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Kelsie Nauta

Kelsie NautaMicrobiology Graduate Program
Email: kelsie-nauta@uiowa.edu

Mentor: Craig Ellermeier, PhD

Year Entered Into Program: 2016


Research

The overall goal for my graduate work is to define the signal transduction network that controls the activation of the extra-cytoplasmic function (ECF) σ factor called σp. ECF σ factors are specialized bacterial transcription factors that regulate alternatively transcribed genes in response to various stress signals. σP activates the transcription of genes that confer β-lactam resistance in the Bacillus cereus species in response to β-lactams. We aim to determine 1) the signal for σP activation, 2) the receptor that senses the signal, and 3) the proteases required for activation of σP. By defining these components, we hope to elucidate an overarching mechanism for the control of β-lactam resistance in these species. Furthermore, our work may inform the future study of novel ECF σ factors.


Training

B.Sc, Biology, Grand Valley State University (2012-2016)