Stephanie Smith

When bacterial cells come into contact with one another in hosts, on particles, or in biofilm, they often exchange DNA through a process called “horizontal gene transfer”. Using symbiotic bacteria isolated from fish and squid, my research focuses on how horizontal gene transfer drives the evolution of symbiotic partnerships. Specifically, I am interested in understanding how DNA acquired via horizontal gene transfer can allow bacteria to colonize new hosts. This work will be critical for identifying new host-colonization factors and will provide insights as to how symbiotic partnerships may evolve in nature.