Current Team

My primary interests are in mucin glycoprotein biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology and their involvement in diseased and applications to therapeutics.

My work in the lab focuses primarily on mucin separations and purifications.

The goal of my research is to understand how mucin glycans limit the virulence of pathogens and support beneficial microbes within diverse mucosal environments. Leveraging these insights into mucin-microbe interactions, I aim to develop mucin-inspired therapies for the targeted delivery of bioactive glycans.

My research focus is on unraveling the mechanisms by which mucus supports commensal bacteria. Specifically, I aim to uncover mucin epitopes that promote the retention and survival of beneficial species. With this, I hope to create synergistic formulations that combat dysbiotic states for improved health.

I am interested in exploring the influence of mucin glycan structure, presentation, and diversity on the management of environmental toxins and pathogens. Specifically, I am working to streamline the chemical synthesis of mucin glycan derivatives and glycopolymer displays with which to probe these effects.

My research is focused on how mucins tune immune activity in various mucosal environments. Specifically, I aim to study the mechanisms underlying the changes in immune cell functional states induced by mucin glycans.

I am interested in how mucins and mucin glycans interact with and influence epithelial cells in various parts of the body. This includes how mucins and host glycans are involved in regulating and preventing pathogenic infections and diseases.

I am interested in the bidirectional interactions between mucins and microbial communities within the gut, and ultimately how those interactions contribute to healthy or diseased states.

I am interested in understanding how mucins influence various factors of microbial virulence, with a specific emphasis on the role of these interactions in promoting healthy states.