Research

Cell envelope design dynamics and bacterial morphodynamics

We explore how bacteria maintain cell wall integrity and homeostasis under internal pressure and how antibiotics disrupt this balance to induce mechanical failure and cell death. We combine tools from cell mechanics, structural biology, and computational modeling to study bacterial growth, division, and resistance. Using kinetic Monte Carlo simulations, molecular dynamics, and microbiology experiments including single cell imaging, we aim to investigate how stress drives cells into dormant states or triggers phase separation. By identifying mechanical weak points in the bacterial envelope, we are looking forward to inform the design of novel antimicrobial strategies.

AI-guided design of biomimetic antimicrobial agents

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria pose a critical threat to modern medicine, highlighting the urgent need for new and effective antibacterial agents. One promising strategy is to draw inspiration from nature and develop biomimetic antimicrobial materials capable of targeting microbial infections, including resilient biofilms. By focusing on the entire bacterial cell envelope and examining phase behavior in solvent environments, we aim to rationally optimize polymer structures for both antimicrobial potency and selectivity. Leveraging machine learning-guided design algorithms combined with molecular simulations, we will systematically explore how sequence, molecular shape, and functional group composition influence antimicrobial efficacy. 

Harmful Microorganisms in Indian Freshwater Systems

Indian rivers and lakes are increasingly affected by microbial contamination due to rising temperatures, nutrient loading, industrial discharge, and seasonal variability in rainfall. Events such as cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) and bacterial outbreaks are becoming more frequent, yet early detection and forecasting remain limited by complex environmental and biological dynamics.  Our aim is to integrate environmental data- such as temperature, precipitation, nutrient levels, and flow dynamics, into simple to use predictive frameworks capable of forecasting microbial outbreaks. A core component of the study involves analyzing the ecological interactions between bacteria, phytoplankton, and water body conditions to better understand the drivers behind bloom formation and microbial surges.