
welcome to the Meirelles lab
Our research focuses on how microbial communities, particularly bacterial pathogens, interact with and impact the tissues they colonize.
We are interested in the dynamics of chronic lung infections, where pathogens and host cells co-adapt over time. Our goal is to understand how bacteria grow, survive, and interact with lung cells, driving disease progression.
To study these interactions, we use engineered tissue culture and organoid systems, combining advanced live imaging, high-throughput omics, and controlled physiological experiments. These tools, along with clinical data and patient samples, allow us to explore the long-term effects of chronic lung infections on both the host and pathogen.
Ultimately, our goal is to uncover new insights that will drive innovative treatment strategies to improve clinical outcomes for patients suffering from chronic lung diseases.
We are part of the CCIB at MGH and CISID, a network of Boston labs working together to address urgent challenges in infectious disease research. We are also associated with the Broad Institute, where we aim to develop collaborative projects, including transcriptomic and transposon-based studies through the CISID Microbial ‘Omics Collaborative.
Finally, the most important part of science is the people doing it! We strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where lab members can conduct creative, innovative science while preparing for impactful careers in STEM.
Explore our science, and reach out if you are interested!
Photos credit: Isabel J. Latorre





