Dr Matthew Robinson
Research Fellow

Profile

I am interested in the interactions of pathogens with their hosts and vectors, particularly bacteria of human and animal importance. I currently study two-component systems (TCS) and their role in virulence and niche adaptation of pathogenic bacteria, in particular members of the Burkholderia cepacia complex and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria can cause serious life-threatening pneumonia in cystic fibrosis patients and are highly drug-resistant.

To study the interactions and effects of two-component systems I employ a variety of microbiological and molecular techniques including:

  • Disruption and deletion of specific TCS genes
  • A variety of phenotypic assays
  • Gene expression studies using RT-PCR, qPCR, RNA-seq and ChIP-seq
  • Protein expression and biochemical pathways.
 Previously, on an MRC-funded project, I have helped identify key TCSs that mediate virulence in B. cenocepacia, and have identified the genes targeted by these TCSs. My current project (BBSRC-funded) investigates the phoPQ/pmrAB TCSs in P. aeruginosa and aims to understand the biochemical pathways within and between these TCSs, and their impact on quorum sensing.

Qualifications

2003: B.Sc. (hons) Marine & Freshwater Biology, University of Wales, Aberystwyth.
2005: M.Sc. Veterinary Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine.
2009: Ph.D. Investigating the dynamics of vector-borne pathogens during ecto-parasite feeding, University of Bristol.

Contact details


Email
Internal tel5177
Tel+44 (0) 1392 725177

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