We are a bacteriology lab studying the molecular bases that enable pathogenic bacteria to endure, acclimate, and prevail in the unwelcoming conditions of their host. Our research seeks to understand how these microbes regulate protein synthesis (translation) in response to interactions with their host, especially during colonization and infection. 

We focus on the function of a family of translation factors known as aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRS). These enzymes are indispensable for life as they are responsible for the accurate and efficient translation of the genetic code during gene expression. Our aim is to understand the biological role of aaRSs during host-pathogen interactions as potential infection factors and druggable targets using a combination of biochemical, biophysical, molecular, cellular, multi-omics, and computational approaches.