Using and developing atomic force microscopy (AFM) and nano-IR to understand the physics of bacterial growth and antimicrobial resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing problem in medicine as it could lead to common

infections causing serious illness or even death. Understanding the emergent properties of living

systems at a molecular level will play an important role in tackling this problem, and “physics”

approaches are likely to be critical. In this project we will develop the application of a new, state-of-

the-art nano-IR instrument just purchased in Sheffield to map for the first time how cell wall

chemistry and mechanics change during bacterial growth and how this is influenced by AMR, linking

cell wall architecture 1 , cell physiology and resistance.

1. Pasquina Lemonche et al, (2020) “The architecture of the Gram-positive bacterial cell wall”

For informal enquiries plese contact Jamie Hobbs: [Email Address Removed]