Research Objectives and Career Goals
The overarching goal of my research project is to identify the mechanism by which N. gonorrhoeae senses metals, specifically zinc and manganese, through the transcriptional regulator Zur and alters expression of targetable virulence factors such as zinc and manganese transporters.
Research Training Plan and Objectives
- Master molecular techniques such as RNA-seq, RT-PCR, cloning, and protein kinetic assays.
- Independently design the experiments required for the application of these techniques.
Proficiency in the technical application of these techniques is required for me to gain further training in host-microbial interactions as a future post-doctoral fellow. While my doctor training focuses on pathogenesis from the perspective of the pathogen, I intend for my post-doctoral training to focus on the host response to infection. A post-doctoral fellowship will provide the extensive training necessary to achieve my long-term goal of becoming an independent research scientist studying both host and pathogen.
Research Mentorship Plan
I am directly mentored by Dr. Cynthia N. Cornelissen with the support of Dr. Alison Criss. Dr. Cornelissen is an expert in gonococcal genetics and physiology and has extensive experience studying the gonococcus in the context of various metal conditions in vitro and in the context of nutritional immunity in the host. Dr. Criss is an expert in gonococcal transcriptomics and metal-dependent regulation both in culture and in host cells, specifically in neutrophils. Her extensive knowledge of nutritional immunity from the host perspective informs the experimental design of my research project.
Career Development Objectives
- Gain experience as an independent researcher
- Gain active mentoring experience
Career Development Plan
I have independently designed the experiments outlined in my current research strategy and am solely responsible for optimizing and completing them under Dr. Cornelissen’s advice. I will communicate my findings to the public and other members of the field through the publication of the primary data. As independent researchers often work with others, it is vital to gain active mentoring experience. I have previously trained junior graduate and undergraduate students in molecular techniques such as protein purification, cloning, ELISA, and metal-limited bacterial culture. Additionally, I plan to take on a teaching role as an academic at a research-intensive institution. I will continue to train junior trainees in molecular techniques to prepare me for a career as an experienced educator.