The Gilbert lab studies host-microbe and microbe-microbe (bacteria and virus) interactions in the female reproductive and urinary tracts. Our goals are to understand polymicrobial dynamics at urogenital mucosal surfaces and to determine the mechanisms underlying the associations between certain microbiome states and adverse health outcomes. We employ a variety of small animal and cell culture infection models and analysis of human clinical specimens in our current projects investigating urinary tract infections, bacterial vaginosis, and HPV-associated cancers. We also have an exciting collaborative project with a bioengineering lab developing novel probiotic approaches to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections. We are enthusiastic about building a collaborative and fruitful research team.

I'm eager to support trainees and help them discover and reach their research and professional goals. Please contact me to learn more about currently available projects or if you have your own research questions in the area of urogenital microbiology that you would like to pursue with us.