Evolution and adaptation of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial populations

It is generally believed that evolution of resistance occurs as a series of random single point mutations. However, we believe that emergence of new characters occurs as multiple mutations probably in sub-populations as a consequence of fluctuating stresses caused by lethal substances, such as antibiotics, and that these populations are so limited in size that the selection process is greatly affected by chance (stochastic).

We will combine expertise in bacteriology, molecular biology, microbial epidemiology, mathematical modelling and phylogeny to study the evolution and adaptation of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial populations.

Focus will be on resistance in staphylococci and Pseudomonas because of the major clinical problems with resistance in these bacteria.

The results are expected to be useful in predicting appearance of new antimicrobial resistance problems, guide intervention strategies for the future, lead to new treatment strategies and possible also lead to industrial development of new biotechnologies based on evolutionary concepts.