Core expertise

Microbial metabolism
Ecology
Global change and conservation
Microbial genetics
Evolutionary biology
Microbial persistence

Biography

Chris’ research explores how bacteria persist under adverse environmental conditions. He’s interested in understanding the metabolic processes that enable aerobic bacteria to remain energised and survive stress in these dormant states.

His environmental research explores the physiological and ecological significance of microbial metabolism of reduced gases, i.e. hydrogen, methane, and carbon monoxide. He is exploring the significance of trace gas scavenging and other hydrogen-dependent processes in relation to microbial community structure and greenhouse gas cycling. His medical research is centred on identifying new drug targets for the treatment of tuberculosis.