My research interests are in the area of the genetic basis of virulence and host preference in members of the MTBC. I am particularly interested in the transcriptional regulation of virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance determinants in Mycobacterial species. I have worked for over 20 years with pathogenic Mycobacteria and my current group are funded by the BBSRC, DEFRA and the International Veterinary Vaccinology Network.
My research interests are in the area of developing novel diagnostics for mycobacterial infections primarily tuberculosis in people and cattle, as well as Johne’s disease. The technology I have developed uses bacteriophages to target mycobacteria, resulting in detection within hours compared to the several weeks it takes to culture. Using these methods I hope to gain a better understanding of the pathophysiology of mycobacterial infections, as well as providing an alternative tool for detection. I also have an interest in the role of badgers in the spread of TB – as part of a Defra funded project. I am currently funded by a BloomsburySET (Research England) research fellowship.
Stuart is our Senior Lecturer in Wild Animal Health and his current roles include being the pathway leader for the BSc/MSci Biological Sciences (Wildlife Health Sciences), and the tracking rotation leader for our final year veterianry students' zoo tracking programme. His main interests are in the relevance of disease processes to conservation, and how this changes as existing populations become more fragmented.
