Iain Duggin
Professor
ithree institute
University of Technology Sydney
Australia
Biography
Iain Duggin is an ARC Future Fellow (2017-2020) and leads the Microbial Cell Shape and Structural Dynamics group located at the ithree (infection, immunology and innovation) institute, University of Technology Sydney.
Research Interest
Our research focuses on understanding prokaryotic cell dynamics, including prokaryotic morphogenesis, cytoskeleton and the cell cycle. Our aim is to understand gene and protein function at the molecular level, and how these function to effect changes in microbial cell structure and shape in response to environmental conditions. Microbial cells are impressively dynamic, and quick to respond to environmental changes. We are particularly interested in the functions of tubulin-like proteins that control cell morphology and division in archaea (Haloferax volcanii, found in salt lakes) and bacteria (uropathogenic Escherichia coli, found in urinary tract infections), and cytoskeletal proteins in Helicobacter pylori (found in stomach inflammation, ulcers and cancer). Understanding of prokaryotic cell dynamics can spark innovative ideas in the medical and biotechnology sectors.
