Major Professor: Rybenkov
Email: charlesbergen@ou.edu
Hometown:
Spring, TX
High School:
Klein Collins High School
Education:
B.S., Marine Biology, Texas A&M University Galveston
My interest in biochemistry comes from my previous undergraduate studies in marine biology, where I researched the effects of oil on the interplay between phytoplankton and associated bacteria. From these experiences, I learned about the role chemistry has in shaping various biological outcomes.
Currently, I am working in Dr. Rybenkov's laboratory, researching computational applications for antibiotic drug discovery. My most recent project involves delineating the chemical properties of efflux pump inhibitors, substrates, and avoiders using supervised machine-learning techniques. From this work, we hope to understand the chemical traits that define each class of compound to aid further drug optimization.
Additionally, I am studying the effects of efflux pump and gacS (an important lifestyle and virulence regulator) deletion in Pseudomonas aeruginosa using RNA-Seq. Results from this study will elucidate unique changes in gene expression attributable to specific deletions. Expanding our current understanding of the role gacS and efflux pumps have in P. aeruginosa lifestyle and virulence during infection.
Following graduation, I would like to either continue my research in a private setting for a pharmaceutical company or in an academic setting as a postdoc.
Publications, Presentations & Awards
