Chemical inhibition of biofilm formation

Project description

Bacteria can exist in a phase called a biofilm where they live enclosed in a self-produced polymeric matrix. When in this form they have an enhanced chance of survival as they can protect the bacteria from attack by the immune system, confer resistance to antibiotics by decreasing uptake and increasing efflux, and contribute to bacterial survival and overall pathogenicity. This project will screen a chemical library and naturally derived compounds looking for molecules that simultaneously inhibit efflux and biofilm formation.

• Honours Scholarship of $1500 is available upon discussion.

Further information

I am the Foundation Program leader of the new ARC Training Centre for Biofilms. This will be an auxiliary project to that program and students involved will get the benefits from being part of this Centre.

Assumed knowledge

Theoretical knowledge of molecular biology and microbiology will be required. Hands-on lab-based training will be provided but experience and skills in aseptic techniques will be assumed.

Note: You need to register interest in projects from different supervisors (not a number of projects with the one supervisor).
You must also contact each supervisor directly to discuss both the project details and your suitability to undertake the project.