Regulation and Physiological Roles of Translational Fidelity

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PROJECT SUMMARY The goal of this project is to enhance the diversity of the biomedical research workforce by training a Ph.D. student from an underrepresented minority group (African Americans) and facilitate her development towards an independent scientist in the field of microbiology and pathogen-host interactions. The student will receive rigorous training to study pathogen-host interactions, protein synthesis, bacterial genetics, and microbial stress responses. Translational fidelity is critically maintained throughout evolution to ensure accurate protein synthesis. However, the role of translational fidelity in pathogen-host interactions remains largely unknown. The proposed training aims at studying how translational fidelity affects Salmonella-macrophage interactions. During the training, the student will (a) develop important research skills covering bacterial genetics, single-cell analyses, cell culture, molecular biology, and biochemistry, (b) enhance her skills of critical reading, thinking, presentation, and writing, and (c) strengthen her ability of proper experimental design and development of hypothesis-driven research. In addition, the student will have the opportunities to further career development by engaging in presenting research at local/national/international meetings, mentoring students, and taking professional training courses. The outcomes of the proposed training will help elucidate the role of translational fidelity in pathogen-host interactions using Salmonella as a model, further the student’s development as an independent microbiologist, expand the student’s professional network, and promote diversity in the workforce of microbiology and infectious diseases.