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My research focuses on the molecular mechanism underlying bacterial pathogenesis and phage-host interactions, with a particular emphasis on structural biology. I am particularly interested in uncovering new mechanisms of phage-mediated bacterial subversion, with potential applications in phage therapy and antimicrobial development.

<B>Bacteriophage Biology and Host Interactions</B>

Bacteriophages are key players in bacterial ecology and evolution, yet their mechanisms of host interaction and subversion remain poorly understood. A major focus of my work is using cryoelectron microscopy, X-ray crystallography, and mass spectrometry to identify and characterise phage-host interactions throughout the lifecycle of bacteriophage infection and replication.

<B>Bacteriophages as a resource</B>

A key challenge in phage therapy is ensuring that phages are both effective and safe for clinical use. By better understanding phage-host interactions, we can engineer phages with desirable features, such as enhanced specificity for target bacteria and reduced potential for off-target effects, while removing undesirable traits, such as the ability to transfer virulence or antimicrobial resistance genes. Additionally, by leveraging parts of the phage host hijacking machinery, we can develop novel classes of antimicrobials that disrupt bacterial processes in unique ways. My research aims to develop a toolkit for phage engineering, enabling the creation of specialised phages tailored to specific clinical or industrial applications.