lab photo

Byron Barksdale Jr.

North Platte, Nebraska

lab techResearch interests

I am studying the ability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) to increase its antibiotic resistance in the presence of other microorganisms.  Pa has several membrane associated multidrug efflux pumps that can be regulated by small molecules.  I am currently screening Pa with our large collection of clinical and environmental isolates to determine how polymicrobial interactions may affect the regulation of these efflux pumps.

Personal Background/Interests

I grew up in North Platte, NE and arrived in Austin to attend the University of Texas in 2007.  I graduated in May 2012, receiving a Bachelor of Science in both Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology.  I also completed the TIP program, studying Christianity in American Politics.  I have performed research on drug addiction with the Duvachelle Lab as well as research in molecular serotyping of Salmonella Typhimurium for the Molecular Sciences Branch of The Texas Department of State Health Services.  I am interested in pursuing a career as a physician.  In my free time, I teach yoga through the University’s UTRecSports Fit/Well Program and at Yoga Yoga Austin and perform aerial acrobatics with Sky Candy Austin and Brass Ovaries Pole Dancing.