One of the contexts we are interested in is 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. Our long-term 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 also interested in the general principles governing microbial interactions and antibiotic treatment failure across distinct types of chronic infections. We are exploring, for example, how microbial-secreted redox-active metabolites can modulate the way polymicrobial communities respond to and evolve resistance to antibiotics across different spatial scales.

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.