Personal Statement
I am a Lecturer in Molecular Microbiology in the Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology (CIMI) at the University of Liverpool. My research applies structural biology and enzymology to understand the molecular mechanisms that underpin bacterial virulence, with a particular focus on the multidrug-resistant pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii.

I trained as a Biochemist at the University of Birmingham, where I obtained an MSci before continuing there for my PhD under the supervision of Professor Andrew Lovering. My doctoral research investigated key enzymes from a “living antibiotic” bacterium, sparking my interest in the relationship between protein structure and biological function. Following my PhD, I joined the University of St Andrews as a postdoctoral researcher in the group of Dr Clarissa Czekster, where I continued exploring enzyme mechanisms, whilst delving into inhibitor design.

In my current role, my group uses a multidisciplinary approach that integrates structural biology, chemical biology, and microbiology to dissect the molecular basis of A. baumannii virulence. By linking protein structure to function, we aim to identify new ways to disrupt infection pathways and ultimately develop inhibitors that can inform future anti-virulence strategies against antimicrobial resistance.

Research Overview
My research group explores the structure and function bacterial proteins, primarily associated with bacterial virulence. We draw on techniques from structural biology (mainly X-crystallography), biochemistry and microbiology to understand the underpinning mechanisms of virulence. Our group works collaboratively across disciplines, integrating expertise in infection biology, medicinal chemistry and multi-omics techniques.

Our attention is currently focussed on Acinetobacter baumannii, which is the leading cause of nosocomial infections worldwide, where its high resistance to antibiotic treatments and ability to cause lethal infections, has led to its categorisation as a “critical priority” pathogen by the WHO. In light of this, novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to address this problematic pathogen. Our group is interested in targeting bacterial virulence factors; specifically reducing pathogen fitness and its ability to cause disease, without exerting a high selection pressure for resistance or affecting commensal bacteria. However, a key limitation in using this approach against A. baumannii, is the current lack of understanding concerning the molecular mechanisms underpinning virulence. Hence, we are interested in characterising virulence factors and their molecular mechanisms, with the aim of developing inhibitors. We are currently pursuing metal acquisition and utilisation machinery, biofilm assembly and secreted lytic enzymes as targets of our investigations.

We are always interested in hearing from motivated students with a relevant background, who is keen to explore the structural basis of bacterial virulence and contribute to the global fight against antimicrobial resistance. To discuss projects please contact Dr Harding. Further information about our group can be found at the Harding Lab. Please see the News Page for updates about new project opportunities.