Sensory control of nematode-microbe and microbe-microbe interactions
MISSION
To understand molecular bases of pattern recognition as the essential first step in determining organismal response to other organisms.
We utilize Caenorhabditis elegans, a nematode lacking traditional pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), to understand pathogen recognition via non canonical PRRs. We utilize multidisciplinary approaches to identify microbe associated molecular patterns from pneumonia pathogens and their sensing by G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) of C. elegans. We focus on microbial odors as microbe associate molecular patterns (MAMPs).
We utilize Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a Gram-negative bacterium, to understand how it utilizes its large genomic repertoire of histidine kinase sensors to identify and compete with other microbes, in the context of respiratory infections including pneumonia.
FUNDING
2022-2027: Wellcome Trust/DBT India Alliance Senior Investigator Funding for 'Microbe-derived olfactory signals as regulators of lipid metabolism, innate immunity, and longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans'
2022-2024: Indo-French Center for Advanced Scientific Research (CEFIPRA)
OPENINGS
Fully funded position available from March 2024. Apply. More information at