The Mekalanos laboratory is engaged in the analysis of bacterial virulence and functional genomics. The goal of these studies is to understand how pathogenic bacteria grow, evade the host immune system and ultimately cause disease. A variety of organisms are currently studied in the laboratory including several Vibrio species and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Our research encompasses many topics, including:
- Environmental sensory systems and genetic modulation
- Mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer in the evolution of bacterial pathogens
- Bioinformatic analysis to discover novel virulence factors, antigens, and essential gene products
- Ecological factors that control emergence and endemic properties of bacterial pathogens
- Biochemical function of bacterial virulence factors
We use genetic, genomic, proteomic, biochemical, and chemical biological approaches to explore these topics. Where possible, the knowledge gained in our studies is applied to the development of more effective vaccines and small molecule therapeutics. We have also discovered novel toxins and protein secretion systems that may be partly responsible for in vivo virulence which are currently under investigation. The Mekalanos Lab is a member of the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics at Harvard Medical School.
Interested in Joining?
Please contact us if you are interested in joining the Mekalanos Lab. Post-doctoral positions are available on an individual case basis, while graduate students should first consult with Harvard Graduate School. Application to a graduate program is required of students before contacting the lab for consideration. Please check back often, as this section will become updated as positions become available. Thank you!
Please use this form to communicate any scheduling, invitations, travel, reimbursements, publications, etc.
All correspondences are handled by executive assistant Shannon Humphreys. Thank you!