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Bacteria and viruses greatly outnumber us, and their profound effects on our well-being cannot be overstated. However, to have any impact, genes encoded by bacterial and viral genomes must be expressed. Our group studies molecular mechanisms and regulation of RNA synthesis, the first step in gene expression, by bacterial and viral RNA polymerases.

We use classical methods of biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, and bioinformatics in rigorous but innovative experimental designs and couple these strengths with a worldwide network of collaborators to answer fundamental questions and make conceptual breakthroughs in the understanding of gene expression and seek to apply our research advances to discovery of novel antibacterial and antiviral agents.


We are part of Ohio State’s Department of Microbiology, Center for RNA Biology, and Infectious Diseases Institute.