Ian Ster, M.S. Student, Biochemistry

Thesis Advisor: Dr. Cheryl Whistler

Research Topic: Mutations mapping to functional domains of a hyrid histidine kinase promote a marine squid-microbe symbiosis.

My research focuses characterizing a hybrid-histidine kinase and its role is in the beneficial symbiosis between Vibrio fischeri and its host, Euprymna scolopes, the Hawaiian Bobtail squid. These kinases are used by bacteria to sense and respond to new environments through phosphorelay systems. By defining the role of this kinase in this symbiosis, we will hope to uncover adaptive mechanisms that symbionts, and bacteria in general, use to infect new hosts.​