculty members and other students in your cohort, as well as additional hands-on training with research equipment and tools in the lab. You’ll be inspired to think critically about pressing topics, engage in conversations about research ethics and spark your creative inquiry. Research at Creighton is mission-driven, making your work part of a larger effort to serve others and create a more just world.

Your research interests drive the program

From genome replication to the study of disease-causing bacteria and viruses, this program involves extensive research of topics within the different fields of microbiology and immunology. After completing the program’s core coursework and electives, you’ll work with faculty to identify a topic that interests you, put together a research project, and submit a proposal for a grant from the National Institutes of Health.

A supportive—and leading edge—environment for research

As a student in this clinical medical microbiology and immunology program, you will have access to a wide variety of resources. Your professors will work closely with you—guiding your studies and acting as teachers, advisors and mentors throughout your degree and career. Many of our faculty members collaborate and work with students long after they earn their degree.

Creighton's state-of-the-art facilities, such as the BSL-3 biocontainment facility provide hands-on experiences that will help you develop skills to differentiate you after graduation.

12% projected growth in medical microbiology and immunology jobs in the next decade

Program Details

Program goals and curriculum.

Creighton’s PhD in Medical Microbiology and Immunology prepares students for a broad range of possible careers in research or as an educator in medical microbiology and immunology and related health science fields.

To earn this doctoral degree, you must complete 90 credit hours:

Foundations of Microbiology
Bacterial Physiology
Advanced Microbial Pathogenesis
Host Defense
Cellular and Molecular Immunology
Current Topics in Medical Microbiology and Immunology
Biostatistics
Department Seminar and Teaching (taken each semester)
Directed Independent Research for Doctoral Students
Doctoral Dissertation

Students who have already obtained their Master of Science in Medical Microbiology and Immunology may have a maximum of 30 credit hours transferred to the doctoral program.

Creighton’s Medical Microbiology and Immunology faculty are experts in research and instruction that relates to the intersection of microbial pathogenesis and host defense. Faculty works closely with staff, post-doctorates and students in an environment where individual and collective achievement through publications and presentations is encouraged.

Dual Degree and Master's Options

Master's program.

Master of Science in Medical Microbiology and Immunology (30 credits)

The courses required for the master’s degree serve as the foundation for the PhD program. Additional research and a doctoral dissertation are required to complete the doctoral program.
Students who have already completed the Master of Science in Medical Microbiology and Immunology program may have a maximum of 30 credit hours transferred to the doctoral program.
Available on campus only.

Dual Degree Programs

Students can complete a dual degree program to earn two degrees at once, saving both time and money. The following dual degree option is available in medical microbiology and immunology:

Medicine (Doctor of Medicine) + Medical Microbiology and Immunology

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission to the PhD in Medical Microbiology and Immunology program, applicants must:

Complete an application & submit a $50 application fee
Possess a bachelor’s degree in a related field with 3.0 GPA or higher
Include coursework in biological and chemical sciences, and have a strong foundation in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology and biochemistry
Provide official transcripts from all educational institutions attended. Read more about sending transcripts here
Include a resume or curriculum vitae
Submit a personal statement (see application for specific requirements)
Submit three letters of recommendation from persons other than friends or family members

A personal interview may be requested in addition to the above requirements. The interview may be conducted in-person or virtually.

International students are welcomed into this program and F-1 visas will be supported upon admission.

International applicants must:

Meet English language proficiency requirements
Complete and submit a Certification of Available Finances Form through the Global Engagement Office if admitted

Tuition & Financial Aid

Tuition is waived and health insurance is provided for students accepted into Creighton’s Doctorate in Medical Microbiology and Immunology program. A stipend is also provided for students in the PhD program.

Have questions? Email or call a friendly financial specialist at 402.280.2731 for any additional questions you may have.

Dates and Deadlines

The table below details the enrollment deadline and starting date of courses for the current academic year. If you have any questions about dates, deadlines, or application materials, please contact an admissions advisor for personalized assistance.

Related Programs

Master of Science in Medical Microbiology and Immunology

Department Links

Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department

Still Have Questions?

Let's Take the Next Steps Together

Research Areas

Research underway in our department involves the rigorous study of bacterial, fungal, protozoan, and viral pathogens. Organisms under study are: Toxoplasma gondii , Neisseria gonorrhoeae , Mycobacterium sp. , Brucella sp., Listeria , Blastomyces , Aspergillus , Cryptococcus neoformans , Candida , influenza virus, Herpes simplex, and uropathogenic Escherichia coli . Faculty also investigate diverse immunological topics such as the sexual dimorphism of immune responses, regulatory T cell biology, leukocyte migration, and vaccine development. Recently, outstanding research groups have been established to address symbiotic relationships between bacteria and animals and the influence of the microbiome on wound healing. Since the Department’s establishment in 1935, our faculty have made fundamental contributions to the study of infectious disease and immunity. Our current faculty demographic reveals a melting pot of well-established, recognized leaders in the field, a consistently productive group of mid-level faculty, and a new group of junior faculty who are poised to step to the fore and represent our department well into the future.

MMI provides an exceptional learning environment for undergraduates through rigorous coursework and research opportunities. Graduate students may earn a Ph.D. through the MMI co-sponsored, nationally acclaimed Microbiology Doctoral Training Program. The success of our instructional efforts is evident from the excellent student evaluations and ratings, the numerous teaching awards garnered by our faculty, and the doctoral training program’s ranking of first among U.S. public institutions and third nationwide.

Bacterial Pathogenesis

Our mechanistic understanding of bacterial pathogenesis is fundamental to our ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent bacterial diseases. Moreover, as rapidly evolving populations of antibiotic-resistant bacteria spread worldwide, efforts made by our microbiologists to elucidate the genetic, molecular, and cellular elements responsible for a bacterium’s virulence become increasingly vital to our survival. Our faculty explore the mechanistic basis of pathogenesis for such prominent pathogens as enterohemorrhagic E. coli and uropathogenic E. coli, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Listeria monocytogenes. How these organisms colonize and invade host cells or tissues, cause damage to their hosts, and elude or alter host immune responses represent the primary themes under which more focused, innovative investigations are led by our bacterial pathogenesis faculty.

Fungal Pathogenesis

Our survival is inexorably linked to the Kingdom Fungi. Among its many essential roles, fungi contribute to the global recycling of nutrients, the generation of enzymes used in food production, and the production of antimicrobials. Few of the thousands of known fungal species are capable of causing disease, and yet life-threatening infections caused by these pathogens are increasingly prevalent. The ease with which Candida may form biofilms on medical devices contributes to its persistence among nosocomial infections. Pulmonary and systemic infections caused by Aspergillus, Blastomyces, Cryptococcus, and Histoplasma are often misdiagnosed or diagnosed too late to respond effectively to treatment. Resistance to common antifungals is growing. Our fungal pathogenesis faculty seek to alleviate the global burden of fungal infections by understanding and manipulating the dynamic interplay between fungal pathogen and host.

Anyone who has overcome a bout of the flu or received a vaccination can appreciate the essential, protective role of the immune system. Yet, the simple idea of an individual’s ability to protect itself from foreign agents becomes exponentially more complex when studied at a cellular and molecular level. MMI immunology faculty are no strangers to the labyrinthine world of cells, molecules, and signaling pathways that act in our defense. Some of our faculty focus on broadly applicable immunological phenomena such as the contribution of NKT cell autoreactivity to tolerance, the regulatory role of gamma delta T cells, or mechanisms of leukocyte migration. Other MMI immunology faculty study host-pathogen relationships, often in the context of reliably adapted animal models. The development and efficacy of Blastomyces dermatitidis and Borrelia burgdorferi vaccines, the contribution of innate and adaptive cellular responses to resistance in African trypanosomiasis, and the manipulation of innate immune cells by Toxoplasma gondii constitute a few of the research foci within the context of specific infectious diseases.

Parasitology

Protozoan and helminth parasitic diseases afflict billions of people globally and are collectively one of the greatest burdens on human health and well being. For instance, the World Health Organization estimates ~200 million yearly cases of malaria with ~1 million fatalities. African trypanosomiasis is currently less of a direct threat to human health but represents a huge brake on economic development as a veterinary pathogen in sub-Saharan Africa. Toxoplasma infects more than 60 million people in the United States without direct consequences in healthy individuals, but it can be life threatening in immunosuppressed individuals (e.g., transplantation, HIV). These parasites and others are increasingly a concern due to globalization. American trypanosomiasis, for example, is a potential issue in the U.S. from transfusion and transplantation. MMI faculty focus on the innate cell biology of protozoan parasites, on the interplay of host and pathogen, and on the immunobiology of host responses. It our broadly defined mission to contribute to the knowledge base that will ultimately alleviate the burden of these deadly and devastating pathogens

Cooperative symbiotic relationships between humans and bacteria have historically been overlooked in the face of our struggle with bacterial pathogens. Yet, the bacteria that call our body “home” aid our survival against these pathogens by, for instance, competing with them for space and nutrients. Examples of cooperative and pathogenic relationships between organisms exist throughout the natural world, and our symbiosis faculty lead the way in studying animal:bacteria symbioses. This cooperative research group uses the colonization of the light organ of the squid Euprymna scolopes by the marine luminescent bacterium Vibrio fischeri as a model system to investigate the mechanisms underlying these complex relationships.

From the persistently annoying nasal congestion of the common cold viruses to the swift lethality of the Ebola virus, human viral diseases run the gamut of severity and affect all areas of human health. Virologists in the MMI department study some of our most notorious viral foes including HIV, influenza virus, herpes simplex virus, and hepatitis C virus. Using a variety of genetic, biochemical, and immunological techniques, our virology faculty unravel the pathogenesis of, and immune response to, these ingenious microbes.

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Collection 10 March 2022

Top 100 in Microbiology

This collection highlights our most downloaded* microbiology papers published in 2021. Featuring authors from around the world, these papers showcase valuable research from an international community.

*Data obtained from SN Inights, which is based on Digital Science's Dimensions.

The in-vitro effect of famotidine on SARS-CoV-2 proteases and virus replication

Madeline Loffredo
Hector Lucero
Ali H. Munawar

In vitro efficacy of artemisinin-based treatments against SARS-CoV-2

Yuyong Zhou
Kerry Gilmore
Peter H. Seeberger

Identification of CRF89_BF, a new member of an HIV-1 circulating BF intersubtype recombinant form family widely spread in South America

Elena Delgado
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Michael M. Thomson

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MRC5 cells engineered to express ACE2 serve as a model system for the discovery of antivirals targeting SARS-CoV-2

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A descriptive analysis of antimicrobial resistance patterns of WHO priority pathogens isolated in children from a tertiary care hospital in India

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Metagenomic identification of a new sarbecovirus from horseshoe bats in Europe

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Comprehensive study of antimicrobial susceptibility pattern and extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) prevalence in bacteria isolated from urine samples

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A PCR amplicon-based SARS-CoV-2 replicon for antiviral evaluation

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An inter-laboratory study to investigate the impact of the bioinformatics component on microbiome analysis using mock communities

Denise M. O’Sullivan
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Microplastics accumulate fungal pathogens in terrestrial ecosystems

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The lower respiratory tract microbiome of critically ill patients with COVID-19

Paolo Gaibani
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Functional profiling of COVID-19 respiratory tract microbiomes

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Comparative evaluation of 19 reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification assays for detection of SARS-CoV-2

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Respiratory viral co-infections among SARS-CoV-2 cases confirmed by virome capture sequencing

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Identification of ebselen and its analogues as potent covalent inhibitors of papain-like protease from SARS-CoV-2

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The Edible Plant Microbiome represents a diverse genetic reservoir with functional potential in the human host

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Blockade of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-mediated cell–cell fusion using COVID-19 convalescent plasma

Dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 mutations reveals regional-specificity and similar trends of N501 and high-frequency mutation N501Y in different levels of control measures

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Lactobacillus reuteri AN417 cell-free culture supernatant as a novel antibacterial agent targeting oral pathogenic bacteria

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CRISPR-based transcriptional activation tool for silent genes in filamentous fungi

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An immortalized porcine macrophage cell line competent for the isolation of African swine fever virus

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The potential of COVID-19 patients’ sera to cause antibody-dependent enhancement of infection and IL-6 production

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Asymptomatic COVID-19 Adult Outpatients identified as Significant Viable SARS-CoV-2 Shedders

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Bacterial associations in the healthy human gut microbiome across populations

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Emergence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants in the Netherlands

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Induction of interferon response by high viral loads at early stage infection may protect against severe outcomes in COVID-19 patients

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Early life dietary intervention in dairy calves results in a long-term reduction in methane emissions

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The relationships between microbiota and the amino acids and organic acids in commercial vegetable pickle fermented in rice-bran beds

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Response of bacterial and fungal communities to high petroleum pollution in different soils

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A streamlined clinical metagenomic sequencing protocol for rapid pathogen identification

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Sensitive detection and quantification of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva

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Whole genome sequencing of clinical samples reveals extensively drug resistant tuberculosis (XDR TB) strains from the Beijing lineage in Nigeria, West Africa

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The SARS-CoV-2 viral load in COVID-19 patients is lower on face mask filters than on nasopharyngeal swabs

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Metagenomics analysis of bacteriophages and antimicrobial resistance from global urban sewage

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Genomic evolution of antimicrobial resistance in Escherichia coli

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Bispecific repurposed medicines targeting the viral and immunological arms of COVID-19

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Comparative analysis of the diagnostic performance of five commercial COVID-19 qRT PCR kits used in India

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A rapid near-patient detection system for SARS-CoV-2 using saliva

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In vitro and in vivo inhibition of malaria parasite infection by monoclonal antibodies against Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (CSP)

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Covid-19 diagnosis by combining RT-PCR and pseudo-convolutional machines to characterize virus sequences

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Doing a PhD in Microbiology

What Does a PhD in Microbiology Focus On?

The exact focus of a PhD in microbiology can vary greatly, reflecting the nature of the field of study as a whole. Microbiology is defined as the study of microbes. Microbes are living organisms that are too small to be visible to the naked eye, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

From diseases to the production of food, microorganisms such as these play a vital role in life as we know it. The role of microbiologists includes treating and preventing infections, tracking the role of microbes in climate changes, ensuring food is safe.

A microbiology PhD programme can include:

Molecular bacteriology – which focuses on bacterial pathogens of humans. A PhD in this field could involve studying the cellular biology of bacteria and investigating how they interact with the human immune system.
Virology – which is the study of viruses. A PhD in virology typically revolves around infectious diseases and developing our understanding of the way viruses function.
Molecular biology – where a student could learn about the composition and processes of cells. Research into cell biology has a wide range of application such as gene therapy, and planning effective targeting for new disease treatments.
Mycology – which is the study of fungi. Postgraduate research in mycology could see researchers looking at the genetic properties of fungi to develop new tools to monitor and control their toxicity.
Environmental microbiology – which focuses on the role microbes play in the environment. A PhD programme in environmental microbiology could conduct research into biofuels and bioremediation of contaminated land. Alternatively, it could focus on the monitoring of diseases in algae or coral reefs.
Biogeochemisty – which studies the chemical, geological and biological process within the natural environment. Doctoral students in this field could investigate the emission of methane from microbes and how they contribute to climate change.

These are just a few of the areas a PhD in microbiology can specialise in. There are many others with medical, agricultural, environmental and commercial applications. Research projects typically revolve around lab work, and involve coordinating with another faculty or school within the university, and working alongside microbiologists, immunologists, biologists, biomedical scientists, and chemists.

Browse PhDs in Microbiology

A next-generation genetic technology to identify biotechnologically-valuable enzymes and transporters, development of fluorescent organic molecules for application in super-resolution imaging techniques, ubiquitin-dependent signalling pathways in ageing, speciation in facultatively sexual species, energy dissipation in human soft tissue during impacts, entry requirements for a phd in microbiology.

Basic requirements are typically a strong (2:1) Master’s degree in a relevant subject from an accredited university. Due to the scope of microbiology, relevant subjects can include biology, biochemistry, biomedical science, civil engineering, geoscience, medicine, agriculture, and earth sciences .

International students will also need to meet several minimum English language requirements set by the university, usually as part of a TOEFL or IELTS exam.

It is a good idea to think about your research interest before deciding to apply for a PhD in microbiology. For example, an undergraduate degree in medicine would be a good foundation ahead of a microbiology PhD programme focusing on the interaction of microbes and the human immune system. Alternatively, a graduate student of civil engineering would be suited for a research project investigating the degradation of crude oil in petroleum reserves.

Duration and Programme Types

The typical duration for a microbiology PhD programme is 3-4 years full-time, or 6 years part-time. In addition to the microbial research, most PhD programmes also include lectures and seminars which aim to equip postgraduates with transferable research skills such as project management, academic writing and commercial awareness.

A postgraduate microbiology course involves conducting original research in this area; therefore, applicants can expect to be involved in lab work. Most universities have the facilities for you to work on-campus, however some specialist subjects may require working at dedicated research centres. However, it is important to read the details of the research programme you are interested in. Though most programmes have a focus on lab work, other courses can be computational or statistical in nature. Therefore, the exact requirements for doing a PhD in microbiology depend greatly on the specific project.

Costs and Funding

The cost of doing a PhD in microbiology will depend on the university you study with, but average tuition fee is £4000-£6000 per academic year for UK/EU students and £20,000-£28,000 per academic year for international students.

A variety of scholarship and funding support options are available for postgraduate study. For microbiology in particular the BBSRC Doctoral Training Partnerships oversee a number of PhDs, and provide tuition fees for postgraduate research students. Each university has their own funding sources, which are advertised on their websites.

Available Career Paths

A research degree in microbiology can lead to a variety of career paths and jobs, so microbiologists can be found in a wide range of industries. The lab work nature of most PhD programmes equips you with the necessary skills for the research and development industry. Options for R&D work include specialist research areas such as molecular microbiology, microbial physiology, microbial pathogenesis, molecular genetics and immunology. Generally, the typical microbiology salary is higher in R&D than in the public sector.

Many post doctorates work in clinical setting such as medical laboratories and hospitals, operating as biomedical scientists or clinical scientists. In this setting you could expect to test samples to diagnose infections or develop treatments and vaccines.

Another career path for microbiology doctorates includes environmental science. Microbes contribute greatly to global warming, and microbiologists investigate the way in which microbes affect the atmosphere. Microbes can also be used for biofuel and for land decontamination.

Some doctorates choose to pursue microbiology jobs in agriculture, investigating the role of microbes in soil, developing techniques to contain plant pests, and preventing infectious disease in cattle. Alternatively, food manufacturing factors often look for microbiologists to oversee manufacturing processes to ensure the quality and safety of their products.

Postgraduate research often leads to a career in academia. Being a lecturer at a university is a great way to share your knowledge with others, and allows you to propose research projects and supervise PhD students to continue your research.

As mentioned previously, most microbiology PhD courses include research skill modules which equip doctorates with transferable skills which can be applied outside of the career options described above. Effective communication, project management, and research skills allow PhD students to work in any field.

Due to the wide range of microbiology jobs available, microbiology doctorates can expect a generous salary. The salary of microbiologists working for the NHS is determined by a set of pay bands , which include around £40,000 upon qualification and can exceed £100,000 at the highest pay band.

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33 New Medical microbiology project topics

Medical microbiology plays a crucial role in understanding and combating infectious diseases. Conducting a well-planned and meaningful project in this field is essential for advancing our knowledge and finding innovative solutions.

Choosing the right project topic is a critical first step in ensuring the success and impact of your research. In this article, we will explore various medical microbiology project topic ideas, research methodologies, project planning, data analysis, and more.

Importance of Medical Microbiology Projects

Medical microbiology projects contribute significantly to our understanding of pathogens, antimicrobial resistance, host-microbe interactions, and disease mechanisms.

By conducting research in this field, we can unravel the mysteries of infectious diseases and develop strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Significance of Choosing the Right Topic

Selecting an appropriate project topic is paramount to the success of your research. It should align with your interests, address a relevant research gap, and have practical implications .

The right topic will not only engage you throughout the project but also contribute valuable insights to the field of medical microbiology.

33 intriguing project topic ideas to consider

Here’s a non-exhaustive list of medical microbiology project topics for undergraduates and MSc students.

Topic 1: Investigating the Role of Gut Microbiota in Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases have been linked to alterations in the gut microbiota. This project aims to explore the relationship between gut microbiota composition and the development, progression, and management of autoimmune diseases.

By studying microbial diversity, immune responses, and metabolomic profiles, we can gain valuable insights into potential therapeutic interventions.

Topic 2: Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Common Pathogens

Antibiotic resistance poses a significant global health threat. This project focuses on investigating the antibiotic resistance patterns of common pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in a local hospital setting.

By identifying the prevalent resistance mechanisms and associated risk factors, we can optimize antimicrobial therapy and develop strategies for infection control.

Topic 3: Impact of Microbial Biofilms on Chronic Wound Infections

Biofilms play a crucial role in chronic wound infections, leading to treatment challenges.

Project Planning and Execution

Once you have chosen a project topic , it is essential to plan and execute your research effectively.

This involves setting clear objectives and goals, designing appropriate experiments and protocols, and considering ethical aspects. Collaborating with experts in the field can enhance the quality and impact of your research.

Data Interpretation and Analysis

After collecting data, it is crucial to analyze and interpret the findings accurately. Statistical analysis and data visualization techniques can help identify trends, patterns, and statistical significance.

Ensuring the validity and reliability of your results is essential for drawing meaningful conclusions.

Discussion and Conclusion

In the discussion section, interpret the significance of your research findings in the context of existing literature.

Compare and contrast your results with previous studies, highlight limitations, and propose future directions.

Conclude your project by summarizing key findings, emphasizing their implications, and discussing potential applications in medical microbiology.

How do I choose the right medical microbiology project topic?

To choose the right project topic, consider your interests, relevance to the field, and potential impact. Research current trends and gaps in medical microbiology, consult with mentors and select a topic that aligns with your goals.

What are the ethical considerations in medical microbiology research?

Ethical considerations include obtaining informed consent, ensuring patient confidentiality, following ethical guidelines and regulations, and conducting research with integrity and transparency.

How can I ensure the validity of my research findings?

To ensure validity, employ rigorous experimental design, use appropriate controls, validate methods, replicate experiments, analyze data critically, and consider potential biases and confounding factors.

Can I collaborate with other researchers on my project?

Collaboration with other researchers is encouraged as it brings diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives to your project. Collaborative efforts can enhance the quality and impact of your research.

How can I present my project findings effectively?

To present your project findings effectively, prepare clear and concise visual aids, practice your presentation, engage with your audience, and highlight the significance and implications of your research.

Conducting a medical microbiology project provides an opportunity to contribute to scientific knowledge and make a positive impact in the field of healthcare.

By selecting a compelling topic, planning your research, analyzing data diligently, and engaging in meaningful discussions, you can successfully execute a project that advances our understanding of infectious diseases and leads to improved patient outcomes.

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177 Captivating Microbiology Research Topics For Your Paper

Selecting microbiology research topics is the first step in the process of completing academic studies. Microbiology is among the fields that experts are constantly actively researching. It deals with microorganisms’ study, from single-cell organisms to eukaryotic fungi. When pursuing a course in microbiology, educators ask learners to write academic papers on varied topics. It is not easy to write a research paper for a high grade. However, choosing the best microbiology topics is not that simple due to the vast scope of this study field. But the issue that a college or university student selects dictates the direction of their project. If struggling to choose the best microbiology topics for research paper, this list should inspire you.

Medical Microbiology Research Paper Topics

Perhaps, you’re interested in medical microbiology. In that case, consider these interesting topics in medical microbiology.

Probiotics study and preparation
How to prevent sickle cell anemia
Analyzing the growth of mold
The ability of cinnamon and curry to hinder bacterial growth
How manure, polythene, and fertilizers affect the rate of hypocotyl elongation
How oil spills affect ocean organisms
Toxicity testing in marine pollutants with daphnia
Reproduction of yeast in sugar substitutes
Tendrils thigmotropism
The effect of light on yeast
Mold growth in cheese
Dog drool and germs
In which ground beef is bacteria level low?
Isolating staphylococcus aurous from pasteurized and raw milk
How garlic affects bacteria
Effective ways to disinfect a toothbrush
Investigating the spread of infectious diseases like Ebola
Effects of vitamin C on fruits rotting rate

These are exciting topics in microbiology and human health. Nevertheless, take your time to research any of these ideas to develop a winning paper.

Microbiology Research Topics for Undergraduates

Maybe you’re pursuing an undergraduate course in microbiology. That means your educator will ask you to write a research paper at some point. Here are brilliant microbiology ideas to consider for your essays.

Rebuilding microbiota during AMR infection treatment
Risks of soil contaminants on above and below-ground ecosystems
Effects of smoking or vaping on COVID-19, SARS, and Cov-2 results
How metal nanoparticles affect multi-species biofilm consortia
The involvement of oral bacteria in chronic periodontitis
The eukaryotic activity elucidating topoisomerase in the recombination of homologous
Protective lung tissue memory’s induction mechanisms in influenza
The role of oral bacteria in cardiovascular disease
Dual warhead antimicrobials in nutrient-mediated delivery
Skin-facing antimicrobial devices in surgery during additive manufacture
The use of CryoEM in pathogen transport and resistance study
Isolation and characterization of microorganisms
Microbial examination in spoilt avocado- What does it reveal?
Polymerase chain reaction used in the diagnosis of infectious diseases
Phytochemical and antimicrobial screening of seed and coat of Citrus Sinensis
Effects of microbiology on mining
How bacteria colonize the human skin
Antibacterial activity of sweet orange on staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli from wound infection
Bacteria’s susceptibility to antibiotics
The oil project and bush pear analysis

Pick any of these ideas for your research paper if pursuing an undergraduate degree. Nevertheless, prepare to research the title you choose to develop a winning piece.

PhD Research Topics in Microbiology

A microbiology PhD should prepare the learner to select medical, dental, or health studies to venture into biotechnology or pharmaceutical fields. Here are exciting thesis topics for microbiology students.

Microbial biofilms- Fungal and bacteria pathogens in environmental substrates and biomaterials
Bacterial cell fate manipulation- Signal transduction and surface sensing role
Salmonella typhi susceptibilities to hot aqueous extract from Hibiscus sabdariffa and antibiotics
Toxins characterization and isolation using Cronobacter species
Bacillus Thuringiensis and Rhizobium etli biocontrol potential
Engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain construction to improve the production of whole-cell biocatalytic of melibiose
Cyclic utilization in biotransformation
Electro-activated solutions’ antibacterial activity
Understanding the Swine flu pandemic from a microbiology perspective
Investigating typhoid fever and risk factors in kids

Please choose a topic in this category and use it as the basis of your PhD. Nevertheless, prepare to invest time and resources in your research to develop a winning paper.

Microbiology Research Topics for College Students

Are you a college student looking for a microbiology paper topic? If yes, here are sample topics to consider for your paper.

Evaluating changes in Ebola
Understanding Pfiesteria piscicida subtle health effects on the worldwide population
Has the world lost the battle with malaria?
Horizontal genetic exchange role in the bacterial mutation
Understanding genetic engineering applications in the food supply chain
Analyzing genetic engineering applications in antibodies to work as enzymes
Investigating generic allegiances- Peanut allergies case study
Alternative targets development for vaccines
Prevalence and history of HIV in Africa
Biotechnology potential in smart tech
Endolithic bacteria study in low-temperature places- Making life existence case on mars
Understanding nitric oxide role in the immune system
Understanding the development of superantigens and their applications
Evaluating autoimmune disease patterns in the last decade
How different carbon sources affect antimicrobial-producing Bacillus Species
Antimicrobial susceptibility and prevalence of Gram-Negative Bacterial in urine
Possible control and prevention of intestinal Schistosomiasis
Damage and safety of water
The antibacterial activity of medicated soaps
Yogurt’s microbial contamination

Please select any of the ideas in this list and then develop it via extensive research to write a fantastic paper.

New Research Topics in Microbiology

Maybe you’re interested in the newest idea for research. If so, consider these latest research topics in microbiology.

Dengue fever vaccine development
Hypoxia and hypoxia-inducible factors in cancer patients’ stem cell maintenance
The laboratory role of Leptospirosis reference
The mechanisms and consequences of Reovorus cell killing
Protein and peptide nanocluster vaccines
Formulation and delivery techniques for mRNA vaccines
Memory lymphocyte in genital immunity- T cells’ role in tissue-resident memory
Investigating the Lassa virus genetics
Physiological and pathological functions in innate immune systems of CARD 9 signaling
Signaling outcomes in RIP Kinase during neuro-invasive virus infection
Structures of type II secretion system in needle filaments
The manipulation of death pathways in hot cells by the Herpes Simplex virus
The modification of the cell wall by antifungal drugs
Sensing tissue damage by Myeloid c-type lectin receptors
Virus-like particle immunization for respiratory viruses and protozoan parasites
Campylobacter biofilm and quorum sensing in molecular mechanisms
Natural competence transfer and campylobacter horizontal gene
Investigating marine models for innate immune response and resistance colonization in campylobacter jejuni infections
The role of iBALT in respiratory immunity
Pyroptosis antiviral immunity

These are some of the latest topics to consider for microbiology research papers. However, each of these ideas requires extensive research to write an essay that will earn you the top grade.

Hot Research Paper Topics in Microbiology

Do you want to write a research paper on one of the hottest topics? If yes, consider these ideas for your project.

Risk assessment for environmental organisms and the essence of knowledge and control
Growth and survival of Salmonella during the processing of partially sprouted products and chia powders
Innoculation protocols for low moisture foods
Listeria survival and growth in newly cut vegetables
Investigating starch specificities, fermentation, and enzyme activities
Onions’ microorganisms study
Studying the correlation of Plasmodium species
How to diagnose human immunodeficiency virus
Investigating bacteria that can withstand antibiotics
Yogurts’ microbiological study during commercial preparation
Wetland bacterial properties and functionalities
Cyanophycin study- A bacterial polymer
Microbiology and its role in the prevention of life-threatening illnesses
Microbial analysis of Shea butter
Tapeworms’ research- What are their dangers?
The spread of influenza in the world- How it affected wars?
Restriction-modification in cellular microbiology
Microscope invention- How it improved microbiology knowledge
Applied microbiology- Generation of biofuels using microorganisms
Role of microbiology in pharmaceutical and food industries

Select and work with any of these great topics to impress the educator to award you the top grade in your class.

Environmental and Marine Microbiology Research Topics

Maybe you love researching and writing about ecological and marine microbiology. If so, consider these topic ideas for your research papers.

Wastewater and water treatment- What are the target microorganisms?
Marginal water reclamation and treatment
Greenhouse gases mitigation and biofiltration
Greenhouse gases sources
Biowaste nutrient recovery
Bio-remediation of water bodies and soils in arid environments
Bio-methane production using dry climates animal wastes
Desert rocks microbial inhabitants
The role of bacterial diversity in the maintenance of functional ecosystems in arid areas
How rain events affect microbial activity, abundance, and diversity
Cycling nitrogen in dry soils
Desert soil crust role in nutrient cycling
Interrelationships between soil bacteria and plants and their effects on biochemical cycling
Microorganisms in phyllosphere and rhizosphere in desert plants
Characterization of marine viruses
Marine biofouling microbial aspects

Students can work on these topics by researching them carefully before writing academic papers.

Food Microbiology Research Topics

If interested in food microbiology, this category has some of the best ideas for you to explore.

How temperature affects viruses’ survival in vegetables and food to help in virus contamination comprehension
Evaluating process water usage as the marker for determining freshly-cut greens’ contamination status
Investigating the initial contamination, time, temperature, sanitizing rinses, indigenous microflora, and package atmosphere on E.coli’s behavior in leafy greens
How temperature and time combine to stimulate the germination of spores in c. botulinum
How cleaning procedures and physical augmentation remove bacillus spores in food matrices
Norovirus and cross-contamination in the foodservice procures for preparing fresh produce
Examining virus and abiotic surfaces in the food processing and service sectors
How to improve sprout food safety
Growth and survival of Listeria in freshly-cut vegetables
Nonthermal and thermal resistance of Shiga-Toxin producing Coli and Salmonella Enterica in low-moisture foods
How water and temperature activity affect Salmonella during storage and drying of Botanical products
Norovirus surrogates mitigation in berries using minimal high hydrostatic pressure and freeze-drying treatment
Bacterial pathogen mechanisms of internalization into freshly-cut fruits
Low moisture foods inoculation protocols

Work on any of these topics if interested in a project that involves exploring food and microbiology ideas.

Immunology Microbiology Research Topics

Perhaps, you want to write a research paper on an immunology and microbiology topic. If so, consider these brilliant ideas for your essay.

Human diseases and bacteria
Cell biology and bacterial physiology
Human health and microbiology
Investigating parasite effects on human healthy
Human diseases and viruses
Genetics of microorganisms
Studying eukaryotic pathogens and diseases
Molecular microbiology and experimental approaches
Investigating different parasitism mechanisms
What is advanced immunology?

Select any topic in this category and perform extensive research to provide valid and relevant information that will impress the educator to award you the best grade.

Easy Microbiology Research Topics

Maybe you want a topic you’ll have an easy time working on and writing a quality paper. If so, consider these ideas for your research paper.

How time and temperature stimulate toxin production by C. botulinum spores
Effects of temperature on virus survival in fruits and vegetables
Methodology and techniques for future virus studies
The role of Redox-active metabolites in microbial signaling
The emergence and essence of yeast in preservatives within the baking industry
Non-conventional uses of yeast in the wine-manufacturing sector
Microbiota- The role of bifidobacteria’s role in the human body
Microbes interactions- The study of human microbial ecosystems
The impact of viruses on the health of large animals
How bacterial interactions affect cell social behavior and interaction
How cleaning procedures impact Bacillus spores
Desiccated Salmonella’s survival in moist and dry food processing places
A comparative analysis of Listeria monacytogenes survival in the food manufacturing environments
What determines the transfer rate for Salmonella sp. From butter to foods?
Cross-contamination investigation of norovirus during service procedures within the food industry
How human fungal pathogen’s genetic variation cause phenotypic diversity that affects diseases
How microbiology research has helped humans in preventing life-threatening diseases

Any of these ideas can be a brilliant topic for a research paper. However, careful research and dedication are necessary to write a top-notch essay.

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Home > Life Sciences > Microbiology and Molecular Biology > Theses and Dissertations

Microbiology and Molecular Biology Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2024 2024.

Characterization of Cellular Metabolism Regulation by the Transcription Factor Centromere Binding Factor 1 (Cbf1) , Spencer Ellsworth

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Elucidating the Architecture of the TclIJN Complex that Converts Cysteine to Thiazoles in the Biosynthesis of Micrococcin , Diana G. Calvopina Chavez

Manipulating and Assaying Chromatin Architecture Around Enhancer Elements in vivo , John Lawrence Carter

Halophilic Genes that Impact Plant Growth in Saline Soils , Mckay A. Meinzer

Characterizing Stress Granule Regulation by PAS Kinase, Ataxin-2 and Ptc6 and Investigating the Lifespan of Covid-19 Virus on Currency , Colleen R. Newey

Changes in RNA Expression of HuT78 Cells Resulting From the HIV-1 Viral Protein R R77Q Mutation , Joshua S. Ramsey

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Biofilm Characterization and the Potential Role of eDNA in Horizontal Gene Transfer in Hospital and Meat Isolates of Staphylococcus aureus and Their Biofilms , Ashley Lynne Ball

Novel Patterns for Nucleosome Positioning: From in vitro to in vivo , David Andrew Bates

The Effects of Polymorphisms of Viral Protein R of HIV-1 on the Induction of Apoptosis in Primary Cells and the Characterization of Twelve Novel Bacillus anthracis Bacteriophage , Jacob D. Fairholm

Analysis of the Cytopathogenic Effect of Different HIV-1 Vpr Isoforms on Primary Human CD4+ T Cells and a Model Cell Line , Jonatan Josue Fierro Nieves

The Role of Chitinase A in Mastitis-Associated Escherichia coli Pathogenesis , Weston D. Hutchison

Big Data Meta-Analyses of Transcriptional Responses of Human Samples to Orthohantavirus Infection and Shotgun Metagenomics From Crohn's Disease Patients. , John L. Krapohl

An Exploration of Factors that Impact Uptake of Human Papillomavirus Vaccines , David Samuel Redd

Genomic Analysis and Therapeutic Development of Bacteriophages to Treat Bacterial Infections and Parasitic Infestations , Daniel W. Thompson

The Use of Nucleotide Salvage Pathway Enzymes as Suitable Tumor Targets for Antibody-Based and Adoptive Cell Therapies , Edwin J. Velazquez

Comparative Sequence Analysis Elucidates the Evolutionary Patterns of Yersinia pestis in New Mexico over Thirty-Two Years , M. Elizabeth Warren

Regulation of T Cell Activation by the CD5 Co-Receptor and Altered Peptides, Characterization of Thymidine Kinase-Specific Antibodies, and Integrating Genomics Education in Society , Kiara Vaden Whitley

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Evolution and Selection: From Suppression of Metabolic Deficiencies to Bacteriophage Host Range and Resistance , Daniel Kurt Arens

Identifying Sinorhizobium meliloti Genes that Determine Fitness Outcomes , Alexander B. Benedict

Pushing the Limits of SARS-CoV-2 Survival: How SARS-CoV-2 Responds to Quaternary Ammonium Compounds and Wastewater , Benjamin Hawthorne Ogilvie

Mutations in HIV-1 Vpr Affect Pathogenesis in T-Lymphocytes and Novel Strategies to Contain the Current COVID-19 Pandemic , Antonio Solis Leal

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Staphylococcus aureus Metal Acquisition in Milk and Mammary Gland Tissue , Shalee Killpack Carlson

Antimicrobial Peptide Development: From Massively Parallel Peptide Sequencing to Bioinformatic Motif Identification , Alexander K. Erikson

A Comparison of Chikungunya Virus Infection, Dissemination, and Cytokine Induction in Human and Murine Macrophages and Characterization of RAG2-/-γc-/- Mice as an Animal Model to Study Neurotropic Chikungunya Disease , Israel Guerrero

The Effects of Immune Regulation and Dysregulation: Helper T Cell Receptor Affinity, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Cancer Risk, and Vaccine Hesitancy , Deborah K. Johnson

Identification of Genes that Determine Fitness, Virulence, and Disease Outcomes in Mastitis Associated Eschericia coli , Michael Andrew Olson

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Investigation of Thymidine Kinase 1 in Cancer Progression , Eliza Esther King Bitter

Ribosomally Synthesized and Post-Translationally Modified Peptides as Potential Scaffolds for Peptide Engineering , Devan Bursey

Bioaerosols Associated with Evaporative Cooler Use in Low-Income Homes in Semi-Arid Climates , Ashlin Elaine Cowger

PAS Kinase and TOR, Controllers of Cell Growth and Proliferation , Brooke Jasmyn Cozzens

Regulation of Immune Cell Activation and Functionby the nBMPp2 Protein andthe CD5 Co-Receptor , Claudia Mercedes Freitas

Characterizing Novel Pathways for Regulation and Function of Ataxin-2 , Elise Spencer Melhado

Interactions Between the Organellar Pol1A, Pol1B, and Twinkle DNA Replication Proteins and Their Role in Plant Organelle DNA Replication , Stewart Anthony Morley

SNFing Glucose to PASs Mitochondrial Dysfunction: The Role of Two Sensory Protein Kinases in Metabolic Diseases , Kai Li Ong

Characterizing the Function of PAS kinase in Cellular Metabolism and Neurodegenerative Disease , Jenny Adele Pape

Isolation, Characterization, and Genomic Comparison of Bacteriophages of Enterobacteriales Order , Ruchira Sharma

Isolation, Genetic Characterization and Clinical Application of Bacteriophages of Pathogenic Bacterial Species , Trever Leon Thurgood

Investigation of Therapeutic Immune Cell Metabolism , Josephine Anna Tueller

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Innate Immune Cell Phenotypes Are Dictated by Distinct Epigenetic Reprogramming , Kevin Douglas Adams

Bacteriophages for Treating American Foulbrood and the Neutralization of Paenibacillus larvae Spores , Thomas Scott Brady

Methods for Detection of and Therapy for Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae , Olivia Tateoka Brown

The Diversity Found Among Carbapenem-Resistant Bacteria , Galen Edward Card

Exploration of Antimicrobial Activity in Natural Peptides and High-Throughput Discovery of Synthetic Peptides , Emma Kay Dallon

Gut Microbiota Regulates the Interplay Between Diet and Genetics to Influence Insulin Resistance , Jeralyn Jones Franson

The Antimicrobial Properties of Honey and Their Effect on Pathogenic Bacteria , Shreena Himanshu Mody

The Ability of Novel Phage to Infect Virulent Bacillus anthracis Isolates , Hyrum Smith Shumway

Galleria Mellonella as an Alternate Infection Model for Burkholderia Species and a Comparison of Suspension and Surface Test Methods for Evaluating Sporicidal Efficacy , Joseph D. Thiriot

The Clinical Significance of HPRT as a Diagnostic and Therapeutic Biomarker for Hematological and Solid Malignancies , Michelle Hannah Townsend

Biomarker Analysis and Clinical Relevance of Thymidine Kinase 1 in Solid and Hematological Malignancies , Evita Giraldez Weagel

Hospital and meat associated Staphylococcus aureus and Their Biofilm Characteristics , Trevor Michael Wienclaw

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Comparison of Cytokine Expression and Bacterial Growth During Periparturient and Mid Lactation Mastitis in a Mouse Model , Rhonda Nicole Chronis

Influence of Epstein-Barr Virus on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Development and the Role of Depression on Disease Progression , Caleb Cornaby

The Effects of Nucleosome Positioning and Chromatin Architecture on Transgene Expression , Colton E. Kempton

Phosphate Signaling Through Alternate Conformations of the PstSCAB Phosphate Transporter , Ramesh Krishna Vuppada

Acetobacter fabarum Genes Influencing Drosophila melanogaster Phenotypes , Kylie MaKay White

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

The Path to Understanding Salt Tolerance: Global Profiling of Genes Using Transcriptomics of the Halophyte Suaeda fruticosa , Joann Diray Arce

Genetic and Biochemical Analysis of the Micrococcin Biosynthetic Pathway , Philip Ross Bennallack

Characterizing Interaction Between PASK and PBP1/ ATXN2 to Regulate Cell Growth and Proliferation , Nidhi Rajan Choksi

The Activity of Alkaline Glutaraldehyde Against Bacterial Endospores and Select Non-Enveloped Viruses , Justen Thalmus Despain

The Role of Viral Interleukin-6 in Tumor Development of Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Lymphomas , Rebecca A. Fullwood

The Role of the Transcriptional Antiterminator RfaH in Lipopolysaccharide Synthesis, Resistance to Antimicrobial Peptides, and Virulence of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis and Yersinia pestis , Jared Michael Hoffman

A CryAB Interactome Reveals Clientele Specificity and Dysfunction of Mutants Associated with Human Disease , Whitney Katherine Hoopes

The pmrHFIJKLM Operon in Yersinia pseudotuberculosis Enhances Resistance to CCL28 and Promotes Phagocytic Engulfment by Neutrophils , Lauren Elizabeth Johnson

Characterization of Five Brevibacillus Bacteriophages and Their Genomes , Michael Allen Sheflo

Analysis of Nucleosome Isolation and Recovery: From In Silico Invitrosomes to In Vivo Nucleosomes , Collin Brendan Skousen

Human Herpesvirus 6A Infection and Immunopathogenesis in Humanized Rag2 -/-γc-/- Mice and Relevance to HIV/AIDS and Autoimmunity , Anne Tanner

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Identifying and Characterizing Yeast PAS Kinase 1 Substrates Reveals Regulation of Mitochondrial and Cell Growth Pathways , Desiree DeMille

The Detection and Molecular Evolution of Francisella tularensis Subspecies , Mark K. Gunnell

Isolation and Host Range of Staphylococcus aureus Bacteriophages and Use for Decontamination of Fomites , Kyle C. Jensen

The Antioxidant and DNA Repair Capacities of Resveratrol, Piceatannol, and Pterostilbene , Justin Ryan Livingston

High Salinity Stabilizes Bacterial Community Composition and Activity Through Time , Tylan Wayne Magnusson

Advancing Phage Genomics and Honeybee Health Through Discovery and Characterization of Paenibacillaceae Bacteriophages , Bryan Douglas Merrill

Specialized Replication Operons Control Rhizobial Plasmid Copy Number in Developing Symbiotic Cells , Clarice Lorraine Perry

Gene Networks Involved in Competitive Root Colonization and Nodulation in the Sinorhizobium meliloti-Medicago truncatula Symbiosis , Ryan D. VanYperen

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Snf1 Mediated Phosphorylation and Activation of PAS Kinase , Bryan D. Badal

Studies of PhoU in Escherichia coli: Metal Binding, Dimerization,Protein/Protein Interactions, and a Signaling Complex Model , Stewart G. Gardner

Pharmacologic Immunomodulation of Macrophage Activation by Caffeine , Ryan Perry Steck

Analysis of Nucleosome Mobility, Fragility, and Recovery: From Embryonic Stem Cells to Invitrosomes , Ashley Nicolle Wright

Enhancing Protein and Enzyme Stability Through Rationally Engineered Site-Specific Immobilization Utilizing Non-Canonical Amino Acids , Jeffrey Chun Wu

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Thymidine Kinase 1: Diagnostic and Prognostic Significance in Malignancy , Melissa Marie Alegre

Promoter Polymorphisms in Interferon Regulatory Factor 5 , Daniel N. Clark

Modulators of Symbiotic Outcome in Sinorhizobium meliloti , Matthew B. Crook

Evidences for Protein-Protein Interactions Between PstB and PhoU in the Phosphate Signaling Complex of Escherichia coli , Kristine Dawn Johns

Identification of the Binding Partners for HspB2 and CryAB Reveals Myofibril and Mitochondrial Protein Interactions and Non-Redundant Roles for Small Heat Shock Proteins , Kelsey Murphey Langston

A Quadruplex Real-Time PCR Assay for the Rapid Detection and Differentiation of the Burkholderia pseudomallei Complex: B. mallei , B. pseudomallei , and B. thailandensis , Chinn-woan Lowe

The Role of Nuclear BMP2 in the Cell Cycle and Tumorigenesis , Brandt Alan Nichols

Nuclear BMP2 and the Immune Response , Daniel S. Olsen

Hypersaline Lake Environments Exhibit Reduced Microbial Dormancy , Joshua Christopher Vert

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Characterization of the Cellular and Organellar Dynamics that Occur with a Partial Depletion of Mitochondrial DNA when Arabidopsis Organellar DNA Polymerase IB is Mutated , John D. Cupp

Effect of Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress on Different Cancer Cell Types , Gaytri Devi Gupta Elera

Effects of Chemical Stimulation and Tumor Co-Incubation on Macrophage Activation and Aggressiveness, Measured Through Phagocytosis and Respiratory Burst , Bo Marcus Gustafsson

Loss of the Lipopolysaccharide Core Biosynthesis rfaD Gene Increases Antimicrobial Chemokine Binding and Bacterial Susceptibility to CCL28 and Polymyxin: A Model for Understanding the Interface of Antimicrobial Chemokines and Bacterial Host Defense Avoidance Mechanisms , Cynthia S. Lew

Partial Characterization of the Antimicrobial Activity of CCL28 , Bin Liu

Characterizing the Role of HspB2 in Cardiac Metabolism and Muscle Structure Using Yeast and Mammalian Systems , Jonathan Paul Neubert

Humanized Mice as a Model to Study Human Viral Pathogenesis and Novel Antiviral Drugs , Freddy Mauricio Sanchez Tumbaco

Transgene Delivery via Microelectromechanical Systems , Aubrey Marie Mueller Wilson

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Antioxidants in Cancer Research and Prevention: Assay Comparison, Structure-Function Analysis, and Food Product Analysis , Andrew Robert Garrett

Characterization of the Role Nuclear Bmp2 (nBmp2) Plays in Regulating Gene Expression , Fialka Grigorova

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Effects of Diabetic State and Gender on Pro-Inflammatory Cytokine Secretion by Human Macrophages Infected with Burkholderia pseudomallei , Annette J. Blam

Organellar DNA Polymerases Gamma I and II in Arabidopsis thaliana , Jeffrey M. Brammer

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A.C. Matin, Stanford Medicine microbiologist who sent E. coli to space, dies at 83

The microbiologist, on the faculty for nearly half a century, studied a wide range of topics, including antibiotic resistance, cancer, and bacteria as an agent for cleaning up toxic chemicals.

May 10, 2024 - By Jennifer Welsh

A.C. Matin, PhD, an emeritus professor of microbiology and immunology at Stanford Medicine, died April 14 at home. He was 83.

“A.C. had a long and impressive career at Stanford Medicine, with his research spanning many decades and topics,” said Lloyd Minor , MD, dean of the Stanford School of Medicine and vice president for medical affairs at Stanford University. “His research is indicative of his curiosity about so many subjects including the human body and our environment. He is leaving behind a wide array of foundational discoveries in many aspects of microbiology.”

Matin joined the Stanford Medicine faculty in 1975 and worked in the microbiology and immunology department for almost 50 years. His work covered many different fields, making a real contribution to each of the directions he took, said his colleague Peter Sarnow , PhD, a professor in microbiology and immunology.

Matin’s research focused on various microbiology and biotechnology-related topics, including antibiotic resistance, cancer research, biomolecular engineering, biofilms, cellular resistance and virulence, the biology of microgravity, and the use of bacteria to clean up toxic chemicals.

“He was unafraid to move his work in new directions,” Sarnow said. “I was totally, pleasantly surprised one day when he told me that he was working on human cancer — it had nothing to do with bacteria.”

Matin was a mentor to many international postdoctoral and graduate students. Over the years, more than 30 graduate students, 70 postdoctoral fellows and 60 undergraduate students conducted research in his lab.

“A.C. was very committed to his research and his team of graduate students and postdocs,” his wife and collaborator, Mimi Matin, said. “He spent time working every single day, even after retirement. He committed his whole life to scientific research, and that curiosity did not just end when he became an emeritus faculty member.”

Wide-ranging interests

One of Matin’s most prominent projects was studying how bacteria respond to being starved of nutrients. He also studied the mechanisms of antibacterial resistance of bacterial biofilms and how bacteria respond to antibacterials in zero gravity, collaborating with NASA to send E. coli to space in a microsatellite.

“Matin branched out into different areas of research later in his career,” said Denise Monack , PhD, the Martha Meier Weiland Professor in the School of Medicine and chair of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. “His focus on bacterial stress responses yielded critical insights into bacterial behavior under changing conditions. These findings had important implications for understanding bacterial growth in both human hosts and natural environments.”

A.C. Matin was known on campus for his fashionable style. Courtesy of the Matin family

He also experimented with using bacteria to clean up environmental pollutants: He engineered bacterial strains to be more effective at destroying carcinogens as well as heavy metals and radiation.

In his later years, he focused a cancer therapy project on delivering new drugs using bubbles containing RNA. He discovered and improved on an enzyme that is metabolized by the body into a cancer drug that can also be used in imaging.

Matin retired in 2021 but kept up with the literature in his field and gave several panel discussions. “Science was his thing,” Mimi Matin said.

“He loved being part of scientific research, contributing to it and watching his mentees go on to do their own things,” his niece Sara Cipani said. “He loved engaging with the community of scientific research.”

Half a century at Stanford

Matin was born in 1941 in Delhi, India. When he was 6, during the Partition of India, his family left everything they had to make a new life in Pakistan, where they became successful businesspeople, Matin’s family members said.

Matin attended the University of Karachi, earning his bachelor’s in microbiology in 1960 and a master’s in microbiology in 1962. For two years after graduation, he was a lecturer in microbiology at St. Joseph’s College for Women in Karachi.

He earned a PhD in microbiology in 1969 from the University of California, Los Angeles, where he met his wife.

The couple moved to the Netherlands, where Matin was a senior lecturer in microbiology at the State University of Groningen. They lived there for four years before Matin joined the faculty at Stanford Medicine’s microbiology department in 1975. He became a full professor in 1992.

“A.C. liked the vigor of the science here very much; that’s why he stayed,” Mimi Matin said. “But he also loved the natural beauty of campus.” He enjoyed daily walks around the campus and took great pride in his garden, never tiring of the blooms each season would bring.

An international cultured man

Around campus, Matin was known as a fashionable and worldly man — a polite person with an outstanding sense of style. “I think it’s fair to say he was the best-dressed man in the department — maybe even at the school,” Sarnow said. “He looked like someone who should be walking around central Paris.”

The look fit his lifestyle, as the couple had a second home in Paris, where he took nightly walks, admiring the lights on the streets. They shared a deep interest in culture — enjoying beautiful art, music and literature. In Paris they visited museums and attended concerts and the opera.

Matin loved poetry and had an impressive memory for verse, his family said; he sprinkled aptly chosen lines from his favorite writers throughout his conversations and correspondence. His favorite writers include Oscar Wilde, Bertrand Russell and Franz Kafka; his favorite composer, Gustav Mahler.

His family said he wasn’t a fan of idle chatter. Instead, he engaged people he met, whether bank tellers or exterminators, in real conversations. He enjoyed talking to people with different views in discussions about world events, politics and the human condition — and always approached these topics with care, love and respect.

“He was comfortable speaking to people with different beliefs than him,” Cipani said. “It was a type of sparring, but always good-natured. And it was never contentious — he just enjoyed the debate.”

Matin was a Fulbright fellow from 1964 to 1971. In 1995, he was elected a fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology; in 2011, he was elected an associate fellow of the American Aerospace Medical Association.

Matin is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mimi K. Matin of Stanford, California, and his older brother, Shamim Ahmad, and younger sister, Naeema Aftab, who live in Pakistan. An elder brother, S.M. Ahmad, preceded him in death.

Jennifer Welsh Jennifer Welsh is a freelance writer

About Stanford Medicine

Stanford Medicine is an integrated academic health system comprising the Stanford School of Medicine and adult and pediatric health care delivery systems. Together, they harness the full potential of biomedicine through collaborative research, education and clinical care for patients. For more information, please visit med.stanford.edu .

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John Freeman Faculty Teaching Award – Ronald “Chris” Mackenzie, PhD, FRSB

Dr. Chris Mackenzie - John Freeman Faculty Teaching Award winner

Ronald “Chris” Mackenzie, PhD, FRSB , assistant professor in the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics , is the 2024 recipient of the John H. Freeman Award for Faculty Teaching.

Chosen by the senior class, the John H. Freeman Award recognizes McGovern Medical School’s outstanding basic science faculty member. The winner of this award, which was established by university funds and named in Freeman’s honor, must exemplify enthusiasm and drive toward effective teaching, have a personal interest in students’ problems and educational goals, and set an example that serves as a high standard for students.

Mackenzie previously won the Freeman Award in 2015 and 2017.

“Receiving any award is always a great honor, but receiving an award from our graduating students is the greatest award that can be bestowed on any teaching faculty,” Mackenzie said.

Mackenzie connects his teaching philosophy to an old adage credited to the Greek philosopher Plutarch, in that “a mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.” This is a mantra he brings to his teaching while trying to make learning as exciting as possible for his students.

“In many ways, I am shocked [the students] still remember me. I usually teach only first- and second-year students,” Mackenzie said. “ By now, the graduating class has already been put through the trials of STEP-1&2, their third year in the clinics, their match, and so on. The idea that my name still comes up after all they have been through is incredibly gratifying.”

While reflecting on his time as a student, Mackenzie noted that he never really had any teaching mentors of his own.

“I had a lot of teachers in high school and college that I really didn’t like,” Mackenzie said. “I think of them as my anti-mentors. I definitely wanted my teaching methods to be the opposite of theirs.”

However, Mackenzie credits his freshman chemistry teacher with a lesson that has stuck with him his entire career and reminds him to teach with a philosophy attributed to Albert Einstein to: “make things as simple as possible, but no simpler.” The lesson compared chopping firewood to the breaking of covalent bonds. Wood, like covalent bonds, is much tougher to cut or break, when going across the grain.

“This kind of example, relating the simple task of chopping wood to the strength of chemical bonding, not necessarily the easiest idea to grasp conceptually, has always stuck with me. I like to bring these simple, real-world teaching concepts into the classroom.”

Mackenzie is a facilitator for Problem-Based Learning (PBL) for first-and second-year students at McGovern Medical School as well as Team-Based Learning for first-year students while serving as a member of the Team-Based Learning Review Committee. Additionally, he teaches Professionalism and Ethics to students at the Medical School and Ethics to students at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences .

In 2022, Mackenzie was honored with the inaugural Rebecca Lunstroth Faculty Service Award from the McGovern Center for Humanities and Ethics.

Upon receiving the award, Mackenzie thanked Elizabeth Green and Erin Bodeker for being his first port of call whenever something arises that he doesn’t know. Additionally, he thanked Litao Wang, Med, EdD , who works to resolve issues and encourages faculty to keep up with the latest teaching modalities, as well as Denise Pinales , Erin Davis , and Yolanda Bell for their work in running the JAMP Summer Research Program. Finally, Mackenzie thanked Michael Lorenz, PhD , Herbert L., and Margaret W. DuPont Chair in Biomedical Science, for understanding the importance of high-quality education for the MD and PhD students at McGovern Medical School and encouraging him to be deeply involved in the school’s educational mission.

Previous winners of the John H. Freeman Award for Faculty Teaching include: Claire Hulsebosch, PhD, 2023, 2021, 2018; Han Zhang, MD , 2022, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2008, 2006; Phillip Carpenter, PhD , 2020; MacKenzie , 2017, 2015; Dawnelle Schatte, MD, 2014; Joanne Oakes, MD, 2012; Elizabeth Hartwell, MD , 2007; Margaret O. Uthman, MD , 2011, 2009, 2005, 2001, 1999, 1997; Kent Heck, MD , 2004, 2002; Norman Weisbrodt, PhD , 2003; Barry Van Winkle, PhD , 2000, 1998; Marsha L. Eigenbrodt, MD, MPH , 1996; Ron C. Philo, PhD , 1995; Harley D. Sybers, MD, PhD , 1994, 1992, 1990; Frank W. Booth, MD , 1993; and Karmen L. Schmidt, PhD , 1991.

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At ‘Food as Medicine’ Conference, Microbiome Fuels Big Conversations

Food is part of modern life in so many ways: It’s a natural resource, an industrial product, a lifestyle component, a cultural experience. Inside our bodies, food is also a key influence on the gut microbiome – the community of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms living inside us that affect our physical and mental health.

The microbiome was key to the conversation at a new Georgetown conference, “Food as Medicine: Microbiome, Fermentation, and Medicinal Food,” hosted May 9-10 by the Department of Microbiology & Immunology . Leaders from academia, industry and government came together in person and over Zoom to talk about where our food comes from, how it affects our bodies and minds, and how we can confront societal challenges around food and nutrition.

Conference co-chairs (from left) Chiyo Kobayashi, Tomoko Steen and Marian Flaxman.

The conference was the brainchild of Tomoko Steen, a microbiomics researcher, government adviser, and director of Georgetown’s M.S. in Biomedical Science Policy & Advocacy and M.S. in Biohazardous Threat Agents & Emerging Infectious Diseases programs. With a growing body of research tying microbiome health to overall well-being, Steen wanted to foster discussion of the subject among experts from different areas. With the help of her conference co-chairs, consultant Chiyo Kobayashi and nutrition policy consultant and health and science communicator Marian Flaxman, she drummed up a diverse and receptive slate of speakers. Government officials, soy sauce and miso manufacturers, chefs, nutrition educators, professors and Biomedical Graduate Education (BGE) students found common ground in the pursuit of better health through understanding the microbiome.

“Dr. Steen and I are both very passionate about breaking down silos and merging conversations,” said Flaxman, who graduated from the M.S. in Biomedical Science Policy & Advocacy program in 2023. “Some of the speakers that I’ve brought in today are chefs and fermentation specialists, and to bring them into the same room as NIH scientists – just very thrilling.”

Takashi Sato, president of San-J soy sauce company and an eighth-generation soy sauce maker, responds to a question from Georgetown professor Hakima Amri.

With so many perspectives on food, conference presenters covered a range of topics, including microbiome health, food policy, microbiome-boosting fermented foods, healthy diets, and education. Attendees learned about connections between the microbiome and a range of diseases; school meal programs for children from low-income families; the centuries-old history of Japanese soy sauce, and the koji mold fermentation process used to brew the condiment; nutritional and cultural aspects of the gut-healthy Mediterranean diet; and how to make kombucha at home, among many other presentations.

BGE students also presented at the conference. Six master’s students gave “lightning talks” on their science and policy research, exposing public health threats and highlighting opportunities for better health policies.

Georgetown student Noah Peter presents on “Sugar, Obesity, and the Future of U.S. Public Health.”

“I thought it was a great opportunity to kind of showcase what we’ve been doing through the capstone from last semester,” said Noah Peter, a Biohazardous Threat Agents & Emerging Infectious Diseases student who spoke about sugar, obesity, and the future of public health in the United States. “It just gives me an opportunity to advocate for something that I truly believe in.”

Steen said she hopes to make the conference an annual event to continue to encourage people from different academic and professional backgrounds to learn from one another about the microbiome, food and health.

Sakeenah Shabazz, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) senior policy adviser on food and nutrition, delivers a keynote presentation on government programs promoting equitable access to nutritious food.

Conference attendees assemble jars of koji mold, which is used to brew soy sauce, miso and sake.

Georgetown students Jack Bryan and Lamice Bakhit give a talk promoting medically tailored meals for veterans.

2024 Convocation Recognizes Exceptional Graduate Students

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Weill Cornell Medical College Graduat School 2024 convocation

Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences highlighted students in the Class of 2024 for their academic achievements during its convocation ceremony on May 15.

The ceremony honored students who are graduating with their master’s degrees, as well as those who earned special awards and prizes for their accomplishments in research, scholarship and service.

In addition to celebrating students, the ceremony also honored graduate school faculty. Dr. Cynthia Leifer (Ph.D. '99), professor of microbiology and immunobiology at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University, won the 2024 Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences Award of Distinction. This award honors alumni who have demonstrated exceptional achievements and outstanding contributions to biomedical research and education.

2024 Award Winners

Distinguished Student Commencement Speaker Award

Chloe Lopez-Lee, Neuroscience Program; Mentor, Li Gan, Ph.D.

David P. Hajjar Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring Award

Jason Lewis, Ph.D.

Professor, Pharmacology Program

Member, Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute

Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Teaching and Mentoring Award

Theresa Lu, MD, Ph.D.

Member, Immunology Program, Hospital for Special Surgery

Co-Director, Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program

Pharmacology Teaching and Mentoring Award

Kristen Pleil, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Pharmacology Program, Weill Cornell Medicine

Julian R. Rachele Prize for significant research published in a scientific journal

David J. Falvo, “A reversible epigenetic memory of inflammatory injury controls lineage plasticity and tumor initiation in the mouse pancreas.” Developmental Cell 58, 2959–2973 (2023). Mentor: Rohit Chandwani, M.D., Ph.D.

Albert S. Agustinus, “Epigenetic dysregulation from chromosomal transit in micronuclei.” Nature 619, 176–183 (2023). Mentors: Yael David, Ph.D. and Samuel F. Bakhoum, M.D., Ph.D.

Student Service Award

Kathleen Mills, Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program

In recognition of her mentorship of high school and undergraduate students and her service to the IMP Program and WCGS.

Student Diversity Award

Yasmine Issah, Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program

In recognition of her outstanding dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse community.

Vincent du Vigneaud Research Symposium Awards

First-Year Poster Presentation Awards

First Place:

Peyton Carpen , “Impact of Calorie Restriction on Bone Marrow Stromal/Stem Cell Lineage Differentiation” (PI: Baohong Zhao, PhD)

Ziqi (Christine) Yu , “Treating Triple Negative Breast Cancer in Brain Metastasis using P-selectin Targeting Nanoparticles” (PI: Daniel Heller, PhD)

Second Place:

Sarah Sheridan , “Effect of NKD1 Knockdown on Colorectal Cancer Cell Proliferation” (PI: David Scheinberg, MD, PhD)

Carolyn Ton , “Living Origami: How Cell Behaviors Drive Neural Tube Closure” (PI: Jennifer Zallen, PhD)

Austin Varela , “Harnessing Intrinsic Variability within the Tumor Microenvironment to Explainably Determine Cellular Communication” (PI: Ashley Laughney, PhD)

Second Year and Above Poster Awards

Hailey Goldberg , “A Nanoparticle-Based Platform for the Treatment of Senescence-Related Pathologies” (PI: Scott Lowe, PhD)

Moniquetta Shafer , “What Makes Methylmalonic Acid? Identifying and Characterizing the Functions of an Understudied Oncometabolite-Producing Enzyme” (PI: John Blenis, PhD)

Patrick Wallisch , “Interrogating the CD47-SIRP Axis in Chronic T Cell Stimulation to Translate Novel GvHD Therapies” (Professor David Scheinberg)

Rachel Payne , “Development of a PSMA Heterogeneous Tumor Model for Targeted Radiotherapy.” (PI Jason S. Lewis, Ph.D.)

Oral Presentation Awards

Madison Darmofal , “Deep Learning Model for Tumor Type Prediction using Targeted Clinical Genomic Sequencing Data” (PI: Quaid Morris, PhD)

Stephen Ruiz , “A Redox Stress-Modulated Phospholipase A2 Remodels Lipids to Regulate Ferroptosis in Cancer” (PI: Daniel Heller, PhD)

Celeste Parra Bravo , “Human iPSC 4R Tauopathy Model Uncovers Modifiers of Tau Propagation” (PI: Li Gan, PhD)

Weill Cornell Medicine Graduate School of Medical Sciences 1300 York Ave. Box 65 New York, NY 10065 Phone: (212) 746-6565 Fax: (212) 746-8906

Parasitic worm likely playing role in decline of moose populations

A parasitic worm that can infest the brains of moose appears to be playing a role in the decline of the iconic animal in some regions of North America.

Moose populations have been dwindling for years across the country due to many contributing factors, but new research at Washington State University has found the impact of Eleaophora schneideri, also known as the arterial worm, has likely been underestimated.

Researchers examined recently deceased Shiras moose in Idaho between March 2020 and July 2022. While the parasitic roundworm E. schneideri was not detected in any of the animals found in north Idaho, it was present in 10 of the 20 adult moose studied in the southeastern portion of the state. Nine of the infected not only had adult worms in their major arteries but their brains were littered with microfilariae, the microscopic early life stage of the worm.

"The microfilaria are just scattered throughout their brains, and even though the damage from each is miniscule, they're basically shot-gunning the whole brain," said Kyle Taylor, a pathologist at WSU's Washington Animal Disease Diagnostics Laboratory. "We hypothesize the cumulative effects of large numbers of microfilariae in the brain may be associated with increased morbidity or chance of mortality, with mortality more likely in cases with larger numbers of worms."

The research, published in the Journal of Wildlife Diseases , is part of a three-year collaborative project on moose mortality with the Idaho Fish and Game and Dr. Janet Rachlow of the University of Idaho, College of Natural Resources.

E. schneideri is primarily transmitted by tabanid flies like horse and deer flies. Mature worms can measure as long as 4.5 inches and are most commonly found in the carotid arteries in the area of the head and neck, where they will mate and release microfilariae into the bloodstream.

Infection can lead to a condition known as elaeophorosis in which the host's circulation system is disrupted. It can advance to blindness, abnormal behavior, damage to the ears and muzzle, and death. Infections have been reported in a variety of species, including deer, domestic and wild sheep, and elk. Unlike moose, mule deer and black-tail deer are considered to be natural hosts and typically show minimal to no signs of infection.

There are currently no tests available to determine whether a live moose is infected with the parasite.

Taylor's team examined 61 recently deceased moose in Idaho. No evidence of infection was found in northern Idaho moose or juveniles, but 10, or half, of the adult moose studied in southeastern Idaho were infected. Of those 10, three had damage to the tips of their ears, a condition attributed to E. schneideri infection. Four exhibited abnormal behavior prior to their deaths, possibly due to neuropathology associated with the parasite.

Based on their findings and that of other research, Taylor suspects the subtle but widespread damage to the brain caused by the worms may be leading to reduced fitness of the moose, which could increase risk of predation, and, sometimes, cause death.

"We really need to have an understanding of all the issues related to moose population decline, and this parasite appears to be a factor," Taylor said.

The study also explored the geographic spread of E. schneideri in Idaho. The parasite was found to be widespread in southeastern Idaho, aligning with its prevalence in neighboring regions of Montana and Wyoming. The distribution coincides with populations of mule deer.

Christine Haake, a pathology resident at WADDL and graduate student in the Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, helped to lead the study. Field sampling was performed and directed by Dr. Logan Weyand, who was a graduate student at the University of Idaho during the project. WADDL pathologist Chrissy Eckstrand and parasitologist Laura Williams assisted with the research.

Pests and Parasites
Wild Animals
Microbiology
Veterinary Medicine
Endangered Animals
Garter snake
Icelandic horse
American Mink
Hip dysplasia

Story Source:

Materials provided by Washington State University . Original written by Devin Roktya. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

Christine J. E. Haake; Kyle R. Taylor; Logan K. Weyand; Eric T. Van Beek; Chrissy D. Eckstrand; Laura B. A. Williams; Stacey Dauwalter; Nicole L. Walrath; Hollie M. Miyasaki; Shane B. Roberts; Mark A. Hurley; Janet L. Rachlow. Geographic Distribution and Neuropathology of Elaeophora schneideri in Moose (Alces alces shirasi) in Idaho, USA . J Wildl Dis , 2024 DOI: 10.7589/JWD-D-23-00112

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