David Sychantha

Dr. David Sychantha is an Assistant Professor at the University of Waterloo, leading the Sychantha Lab focused on bacterial cell wall homeostasis and antibiotic resistance mechanisms. His research integrates structural biology, enzymology, and chemical biology to elucidate how pathogenic bacteria modify cell surfaces to evade immune systems and resist antibiotics. Key interests include autolysin regulation, metallo-β-lactamase inhibition, and peptidoglycan biosynthesis.

Education:

• PhD in Molecular & Cellular Biology (2018), University of Guelph
• MSc in Molecular & Cellular Biology (2013), University of Guelph
• BSc in Microbiology (2011), University of Guelph
• CIHR Fellow (2020-2023), McMaster University

Research Focus:

The lab investigates biochemical pathways governing bacterial cell wall remodeling, with emphasis on autolysins and metallo-β-lactamases. Current projects target:

• Structural and functional analysis of enzymes involved in cell wall homeostasis
• Mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in carbapenem-resistant pathogens
• Design of novel inhibitors targeting virulence factors

Awards:

• CIHR Fellowship Award (2020-2023)
• Michael G. DeGroote Fellowship Award (2018-2019)

Lab & Collaborations:

The Sychantha Lab actively collaborates on structural enzymology projects and currently accepts graduate student applications via the University of Waterloo admissions portal. Research outputs include high-impact studies on antibiotic adjuvants, enzyme inhibition mechanisms, and bacterial pathogenesis strategies.