Alex Orlek
DPhil Student
Bacterial plasmids are extra-chromosomal genetic elements, which can act as efficient vectors of antibiotic resistance. As a DPhil student, I use bioinformatic methods to analyse bacterial whole genome
sequencing data, with the aim of gaining insight into the epidemiology of plasmid-mediated antibiotic resistance. Ultimately, I am interested in understanding the role of plasmids in spreading resistance between humans and livestock. The project is funded by the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit.