welcome to
chowdhury lab
Department of Microbiology Miami University OhioSomewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known...
Carl Sagan astronomer
What we do
The Chowdhury lab explores how enteric pathogens sense and adapt to dynamic host environments to fine-tune their virulence, survival, and transmission. We focus on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern host-pathogen interactions, particularly within the gastrointestinal tract. Using a combination of microbiology, molecular genetics, and immunological tools, we investigate how pathogens integrate environmental signals to balance fitness and virulence, and how host immune responses shape this dialogue. Our ultimate goal is to uncover novel therapeutic targets and strategies to combat infectious diseases by deciphering the complex communication between microbes and their hosts.
Meet the team
We are just getting started and we're looking for curious, motivated people to join us! We're building a collaborative, hands-on group excited about microbiology and host-pathogen interactions. If you're an undergrad looking for research experience or someone who loves asking questions about how microbes and the immune system interact, we'd love to hear from you!
Rimi Chowdhury
Microbiologist 🦠 + cat lover 🐱Rimi earned her Masters and PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Calcutta, India, where she took a deep dive into the world of infectious
diseases, uncovering the diverse invasion strategies of Salmonella. She then moved to Cornell University for her postdoctoral work with Dr. Craig
Altier, where she explored the fascinating connection between intestinal fatty acids and the genetic regulators that control Salmonella virulence – a
blend of basic science and translational research aimed at better understanding and tackling gut pathogens.
When she’s not unraveling the mysteries of enteric pathogens, you can
find Rimi curled up with a true crime novel or volunteering at local cat rescue centers and spay/neuter clinics.