Research Interests
We are interested in studying the molecular mechanisms of antibiotic resistance. Mycobacterium abscessus, is a rapidly emerging nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in patients with cystic fibrosis and underlying lung damage is considered an ‘antibiotic nightmare” due to its intrinsic resistance to the majority of FDA approved antibiotics. M. abscessus therefore offers a unique opportunity to explore the potential of drug resistance mechanisms encoded by bacteria. In addition, we are also interested in studying transcriptional networks involving sigma factors and their regulators in mycobacterial physiology.
Specific projects include:
- Systems level understanding of changes that accompany exposure of M. abscessus to antibiotics with a specific focus on the WhiB7-dependent pathway.
- Mechanisms of HflX & ABCF mediated resistance to macrolide-lincosamide antibiotics.
- Mechanisms of HelR mediated resistance to rifamycins.
- Identification of effectors that confer unique profiles of drug resistance.
- Screening of small molecule libraries for inhibitors of identified targets.
- Exploring phage lysins as an alternate therapy for M. abscessus infections.
To learn more about our projects and the people behind them, visit our Research Projects and People page.
Join our lab!
Feel free to contact Pallavi.ghosh@health.ny.gov for more information about our laboratory.
Assistant Research Scientist - JR-0001895
Applications due 12/5/25
Health Research, Inc. is seeking an Assistant Research Scientist to work within the Wadsworth Center, Division of Genetics. The Assistant Research Scientist will assist with research projects. The research explores mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in mycobacteria. The incumbent will be part of an interdisciplinary research team that combines microbial genetics, biochemistry, molecular and cell biology to understand the basis of extreme drug resistance in M. abscessus. The goal of this grant-funded research is to obtain a systems level understanding of the response of mycobacteria to various antibiotics.
The incumbent will join a highly interactive and social laboratory that will further scientific training in state-of-the-art instruments, methods and analyses. Other opportunities for professional development include seminars, group discussions and presentations of findings to Wadsworth Center colleagues.
This position will be part of a dynamic team serving the Wadsworth Center’s mission in the New York State Department of Health’s efforts to protect and promote the health of New York’s citizens. Come be a part of Science in the Pursuit of Health®!